Investigation of geotechnical properties of weathered marble as an alternative embankment material for roadway development in Norzagaray, Bulacan

ABSTRACT: Weathered marble, also known as “marmol”, is commonly sourced in quarries around Norzagarary, Bulacan. The primary objective of this study was to conduct a comprehensive geotechnical characterization in facilitating the effectiveness and efficiency of this material for embarkments in road infrastructure. By subjecting the marble to test ranges in accordance with ASTM standards, an assessment of its physical and mechanical properties was conducted. The visual description of samples varies from fine to medium gravel, with some samples containing silly sand, particle angularity of the soil ranges from subangular to subrounded and absence of plasticity in all the soil samples suggests that they are all non-cohesive. Based on the specifications outlined by the USCS and AASHTO standards, respectively, the proctor test results showed that the compaction characteristics and value for embankments and foundations are good, very stable, and has good bearing value, ranging from good to excellent for use as embankment material. Shear strength properties obtained from the direct shear test showed trajectories for all mix proportion specimens relatively similar, with higher shear stresses corresponding to larger effective normal stresses. Load bearing capacity test results indicate that pure marble can be utilized as a material for the Base and Subbase layers in road construction, with a rating of good in accordance with the DPWH standards. It discloses that the weathered marble exhibited excellent compaction behavior, yielded friction angles comparable to well-graded soil, and possessed a suitable load bearing capacity, thus establishing its feasibility as a potential material for various engineering applications

Filipiniana