Effect of Treated and Raw Wastewater on the Behavior of Unsaturated Soil
ABSTRACT
Many tests have been carried out to investigate the effect of mixing Karak clay soil with treated and raw domestic wastewater on the behavior of unsaturated soil. The specimens have been prepared by mixing the soil with three kinds of water; distilled water, treated wastewater and raw domestic wastewater. A specific experimental programme has been planned and completed on a range of degree of saturation and different normal stress. The shear strength test and swelling test results using distilled water have been compared with the presence of contamination in Karak clay. The test results show that there is not too much difference between the unsaturated shear strength tests on specimens that mixed with distilled water and that mixed with treated wastewater. Also, the use of treated water will not affect the swelling of the soil. On contrast, raw wastewater has a great influence on the behavior of unsaturated soil.
The results obtained from this study are expected to be of great benefit and practical use for carrying out stability analysis of structures like embankments and foundations supported by clay particularly in a country that suffers from water shortage like Jordan. However, experimental evidence to support this study is still limited.
