Effect of Fiber Inclusions on Flexural Strength of Soils Treated with Nontraditional Additives

Abstract

The effect of randomly oriented discrete synthetic fiber inclusions on the properties of soils treated with proprietary liquid chemical stabilization additives was evaluated in a laboratory-based investigation. Mercia mudstone, Oxford clay, and limestone quarry fines were stabilized with a proprietary polymer and reinforced with discrete fibers. The findings were compared with untreated and reinforced specimens, which served as the control. Test results showed that the inclusion of randomly oriented discrete synthetic fibers had no significant effect on the compaction characteristics of the soils examined. However, it did result in significant improvements in the toughness of all soils examined and load retention after peak strength for Mercia mudstone and Oxford clay. Polymer/sulphonated oil-stabilized and fiber-reinforced Mercia mudstone and Oxford clay specimens were found to be highly susceptible to moisture, while polymer-stabilized and reinforced limestone quarry fines specimens demonstrated good durability when submerged in water and retained 21 to 33% of their air-cured strengths.