ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | Feb. 1, 2024
Laboratory Evaluation of the Hydraulic Conductivity as a Function of Changes in the Particle Size of a Cubitermes Sp Termite Mound Soil Treated with Lime
Louis Ahouet, Sylvain Ndinga Okina, Stiven Cardelin Marien Mangala, E. P. Nkembo Mangue
Page no 26-41 |
DOI: 10.36348/sjce.2024.v08i02.001
This work characterizes the geotechnical properties and microstructure that served as a fundamental and more practical basis for describing the hydraulic conductivity of the lime-treated cubitermes sp termite mound soil. The results show that changes in particle size lead to a decrease in dry density and linear swelling. Permeability is strongly correlated with particle size distribution and compaction. Permeability increases up to the lime fixation point obtained at 6% of the lime content. Compaction for micropore reduction in treated soil is higher than in raw soil. The treated soil has a denser internal structure with agglomerations of dispersed clay particles. The increase in compaction energy reduces macropores and permeability, and the soil microstructure becomes homogeneous. Natural soil is highly impermeable, and soil-lime mixes are among the least draining materials. Higher values of hydraulic conductivity were obtained as a function of time. Soil and mixtures can be used in civil engineering works (earthworks). Correlations between hydraulic conductivity and particle size fractions are polylinear fits with R2 (0.962-0.993) and the Slogistic1 model with χ²(2.06E-15) for the mean silt fraction. This study is decisive for predicting hydraulic conductivity from the geotechnical properties of the soil, by solving the mathematical expressions of the models used.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | Feb. 13, 2024
Causes of Disputes in Construction Projects
Amila N.K.K. Gamage, Suresh Kumar
Page no 42-48 |
DOI: 10.36348/sjce.2024.v08i02.002
Disputes are common in construction projects due to their complex nature. However, disputes are costly and it requires more money, time, and resources to find resolutions. By identifying the causes of disputes, project leaders can find measures to prevent or mitigate such possible disputes in construction projects. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify the major causes of disputes in construction projects. Secondary data from the studies done from 2019 to 2023 were used for this study and the results revealed 50 causes of disputes in construction projects. Further, these causes were categorized into four categories that are client related, consultant related, contractor related, and other causes of disputes. The results of this study show that among the 50 common causes of disputes, 36% is consultant related, and 34% is client related issues. Other than that, 51% of causes of disputes emerge during the pre-contract phase. This study also identified the research gaps and areas that need future studies.