Relationship between the microstructural and mechanical behavior of lateritic soils
structure; mechanical behavior, SWCR, compressibility, MIP, SEM
The term structure is used to define the combination of fabric (micro morphology), that is, the arrangement of particle components, bonding, and interparticle forces that are not purely frictional in nature. These factories include inhomogeneities, layers, distribution and orientation of particles that can influence hydraulic response, compressibility and shear strength. In this study, a microscopic look is focused on the soil on the physical characteristics that can influence the hydromechanical behavior. To reach the objectives, an experimental program was defined to investigate aspects of soil behavior in different structural conditions (mud, compacted and undisturbed). Thus, from SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) and MIP (Mercury Intrusion Porosimetry) tests, together with mechanical and hydraulic tests made it possible to predict the behavior of a lateritic soil located in Brasília-DF.