Experimental Analysis of the Strength and Microstructural Effects of Rice Husk Ash and Bamboo Leaf Ash on Cement-treated Lateritic Soil

Abstract

The two most often utilized binders in soil stabilization projects are lime and Portland cement, but this process has a high rate of carbon emission. However, research on soil stability through the use of cleaner materials and environmentally friendly binders with a lower carbon footprint has garnered a lot of attention in recent years due to the significant carbon emissions in cement manufacturing. In this study, the strength and microstructural characteristics of lateritic soil stabilized with bamboo leaf ash (BLA) and rice husk ash (RHA) were examined. The soil sample underwent preliminary examinations and California bearing ratio tests as part of the testing process (CBR). The soil sample was then individually mixed with BLA and RHA at 2% intervals in proportions of 0-16%, as well as cement in variable proportions of 0-12% at 2% intervals. The blends were tested for CBR at each stage. The greatest values for unsoaked and soaked CBR at 8% cement +8% RHA were 92.3% and 70.2%, and 90% and 62.2%, respectively, at 8% cement +8% BLA for soaked and unsoaked CBR. SEM and X-ray diffraction (XRD) tests were performed on samples that had reached these ideal CBR levels. According to the results, new compounds were created and the microstructural layouts changed. Therefore, it may be inferred that the stabilization process involved pozzolanic and cement hydration reactions.