Binding Agents in Embankment Dam Protective Filters

Granular filters are used in embankment dams to protect against soil that may erode through cracks in the embankment core. It is required that the filter material itself not be able to sustain a crack. Design recommendations exist to limit cohesive behavior of filters. However, based on the observation of cemented behavior of filter materials in the field, it became clear that requirements beyond the existing ones related to grain size and plasticity were needed. The goal of the present research is to evaluate a new index test method to quantify the cementation potential for candidate filter materials for use in embankment dams. This report describes a modified sand castle test method and apparatus, test results for 12 different materials, conclusions from the research, as well as recommendations for future study.