An overview of the basic engineering properties of Malaysian peats

This review addresses key factors influencing the basic engineering properties of Malaysian peats. The fibrous structure and high organic content (OC) of peats are likely to result in large amounts of compression and settlement. High Malaysian rainfall provides water to these fibrous structures, resulting in high natural/field water- contents ranging 500-2000% by dry mass, based on the literature. From an engineering perspective, peats are a unique soil type the behavior of which is influenced mainly by regional geology and environment. Records of peats from various locations across the country showed OCs ranging 0-100%, specifically, 0-90% and 70-100% in eastern and western Malaysia, respectively. This review highlights OC as one of the prime factors influencing the basic engineering properties of Malaysian peats.