Macro–Micro Correlation Mechanism Between Structural Potential and Mechanical Strength in Collapsible Loess
The collapsibility of loess in the northwest region poses a significant threat to infrastructure stability. Current research predominantly separates macroscopic mechanical behaviour from mesoscopic structural characteristics, lacking a systematic methodology to quantify their interdependence. This s...
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| Main Authors: | , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-06-01
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| Series: | Buildings |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/2075-5309/15/11/1940 |
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| Summary: | The collapsibility of loess in the northwest region poses a significant threat to infrastructure stability. Current research predominantly separates macroscopic mechanical behaviour from mesoscopic structural characteristics, lacking a systematic methodology to quantify their interdependence. This study integrates consolidation tests, laser particle size analysis, mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) tests, and fractal theory to propose a multi-scale evaluation framework for assessing the structural potential of collapsible loess in strength, with on-site verification conducted. This framework quantitatively links grain size, pore potential, and connection potential to the collapsibility of loess. The experimental results indicate that loess’s high compressibility and collapsibility are primarily governed by grain size and pore potential. In contrast, the connection potential of soluble salts mitigates structural instability through ionic bonding. Field verification demonstrates a strong correlation between the three structural potentials and the subsidence coefficient (R<sup>2</sup> = 0.92, <i>p</i> < 0.01), validating the framework’s effectiveness in evaluating structural stability. A ternary evaluation system has been established based on fractal dimension, void ratio, and soluble salt content. These research findings provide predictive tools for managing collapse risks in loess-related projects, enabling fixed-point design of loess foundations and early warning of collapse risks. |
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| ISSN: | 2075-5309 |