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Contact Name
Aswin Lim
Contact Email
aswinlim@unpar.ac.id
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Journal Mail Official
igj.isge@gmail.com
Editorial Address
Graha HATTI Jl. Asmin No. 45, Kelurahan Susukan, Kecamatan Ciracas Jakarta Timur - Indonesia 13750
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INDONESIA
Indonesian Geotechnical Journal
ISSN : -     EISSN : 28297520     DOI : https://doi.org/10.56144/igj.v1i3
Core Subject : Science,
As all geotechnical engineers are aware of, soil behaviour can vary significantly from places to places. Design methodologies available in existing literature, especially on correlations of soil investigation and soil parameters, may not apply to local conditions. It is necessary to tailor well-established knowledge to the geotechnical problems related to Indonesia. The Indonesian Geotechnical Journal aims to address this problem by providing an open-access peer-reviewed journal. This journal provides a platform for authors to publish their state-of-the-art knowledge for practicing engineers as well as the academic society. Although the Indonesian Geotechnical Journal is intended to provide an outlet for Indonesia geotechnical research, suitable contributions from other countries will be most welcomed. Indonesia has a very complex geology, a meeting point of two continental plates and two oceanic plates. This means that the soil conditions in different part of Indonesia can vary greatly. Being at the meeting point of tectonic plates also mean that Indonesia, in addition to earthquake prone, has hilly and mountainous terrains. Further aggravating the conditions, Indonesia has a tropical climate, meaning high rainfall. Hilly terrain with high rainfall and earthquake is a recipe for slope failures. Mitigation of slope failure is something sought throughout Indonesia. Indonesia also has significant soft soil problems, with the fast-paced development of infrastructure in the recent years, various ground improvement techniques were adopted. The success and not so successful stories can be shared through the Indonesian Geotechnical Journal. Allowing exchange of knowledge and experience to enable engineers to build a better Indonesia. The scopes of topics include soil and rock mechanics, material properties and fundamental behaviour, site characterization, foundations, excavations, tunnels, dams and embankments, slopes, landslides, geological and rock engineering, ground improvement, bio-geotechnics, Geotechnical earthquake engineering, liquefactions, waste management, geosynthetics, offshore engineering, risk and reliability applications, physical and numerical modelling, and case-history.
Articles 80 Documents
Characterization of Sepaku Clay Shale with Slaking Test, X-Ray Diffraction and Scanning Electron Microscopy: Potential Stabilization Using Bacillus Subtilis Yuswal Subhy; Achmad Bakri Muhiddin; Ardy Arsyad
Indonesian Geotechnical Journal Vol. 4 No. 3 (2025): Vol. 4, No. 3, December 2025
Publisher : Himpunan Ahli Teknik Tanah Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56144/igj.v4i3.130

Abstract

Clay shale in the Sepaku region exhibits geotechnical vulnerability (slaking, cohesion loss, saturation expansion) that threatens slope stability and road foundations. Conventional stabilization methods (cement/lime) can cause negative environmental impact; therefore, alternatives with low environmental impact such as microbially induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) are sought for. MICP has the potential to improve the mechanical properties of clay shale. MICP utilizes microbial activity (urease enzyme or alternative pathways) to trigger CaCO3 precipitation that binds soil particles and fills pores. In order to optimize the stabilization effects of MICP on Sepaku clay shale, it is first necessary to characterize the clay shale properties. Slaking test, X-Ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy were conducted on clay shales samples obtained from Sepaku region. The SPT tests from two boreholes show NSPT values of above 60 for the shale, which is expected for unweathered shale. The disturbed samples were then subjected to slaking tests, which the results categorize the shale to be low durability after one cycle of wetting and drying, and very low durability after two cycles of wetting and drying. The unconfined compressive strength was found to be 2.53 MPa, categorizing the Sepaku clay as weak rock. The XRD and SEM results of Sepaku clay revealed consistent values and characteristics as other clay shales. This research serves as preliminary investigation to optimize the stabilization of Sepaku clay shale using MICP method, in particular Bacillus Subtilis bacteria.
Determination of Bentonite’s Flow Limit Using Cylinder Strength Test and Suspension Settling Model Setiadjie, Samuel Jemmy; Widjaja, Budijanto; Putra, Mayolus Musa; Anandito, Atharayhan
Indonesian Geotechnical Journal Vol. 4 No. 3 (2025): Vol. 4, No. 3, December 2025
Publisher : Himpunan Ahli Teknik Tanah Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56144/igj.v4i3.131

