Changes in the Strength of High-Plasticity Clays After Stabilization: an Experimental Study

Abstract

The most frequently preferred method for the improvement of geotechnical features of clayey soils is stabilization. With this method of adding material with pozzolanic characteristics in various ratios to clayey soils, the aim is to improve geotechnical features such as plasticity, compression, swelling and strength. In this study, the effects of slaked lime, silica fume, fly ash and tuffs with acidic and basic characteristics on the strength of high-plasticity clays were investigated. For this purpose, chemical analyses and laboratory experiments were carried out, and the results were compared. As per the outcomes of the studies conducted, it was determined that the cure application improved strength and strength parameters and that, following stabilization, if the reduction in the plasticity index (PI) in treated samples was more than 60%, the cohesion (c) and angle of internal friction (phi) and, hence, unconfined compressive strength (q(u)) significantly increased. The results obtained from the study showed that the best outcomes could be obtained if slaked lime or fly ash were used or when acidic tuff and basic tuff additives were used along with them.