PORTLAND LIMESTONE CEMENT STABILIZATION OF LATERITE MODIFIED WITH CALCIUM CARBIDE WASTE SLURRY
Abstract
This research examines the stabilization potential of Portland limestone cement (PLC) on laterite modified with calcium carbide waste slurry (CCWS). Laterite obtained from Apir region, in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria was mixed with 2-10% PLC at 2% increments and 4-12% CCWS at 4% increments by dry weight of soil, respectively. Atterberg limits, compaction, California bearing ratio (CBR), and unconfined compressive strength (UCS) tests were performed on untreated and PLC plus CCWS-treated laterite. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) were performed on untreated and PLC plus CCWS-treated laterite. The liquid limit of untreated laterite decreased from 40 % to 32 % when treated with 10% PLC plus 12% CCWS, while the plastic limit of untreated laterite increased from 20% to 28% when treated with 10% PLC plus 12% CCWS. Similarly, the plasticity index of the untreated laterite was reduced from 20% to a minimum value of 4% when treated with 10% PLC plus 12% CCWS. The optimum moisture content and maximum dry density increased from 12.5% to 15.5% and 1.84 Mg/m³ to 1.98 Mg/m³, respectively, when treated with 10% PLC plus 12% CCWS. The 7-day UCS and soaked CBR of Apir laterite increased from 500 kPa and 12.68% to 1460 kPa and 156%, respectively, when treated with 10% PLC plus 12% CCWS. SEM/EDX analysis shows that Apir laterite treated with PLC plus CCWS has a more integrated composition, smaller voids, and a significant presence of Ca, suggesting cementitious reactions, compared to natural Apir laterite. The significant content of Ca, Si, and Al in PLC plus CCWS-treated Apir laterite suggests the availability of cementitious compounds (CSH and CAH). A combination of 6% PLC plus 8% CCWS, having UCS, CBR, and resistance to loss in strength values of 957 kPa, 102%, and 80%, respectively, is recommended for treating Apir laterite for use as a sub-base material in road pavement.
KEYWORDS: Portland limestone cement, Calcium carbide waste slurry, Stabilization, Laterite, Road pavement.
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