Abstract

Cohesive soils exhibit complex behavior characterized by distinct transitional boundaries between different states. One of the boundaries is the flow limit (FL), which is the transition between the viscous liquid and suspension states. Currently, there are no specific standard tests to determine the flow limit. Most previous studies have used the undrained shear strength (cu) value to determine the FL value. This study employed two different approaches to obtain the FL value: first, using the cylinder strength test (CST), which approaches from the viscous state, and second, using the suspension settling model, which approaches from the suspension state. There are five variations of samples for each test: 100% bentonite, 90% bentonite and 10% sand, 80% bentonite and 20% sand, 70% bentonite and 30% sand, and 60% bentonite and 40% sand. The cylinder test was conducted with three different cylinder diameters: 30 mm, 40 mm, and 50 mm. For the suspension settling model, five solid concentrations were used, namely 0.5%, 0.4%, 0.3%, 0.2%, and 0.1%, for each sample. The results show that the CST for bentonite suspension gave higher results than the other; meanwhile, the suspension settling model is the most conservative. The FL value from the CST test ranges from 3.33 to 4.9 times higher than the liquid limit (LL); the suspension settling model yielded values of 1.9 to 2.6 times higher than LL. The results are higher than those in previous studies, which can be attributed to differences in apparatus capacities used to determine the cu value, variations in bentonite mineral compositions, and different estimation approaches. Although in this research the range of FL values is still vast, this study has provided insights from two different approaches. This research still has various development opportunities, such as mineralogy effect and new method development to divine the FL value.
Analysis and Design of a High-Risk Tiered Retaining Wall Using a Geosynthetic Reinforcement System Kosalim, Valdy; Isparmo; Saptyanto, Krisandi; Rante Panganggi, Wira; Agrina, Dwi
Indonesian Geotechnical Journal Vol. 4 No. 3 (2025): Vol. 4, No. 3, December 2025
Publisher : Himpunan Ahli Teknik Tanah Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56144/igj.v4i3.132

Abstract

Infrastructure development in Indonesia often faces rugged terrain and high seismicity, requiring advanced geotechnical solutions. One of the challenges lies in ensuring that an embankment can effectively withstand heavy loading conditions. Mechanically stabilized earth (MSE) walls provide a safe and efficient option to address these RSS with a total height of 26.95 meters based on a previous project. The structure is designed to withstand a large static surcharge load (up to 375 kPa) and a seismic load with a peak horizontal ground acceleration (kh) of 0.225g. The method employed is a limit equilibrium stability analysis using Janbu's simplified method of slices for non-circular failure surfaces, referring to the SNI 8460:2017 standard, and utilizing TensarSlope software. The selected system is the SierraScape System, which combines high-strength uniaxial geogrid primary reinforcement with a flexible welded wire for facing. The analysis results show that the retaining wall design meets the required factors of safety for both static (FS = 1.301 > 1.300) and seismic (FS = 1.163 > 1.100) conditions. In conclusion, this case study demonstrates that the application of modern geosynthetic reinforcement systems is a reliable and effective solution for addressing geotechnical challenges in high-risk projects in Indonesia, contributing a design reference for similar conditions.
Influence of Underconsolidating Soil on Effective Stress Path in a Deep Excavation Case Albert Sebastian; Lim, Aswin
Indonesian Geotechnical Journal Vol. 4 No. 3 (2025): Vol. 4, No. 3, December 2025
Publisher : Himpunan Ahli Teknik Tanah Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56144/igj.v4i3.133

