Statistical evaluation of physical and index properties of Vistula Marshlands deltaic soft soils

This paper provides statistical evaluation of physical and index parameters of the Vistula Marshlands deltaic soft soils using three datasets. Soft soils from the Vistula Marshlands are grouped into the four categories: (1) silty/sandy loams, (2) organic clays, (3) organic silts and (4) peats. Variability of basic and derivative physical properties as well as Atterberg's limits and plasticity index is studied. It is found that index properties for all soil groups are characterized by large scatter (COV about 50%). The most reliable parameters for silty loams, organic clays and silts are soil density (COV<10%) and specific gravity (COV about 2%). Physical/index parameters of peats are characterized by large scatter, which indicates very local properties and individual formation process. Most of the data points for physical/index quantity are within ±1SD range regardless normality of data distribution. In the main body of this paper, the quantitative physical/index properties variability is evaluated and some practical design guidelines concerning variability of deltaic soil in the Vistula Marshlands are given.