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Strength Exerted by Montomorillonite Clay

Booth Id:
EAEV009

Category:

Year:
2016

Finalist Names:
Wiening, Wyatt

Abstract:
Montmorillonite is a common silicate mineral that is a major constituent of the Earth's soils. This clay also belongs to a group of clays known as swelling clays, which increase in size when they are hydrated. Over time, buildings, roads, sidewalks, and bridges can be damaged by this clay as it is hydrated, dehydrated, and hydrated again. A recent study has been conducted to assess the force exerted by this clay. Every day during the study, a one gram sample of clay was recorded and later analyzed. This study varies from a previous study because it measures the force exerted by montmorillonite clay instead of the expansive properties.