Abstract

This study investigates the influence and impact of clay soil that is presumed to be undergoing consolidation process on an unbraced shallow excavation system. The excavation geometry spans up to 160 meters with a maximum depth of 5.25 meters. A concrete sheet pile wall was installed at the front side of the excavation, supported by additional tie beams connected to square precast piles behind the wall. Based on soil investigation data, residual excess pore water pressures were identified within the underconsolidating clay layer at depths between 3 to 12 meters. These residual pore pressures contribute additional loading to the retaining wall system. A back analysis was conducted to obtain appropriate soil parameters to be used for PLAXIS 2D modelling. The finite element analysis results were compared with inclinometer data to validate the back analysis. Modeling of the underconsolidating condition was performed by manually inputting the pore water pressure into the initial condition. Results show that under underconsolidating conditions, the maximum wall deflection reached 190 mm, whereas under hydrostatic conditions, it was only 100 mm. Additionally, a parametric study was carried out to examine the relationship between the degree of consolidation and wall deflection. The findings indicate that a higher degree of consolidation leads to reduced wall deflection. To investigate the stress changes on the wall due to underconsolidating soil, a stress path analysis was performed to understand the stress history around the excavation. It was found that in underconsolidating conditions, the average effective stress tends to be lower and the deviatoric stress higher, resulting in a stress path that is closer to the failure line.
Microbial Enzyme Extract Evaluation for Calcium Carbonate Biocementation: Implications for Ground Improvement Daryono, Lutfian Rusdi; M Akmal Putera; Tomohiko Abe; Aoi Ichinohe; Kazunori Nakashima; Satoru Kawasaki
Indonesian Geotechnical Journal Vol. 4 No. 3 (2025): Vol. 4, No. 3, December 2025
Publisher : Himpunan Ahli Teknik Tanah Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56144/igj.v4i3.137

Abstract

Microbially Induced Carbonate Precipitation (MICP) has emerged as a promising technique for slope surface stabilization or other ground improvements. However, its effectiveness in fine-grained soils is limited due to challenges associated with bacterial cell transport. This study explores the feasibility of an alternative approach Enzyme Induced Carbonate Precipitation (EICP) from microbial bacteria itself for stabilizing fine-grained slope soils. In this study, urease was extracted from whole-cell cultures of Lysinibacillus xylanilyticus (LyXy) which developed under Hokkaido University and using cyclic sonication. The extracted enzyme solution was then applied to a precipitation test using fine-grained sand and/or soil samples. The performance of enzyme extract was evaluated in comparison to traditional MICP with a focus on the adaptability to precipitate the fine-grained sand/soil and the effectiveness of the enzyme. Results indicated that the urease extract exhibited higher enzymatic activity than the original bacterial culture and maintained better stability at 15°C. The observation verified that the effectiveness of enzyme-induced and MICP would vary depending on the soil to be treated. The enzyme-induced resulted in unconfined compressive strength around 4 MPa and deeper cementation in the finest sand. Microscopic analysis revealed that while enzyme-induced produced smaller calcium carbonate crystals compared to MICP, it generated a significantly higher quantity of crystals, leading to enhanced particle bonding and improved soil stabilization.
Stabilization of Patimban Marine Soft Clay with Portland Composite Cement: The Effect of Initial Water Content Variations on Soil Bearing Strength Pandiangan, Yosse Triade; Cikmit, Arlyn Aristo; Anindita, Listya Diah; Tsuchida, Takashi; Aoyama, Tatsuru
Indonesian Geotechnical Journal Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026): Vol. 5, No. 1, April 2026
Publisher : Himpunan Ahli Teknik Tanah Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56144/igj.v5i1.129

