Effects of Relative Humidity During Curing on Small-Strain Modulus of Cement-Treated Silty Sand

Rizki Maretia Novi Barus, Apiniti Jotisankasa, Susit Chaiprakaikeow, Supakij Nontananandh, Shinya Inazumi, Auckpath Sawangsuriya

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of relative humidity (Rh) or total suction condition during curing on small-strain shear modulus (G0) of a cement-treated silty sand using free-free resonant frequency tests (FFR). The moduli were determined on samples cured at different suctions corresponding to three Rh values of 7%, 75%, and 100%, in both unsoaked and soaked conditions. Soil–water retention curves (SWRCs), and unconfined compression strength (UCS) were also determined along with x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The cement-treated SWRCs showed a much flatter slope than the non-treated ones, and the air-entry suction increased with cement content. The values of G0 increased with cement content and curing time. The highest modulus was achieved in 75%Rh curing condition. The 7%Rh condition resulted in a significant drop in modulus, even close to the non-treated G0 for the 2% cement case. At the same UCS value, the soaked cement-treated samples had higher modulus than the non-treated ones in the unsoaked condition, indicating that the effect of suction on modulus was smaller than the effect of cementation. XRD analysis revealed a greater availability of C3S in 7%Rh curing condition at 7-day curing period suggesting that the hydration process was still not complete, which explained the decrease in G0 in this curing condition.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)2131-2146
Number of pages16
JournalGeotechnical and Geological Engineering
Volume39
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2021 Mar

Keywords

  • Cement-treated soil
  • Free-free resonant frequency method
  • Relative humidity
  • Small-strain shear modulus
  • Total suction

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Architecture
  • Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Soil Science
  • Geology

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