Moisture Variation in Expansive Subgrade Through Field Instrumentation and Geophysical Testing

Abstract

Seasonal climatic variations in subgrade soil affect pavement responses and can reduce pavement serviceability. In addition to causing shrinkage and swelling in expansive subgrade, variations in moisture suction may alter the material properties of soil, which ultimately affect pavement performance. The current study monitored the seasonal variation of subgrade moisture content, rainfall, and pavement deformation of a section over State Highway 342, in Dallas, Texas. Moisture sensors were installed at different depths up to 4.5 m. The soil was found to be highly plastic clay (CH) in the selected site. In addition to acquiring real-time moisture data from sensors, geophysical testing was also conducted on the slope of the pavement. Electrical Resistivity Imaging (ERI) was carried out at the slope of the instrumented pavement section to observe the moisture flow at the edge of the pavement. Based on the field monitoring data, moisture variation ranged from 5% to 14%, with higher moisture contents correlating with rainfall events. While moisture sensors provided point information, resistivity imaging yielded a continuous portrayal of subsurface moisture flow. Furthermore, rainfall-associated deformation of the pavement was monitored. Based on the monitored data, it was observed that pavement deformation varied with rainfall. A total deformation of 38 mm was recorded over the monitoring period.