Abstract

Marine clay soil generally exhibits poor physical and mechanical properties, such as high plasticity, low bearing capacity, and excessive settlement under pressure. Soil improvement techniques, such as cement stabilization are thus needed to enhance these characteristics. This study investigates the effect of clay water to cement content ratio (wc/c) and curing time variations on the unconfined compressive strength (qu) of Patimban dredged marine clay stabilized with Portland Composite Cement. Laboratory tests employed variations in ratio of initial water content to its liquid limit (w0/LL), i.e., 1, 1.25, 1.5, and 2, as well as variations in cement content of 20% and 30% of the dry soil mass. Unconfined compressive strength (UCS) test was carried out at curing periods of 1, 3, 7, 28, and 56 days. The peak effective cement hydration process occurred in the first 7 days. The results revealed an inverse correlation between the  ratio and , where an increase in the  ratio caused a decrease in the  values. The high-water content resulted in large voids between cement-soil particles, weakening the strength of the binder. The relationship between the  ratio and the  value indicated a good match yielded an R² value of 0.88-0.94. Further, the unconfined compressive strength of the soil continued to develop with the increasing curing time of 1-56 days. The Average Normalized Difference (A.N.D) value obtained from the relationship between the measured and the estimated compressive strength value was low (11.40%), meaning the estimation equation can be effectively used to estimate the compressive strength of marine clay soil stabilized with Portland Composite Cement at various curing times.
Implementation of Sludge-Filled Geotextile Tubes as a Sustainable Coastal Protection Measure in Muddy Coastline Tiasundari, Nastiti; Harninto, Dandung Sri; Ady, Rizal Ansari; Sulaiman, Dede M.
Indonesian Geotechnical Journal Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026): Vol. 5, No. 1, April 2026
Publisher : Himpunan Ahli Teknik Tanah Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56144/igj.v5i1.142

Abstract

Coastal erosion is one of the major challenges faced along the northern shoreline of Java Island. This phenomenon results in degradation of the coastline, threatening not only the local ecosystems but also the livelihoods of coastal communities. The soft, muddy coastal characteristics of this region make conventional hard-engineering structures less effective and unsustainable, prompting the need for alternate solutions. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of sludge-filled geotextile tubes (GI-Tubes) as an erosion control measure in muddy coastal areas. A field experiment was conducted using three GI-Tube units, each measuring 1.3 meters in height and 20 meters in length, installed parallel to the shoreline. The GI-Tubes were made from double-layered needle-punched staple fiber polypropylene non-woven geotextile and filled with locally sourced sludge mixed with flocculants to promote effective sediment floc formation within the tubes. The small opening size of the non-woven geotextile facilitated efficient dewatering while retaining the sludge inside. The outer layer of the GI-Tube provided high UV resistance and enhanced sediment-trapping capability, offering additional protection and extended durability. The double-layered design of the geotextile tubes enhances their overall structural integrity, enabling them to withstand hydrodynamic forces such as wave and coastal currents. After five months, a height reduction of approximately 0.4 meters was observed, likely due to settlement of the sludge filling. Monitoring conducted 2 years after installation indicated that the sludge fill remained solid and well-consolidated with no sign of damage, thereby confirming good performance of the structure. Satellite imagery analysis 40 months post installation indicated shoreline accretion accompanied by a significant expansion of mangrove growth, reaching up to 50 m beyond the initial vegetation line. These findings suggest that sludge-filled GI-Tubes can be an effective, low-cost, and sustainable solution for mitigating coastal erosion in soft-soil coastal environments.
Characterization and Shear Strength Evaluation of Sensitive Volcanic Residual Soils in West Java Salamah, Mirna Dwi Lestari; Hendra Jitno; Irma Fudji Lestari; Nisrina Aulia Is Marsa; Antania Hanjani
Indonesian Geotechnical Journal Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026): Vol. 5, No. 1, April 2026
Publisher : Himpunan Ahli Teknik Tanah Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56144/igj.v5i1.144

