Characterization of Singapore, Bangkok, and Ariake clays

A soil investigation was carried out at two sites in Singapore and Bangkok, Southeast Asia, and the results were compared with those from a site in Ar iake, Japan. Soil samples at all the sites were retrieved using the Japanes e sampling method to nullify the effect of sampling on sample quality. From the laboratory tests, consolidation characteristics and undrained shear st rength were measured. In addition to the mechanical tests, X-ray diffractio n and scanning electron microscope tests were carried out to identify clay minerals and to study their microstructure. Great differences in physical a nd mechanical properties of these clays were observed, which may be attribu ted to the difference in their clay mineral components and variation in the sedimentation environment.