The effect of Variations in Pore Fluid Properties on the Physical and Micro-structural Characteristics of Bentonite

Considering the importance of micro-structural characteristics of clayey soils on their behavior, the main objective of this research is to investigate the effect of pore fluid properties variations on clayey soils and their physical and micro-structural changes. For experimental purposes, soil-electrolyte solutions with the ratio of 1:50 prepared. A series of physical experiments, as well as, SEM and XRD experiments performed to investigate any variation on the soil behavior due to the changes in pore fluid properties. The results of the physical experiments indicate that, with increasing the electrolyte concentration, one will be faced with a change on the soil behavior including its interaction with water. The SEM pictures indicate that with the presence of sodium ions at low concentration, first soil takes a dispersive structure. With a further increase in salt concentration, and due to an increase in attractive forces in comparison with repulsive forces within clay particles, a flocculated structure forms. In addition to the above, during this process, a change will happen on the intensity and basal spacing of clay mineral. It is concluded that the main reason for a noticeable change in physical behavior of soil can be attributed mainly to the significant change in electrostatic forces of clay particles.