Cohesive Soil

Definition

Cohesive soil is a type of soil, such as clay, whose particles stick together due to cohesive and adhesive forces.

Purpose

The purpose of understanding cohesive soil is to manage its properties in construction and engineering projects. Cohesive soils can affect the stability of foundations and slopes, requiring specific handling and treatment.

Examples of Use

• In foundation engineering, cohesive soils must be properly analyzed to prevent settlement and ensure stability.
• During excavation, cohesive soils may require special equipment and techniques to manage their stickiness and plasticity.
• Agricultural practices may consider the cohesive properties of soil for irrigation and tilling.

Related Terms

• Clay: A fine-grained cohesive soil known for its plasticity when wet.
• Soil Compaction: The process of increasing soil density and strength by reducing air gaps, often more challenging with cohesive soils.
• Adhesive Forces: The attraction between soil particles and other materials.

Notes

Cohesive soils can pose challenges in construction due to their tendency to retain water and change volume, leading to potential issues with stability and drainage.