Shuyi Zhang, PhD student
Research topic: Expansive clay and unsaturated flow
Previous degree(s): South China University of Technology, China
Fun fact: I am a cat person.
Description of research
My research focuses on expansive soils and unsaturated flow. Based on the large amount of expansive soils in Texas, many pavements crack due to precipitation or high temperatures and drought. My research explores the Potential Vertical Rise (PVR) of soils and further analyzes the relationship between PVR and longitudinal cracking as well as pavement structure. In addition, I will explore the deformation mechanisms of pavement constructed on expansive soil from an unsaturated flow perspective.
Other experience
During my master’s degree, my research focused on the safety assessment and reinforcement of concrete tunnel structures. I have conducted experimental research on the shield tunnel repair and reinforcement mechanism. I designed and carried out a shield tunnel model test with a geometric similarity ratio of 1:5 based on a new reinforcement method to reduce tunnel deformation. In addition, I have participated in several engineering projects that are related to assessing the risk of shield tunnel structures or bridge piles caused by adjacent underground construction.
Publications