Strength and Durability of Granular Soil Stabilized with FA-GGBS Geopolymer

摘要

Granular soils are sensitive to internal erosion due to the presence of lesser fines and need to be stabilized to improve their geoengineering properties. An investigation is made to explore the efficacy of fly ash-slag (FA-GGBS) geopolymer in stabilizing granular soil through a set of experimental studies. The experimental program focused on compaction characteristics, unconfined compressive strength, bearing resistance, and durability of geopolymer stabilized granular soil to assess its suitability as a construction material. Micro-structural analysis has been carried out and correlated with strength development. Based on the test results, a maximum unconfined compressive strength of about 7 MPa and California bearing ratio (CBR) ranging from 52% to 416% is obtained. The geopolymer stabilized soil showed excellent stability against wetting-drying and freezing-thawing cycles, slaking water, and aggressive chemical environments. The microstructural developments are greatly influenced by the geopolymer content and curing period, indicating the formation of hydration and geopolymeric reaction products.