Question

Consider the following statements:
1. Brittle behaviour of soils can be obtained when the soil is heavily over consolidated clay.
2. Remoulded cohesive clays show a tendency towards progressive failure.
3. Undisturbed sensitive clays show a tendency towards progressive failure.
Which of these statements are correct?

• A. $1,2$ and $3$
• B. $1$ and $3$ only
• C. $1$ and $2$ only
• D. $2$ and $3$ only

Answer 1

The correct option is C $1$ and $2$ only

• In case of heavily over consolidated clays, the stress strain curve has a sharp peak. Hence it shows brittle behaviour.
• Remoulded clays or soft clays show constant failure at similar values of stress hence it has a plastic failure. This is the reason for progressive failure.
• Undisturbed sensitive clay shows a sharp peak which occurs at relatively low strain in stress-strain curve.