Innovation in Treating Gypsum Soils to Enhance the Durability of Irrigation Infrastructure Using Modern Technique

Abstract

Gypsum soils present a significant geotechnical challenge, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions dependent on irrigation projects. Although they possess favorable mechanical properties in their dry state, they lose their strength and become prone to collapse upon wetting, threatening the sustainability of hydraulic structures such as irrigation canals and dams. This research proposes an innovative solution to this problem using a modern technique based on Cutback Asphalt, aiming to enhance the soil's bearing capacity and prevent collapse.

Soil samples from two different gypsum regions in Syria were studied. Their physical and mechanical properties were analyzed by systematically varying the gypsum content. As an innovative part of the study, Cutback Asphalt treatment was applied to the soil with its natural gypsum content, and its effect on key properties was evaluated, including Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS), California Bearing Ratio (CBR), and collapse and swelling potential.

The results indicated that the addition of Cutback Asphalt led to a significant improvement in soil properties. The Unconfined Compressive Strength peaked at an optimal content of 6% for sandy soil (SM) and 8% for clayey soil (CH). The CBR value also improved substantially, reaching optimal values at 8%for sandy soil and 10%for clayey soil. Furthermore, the collapse potential and swelling susceptibility decreased markedly with increasing Cutback Asphalt content, confirming the effectiveness of this technique in enhancing soil durability.

This research highlights the potential of Cutback Asphalt as an innovative and effective solution for stabilizing gypsum soils. Its application can contribute to enhancing the durability and load-bearing capacity of irrigation infrastructure, extending its service life. We recommend implementing this technique in agricultural and hydraulic projects in arid regions. We also hope this study will serve as a foundation for future research exploring other treatment methods and comparing them with our findings.