| This thesis presents the results of a laboratory investigation of the strength and deformation characteristics of the natural normally consolidated clay known as San Francisco Bay Mud. Specimens trimmed from undisturbed block samples of this soft, moderately sensitive, silty clay have been exposed to initial isotropic and at-rest (K{dollar}sb{lcub}rm o{rcub}{dollar}) stress conditions, and loaded under three-dimensional undrained conditions, with and without rotation of principal stress axes. The stress-strain, pore pressure and strength characteristics of the clay were investigated. The tests were performed using a torsion shear apparatus and cubical (true) triaxial apparatus. For comparison, the strength characteristics of the same natural clay, loaded in conventional triaxial compression tests, using specimens trimmed at different orientations relative to the direction of deposition, were also investigated.; The experimental data are analyzed, discussed and presented in plots and diagrams appropriate for indicating the type of behavior obtained in the tests. An evaluation of the observed behavior in terms of cross-anisotropic elasticity and Hooke's law at low stress levels, plasticity theories, and the shape of failure surfaces is presented.; The study provides the experimental basis required for development of a more generalized stress-strain relationship for natural clays. |
