The processes involved in the lime stabilization of clay soils

Abstract

The crystalline reaction products formed in pastes at 40 degrees centigrade by the addition of hydrated lime to various clay minerals have been studied and the mechanisms of the reactions described. The principles evolved were used as a basis for the identification and interpretation of the more poorly crystallized materials produced in compacted lime clay mixtures cured at both ordinary and elevated temperatures. The physical changes induced in the clays during stabilization have been interpreted in terms of the mineralogy of the reaction products. A concept has been advanced to explain short term and long term strengths and to form a model for strength analyses of lime stabilized soil. Preliminary recommendations have been made for assessing the amenability of soils to lime action, and suggestions submitted for future studies (A).