Innovative solution for sulfate challenges in lime stabilisation of Cochin marine clays Available to Purchase

The current study focuses on the long-term strength reduction in lime-stabilised Cochin marine clays with sulfate content. By introducing 6% lime and 4% sulfates to untreated Cochin marine clay, the research aims to investigate the effect of sulfates in these clays. Unconfined compression tests were conducted on lime-treated clay both with and without additives, immediately after preparation and over 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years of curing. Test results indicated that both sodium sulfate and lithium sulfate have a negative impact on the strength gain of lime-stabilised clay. To address this issue, barium hydroxide, in both its pure laboratory form and the commercial product known as ‘baryta’, was incorporated into the lime-stabilised soil. The study showed a consistent increase in shear strength with the addition of both barium hydroxide and baryta. When twice the predetermined quantity of baryta was added to lime-stabilised clay, it outperformed pure barium hydroxide in terms of strength enhancement. Results of scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis align with the strength characteristics. The cost-effective use of baryta offers a practical solution to counteract strength loss in lime-stabilised, sulfate-bearing Cochin marine clays.