THE NATURE OF MECHANICAL STRENGTH OF OVEN-DRY AGGREGATES OF SOIL

The mechanical strength of oven-dry aggregates varies from 13 to 147 k Pa and depends on such structural parameters as the number of individu al contacts, particle-size distribution, porosity, and specific surfac e. The relationship between aggregate strength and chemical properties of soil particles is observed only for clayey and clay loamy soils. ' 'Closeness'' is a necessary condition for the manifestation of adhesio n and cohesion at the aggregate level of the organization of soil stru cture.