William Araujo, Gaby Ruiz

Abstract: This study assessed the key factors influencing the applicability of prediction methods and the development of regional models for expansive clayey soils in Marcavelica and Paita Baja, Piura. Through sample characterisation tests and correlation analysis, the study focused on understanding how soil properties relate to expansion parameters. Both areas are dominated by montmorillonite clay, which exhibits medium to high expansion potential. In Marcavelica, the plasticity index, liquid limit, and dry unit weight were identified as the most influential factors affecting the expansion percentage and expansion pressure. In Paita Baja, the shrinkage limit, fines content, and activity significantly influenced the expansion percentage, while expansion pressure was correlated with unit weight and void ratio. The findings emphasise the importance of a preliminary evaluation of local factors before applying prediction models, as the influence of parameters can vary even with the same mineralogical composition of clay, which is otherwise expected to exhibit similar behaviour.

Keywords: Expansive soils, clay characterisation, expansion prediction.

Date Published: September 25, 2025
DOI: 10.11159/ijci.2025.011

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