The Influence of the Mineral Content of Clays on their Stabilization by Cement

Abstract

Stabilization of clay soils can be brought about by mixing with cement. This results in the formation of gelatinous products within the interstices of the soil which crystallize as the hardening process develops. The strength of the stabilized soil is developed as the cement hydrates. The various clay minerals in a clay soil influence the ease with which it can be stabilized with cement. Kaolinite appears to have little effect on the hydration of cement and hardening proceeds normally. Well organized illite may be regarded as inert as far as cement stabilization is concerned. By contrast clay minerals with an expansive lattice, notably montmorillonite, have a profound influence on the hardening of cement. Clay soils with an appreciable content of such minerals will, however, respond to cement stabilization if pre-treated with lime. Certain components found in clays, particularly organic matter and sulphates, retard or prevent proper hydration and therefore prove deleterious to soil-cement mixtures.