Unconfined Compressive Strength Characteristics of Lime Treated Clay

Abstract

Stabilisation of clay by mixing with lime is the most frequently used method of ground improvement today. The overall objective of the study presented in this paper was to investigate the effect of hydrated lime on the unconfined compressive strength of lime stabilised clays. In order to illustrate such effect, a number of unconfined compression tests were carried out; all the stabilized specimens were tested using unconfined compression apparatus. The unconfined compressive strength (UCS) of treated clay experienced an increase with lime addition. Two variables influencing the amount of strength developed were studied, these variables included water content and curing time. Curing time contributed to an increase in the UCS that is approximately twice of the strength of unestablished clay.