Characterization of micaceous sand for investigation of a subsea mass movement

Abstract

A recent project involved a shallow slope failure of a deposit of loose sand and a site investigation and laboratory test program was initiated to investigate the cause of the slide and evaluate the likelihood of any further movement. The sand was found to have an elevated mica content, which affected the density, compressibility and shearing behavior. Existing correlations between relative density and cone resistance were evaluated to better understand the in-situ density of the soil. Undrained triaxial tests were used to investigate the static strength and material anisotropy, while static and cyclic direct simple shear tests helped study behavior during undrained cyclic loading. The test results are summarised and key conclusions are presented which are of relevance for sites worldwide where micaceous sands are prevalent. © Springer Science + Business Media B.V. 2010.