CYCLIC PLATE LOAD TESTS ON LIGHTWEIGHT AGGREGATE BEDS

In recent years lightweight aggregates have been used increasingly with or without polymeric reinforcement in geotechnical applications. Results of a series of plate load tests performed on beds of expanded shale lightweight aggregate with or without geogrid reinforcement are presented. All tests were performed in a large test facility so that lightweight aggregate beds could be prepared using light compaction equipment. The relative density of the aggregate and locations of the polymeric reinforcement with respect to the base of the plate were varied in the experimental program.