Study on Libyan Silt Property and Suggestions on its Application in Subgrade Construction

Abstract

The basic physical and mechanical properties of Libyan soil are analyzed through some experiments, including direct shear test, grading analysis test and compression test. According to the test results, the soil is named as low liquid limit silt featured by weak strength, high compressibility and permeability, which directly influences sub-grade stability, durability and pavement’s usability. In order to solve these problems, measures are discussed from two aspects, namely, soil improvement and construction method. The strength of the soil is apparently increased by the cement and lime adding, and the compressibility is decreased at the same time. And the rising height of capillary water reducing and protection forms for silt soil slope are also proved to be effective in the subgrade construction.