Abstract

Volcanic residual soils in tropical regions exhibit unique engineering behavior that differs significantly from sedimentary soils. These soils often contain amorphous clay minerals such as allophane and halloysite, which contribute to their sensitivity and unusual strength characteristics. Field observations in West Java revealed near-vertical, free-standing cuts up to 12 meters high, indicating apparent cohesion supported by natural cementation and unsaturated conditions. A geotechnical investigation was carried out using standard penetration tests (SPT), cone penetration tests with pore pressure measurement (CPTu), and laboratory tests including Atterberg limits, index properties, and unconsolidated-undrained triaxial tests. Results show that Su values obtained from CPTu are more consistent with laboratory triaxial data, while SPT correlations tend to underestimate strength due to sample disturbance. Furthermore, particle size analyses confirm the gap-graded nature of volcanic residual soils, reflecting differential weathering processes. This study aims to establish representative undrained shear strength parameters of sensitive volcanic residual soils in West Java by integrating field and laboratory investigations. The findings highlight the importance of careful sample handling, the use of less-disturbing in-situ tests, and the selection of appropriate testing methods to obtain reliable soil parameters for engineering design. These findings provide practical implications for the characterization and modeling of sensitive volcanic residual soils in engineering applications.
Adhesion Factor (α) of Drilled Piles in Clay Shale with Static and Dynamic Load Sudjatmiko, Eddy Triyanto; The Cin Hok
Indonesian Geotechnical Journal Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026): Vol. 5, No. 1, April 2026
Publisher : Himpunan Ahli Teknik Tanah Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56144/igj.v5i1.146

Abstract

Adhesion factor (α) is one of the significant parameters in calculating the bearing capacity of pile foundations, both for driven piles and bored piles in clay soils. In practice, the α value is usually estimated based on the available empirical correlations. The applicability of this correlation for bored pile installed in expansive soil and clay shale is questionable. Clay shale is known as one of the problematic soils, due to its physical properties that rapidly soften once exposed to water/moisture and loss of pressure. This physical sensitivity becomes crucial in bored pile constructions. Especially in the drilling and casting process as the soil is exposed to water and loss of horizontal pressure causing reduction in soil shear strength. This study investigates the load transfer behavior of a bored pile installed in clay shale formation. The pile, instrumented with vibrating wire strain gauges, was axially loaded through dynamic and static load test up to 700 tons. The strain gauges provide accurate strain measurement of each pile segment, proportional to the stress induced. Through the pile load-settlement, t-z and q-z curves, the load transfer mechanism and interaction between bored pile and the clay shale soil can be analyzed. By performing back analysis, the actual skin friction (fs), and adhesion factor (α), of bored piles in clay shale can be determined. The results show that in clay shale that have experienced slaking (30 < NSPT < 70), the adhesion factor (α) = 0.12~0.18. While for fresh clay shale (NSPT > 70), the adhesion factor (α) = 0.32~0.35. These values are significantly lower than α = 0.55 which is usually applied in practice; as well as some previous studies, including the value recommended by Reese and Wright (1979).
Stability Assessment of Homogeneous Embankment Dam Under Variable Drawdown Rates Using Unsaturated Soil Parameters Muhammad Adi Ibrahim; Anas, Azwar
Indonesian Geotechnical Journal Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026): Vol. 5, No. 1, April 2026
Publisher : Himpunan Ahli Teknik Tanah Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56144/igj.v5i1.147

Abstract

Embankment dams are critical for sustainable water resource management, providing irrigation, hydropower, flood control, and water supply. One of the critical threats to an embankment dam stability is rapid drawdown, when reservoir levels fall faster than pore pressure dissipation in the upstream slope. This condition reduces shear strength and can trigger failure. One of the commonly used methods for rapid drawdown assessment is the three-stage approach developed in the early 1990s, which provides a practical framework by combining drained and undrained soil strength. However, these methods do not explicitly consider the influence of drawdown rate, which can strongly affect stability. This study evaluates the effect of drawdown rate on the stability of an embankment dam using unsaturated soil mechanics framework and compares the results with those from the three-stage method. Numerical analyses were carried out using coupled seepage and slope stability modelling. The soil-water characteristic curve of the clay core was estimated from index properties. Three drawdown rate variations were examined: half a meter per day, one meter per day, and two meters per day. The result showed that the three-stage method produced higher factors of safety than the unsaturated framework. Unsaturated framework also showed lower factor of safety for faster drawdown rates. This study highlights that the three-stage method may overestimate the stability of dam embankment during rapid drawdown. Incorporating unsaturated soil mechanics provides a more realistic assessment and offers insights for improving dam safety, particularly under conditions where faster drawdown may occur.