ABSTRACT
Field tests conducted by Rollins et aI., (1990) indicate that dynamic compaction treatment provides the most effective means of reducing the settlement of collapsible soils to tolerable limits. Prewetting, in combination with dynamic compaction, offers the potential for increasing compaction efficiency and uniformity, while increasing vibration attenuation. Prewetting with a 2 percent solution of sodium silicate provides cementation that reduces the potential for settlement. Prewetting with water was found to be the easiest and least costly treatment, but it proved to be completely ineffective in reducing collapse potential for shallow foundations. Prewetting must be accompanied by preloading, surcharging or excavation in order to be effective.
