Soil Parameters at Critical State for Ho Chi Minh Clay

Abstract

Ho Chi Minh City, a major economic hub in Southeast Asia, has witnessed significant growth, with numerous infrastructure projects demanding a thorough understanding of the underlying soil characteristics. However, unlike the extensively studied Bangkok clay, the critical state parameters of Ho Chi Minh clay have not been rigorously explored, despite its significance for geotechnical design. This study presents a novel investigation into the critical state behavior of Ho Chi Minh clay, focusing on its anisotropic properties, which sharply contrast with the isotropic behavior observed in Bangkok clay. Using an extensive series of triaxial tests in compression and extension, this research uncovers the unique stress–strain responses of Ho Chi Minh clay and its implications for construction in the region. The observed anisotropy in Ho Chi Minh clay is attributed to distinct microstructures related to the clay’s mineral composition and depositional history. The novelty of this study lies in its comparative approach, revealing significant differences between the geotechnical properties of Ho Chi Minh and Bangkok clays, and contributing valuable new insights to global geotechnical engineering. By establishing critical state parameters, this research fills a vital gap in understanding the geotechnical behavior of Ho Chi Minh clay, offering essential data for future infrastructure projects in the region.