Drying effect on the microstructure of compacted salted silt

In this study, the drying-induced microstructure evolution of compacted silt with different salinities is investigated using mercury intrusion porosimetry and environmental scanning electron microscope. The pore size distribution (PSD) specimens near optimum (w = 17%) exhibited bimodal characteristics. Upon drying 8%), PSD changed to a trimodal pattern appearance new nano-pore population. This suggested development nano-fissures, which could occur in clay fraction at interface between particles silt/sand grains due shrinkage. With further 3%), nano-pores disappeared recovered characteristics, suggesting that nano-fissures created were enlarged until they became micro-fissures. salinity seemed decrease frequency micro-pores enhanced mechanical strength salted soil by aggregation resulting from compression diffuse double layer possible cementation effect produced precipitated salt. However, was relatively low, owing to: (a) low (15·7%) low-activity minerals (illite, chlorite kaolinite); (b) specific surface area (24 m 2 /g), limited on layer.