Changes in the moisture content of clays when compacted by heavy loads

Abstract

In the diagenetic processes of clay deposits, one of the most important is the process of dehydration of various silicates and aluminosilicates, which make up the bulk of their mineral part. Dehydration usually begins from the moment of sedimentation and causes a change not only in their physical state, but also in the composition of the moisture they accumulate. In parallel with the dehydration processes, complex physicochemical changes in the constituent mineral formations and sediment cementation occur in clay deposits. The ability of clays to dehydrate is determined by their relationship to water and aqueous solutions. According to modern concepts, this relationship should be considered as an active physicochemical interaction between the surface solution or solvate shell of clay particles and the external environment containing other dissolved substances. It is believed that the true surface solubility of clay particles in water determines the colloidal nature of clays.