Analysis of the chemical and microstructural modifications effects on the hydro-mechanical behaviour of a lime-treated clay

Abstract

The paper presents the results of a characterization of kinetic characteristics of pozzolanic reaction with the aim to investigate the time-dependent modification of clay properties as a consequence of mixing with lime. Results of chemical analyses are in agreement with the increase of mechanical properties and with the observed microstructure modifications up to one year of curing time. The rate of development of pozzolanic reactions seems to be almost constant while the time required for their completion is dependent on the lime content. Pozzolanic products are responsible for the time reduction of swelling strain upon saturation as well as for the increases of yielding stress, stiffness and hydraulic conductivity. However, the data analysis proves that a significant component of settlement measured during loading may be induced by the secondary compression process (creep). These results are significant for the prediction of the long-term behaviour of the stabilized soil.