Microstructure and mechanical behavior of smectite Holocene clays from the Queretaro Valley, central Mexico

This study investigates the mechanical behavior and microstructural evolution of undisturbed Jurica smectite-rich clays from the Querétaro Valley, central Mexico, through consolidated–undrained triaxial testing and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The clays are classified as high-plasticity (CH) soils, with natural water content of about 30%, porosity of ∼66%, and a mineral assemblage dominated by Ca–and Na–Fe–smectites, with accessory volcanic-derived phases. Triaxial tests were conducted un