Strength and primary wave velocity development of laterite soil stabilized with geopolymer under temperatures

Abstract

This study investigates the strength and primary wave velocity of laterite soil stabilized with geopolymer material under varying temperature conditions. The stabilization process involved replacing laterite soil with fly ash at replacement by weight with the levels of 0%, 10%, 15%, and 20%. A sodium silicate solution with a 50:50 ratio and 6 Molar concentration was used for soil compaction at moisture contents of approximately 1.0, 1.25, and 1.5 times the optimum moisture content (OMC). The specimens were subjected to heating at 40°C, 80°C, and 120°C for 48 hours after curing for 28 days, followed by a 24-hour cooling period before experimenting. The unconfined compressive and primary wave velocity tests were chosen to investigate the improvement of enrichment materials. Regarding the testing results, it can be indicated that the laterite soil stabilized with 15% fly ash and compacted at 1.25 times the OMC exhibited the highest strength and P wave velocity. Furthermore, samples exposed to 80°C demonstrated the most significant improvement in both parameters, indicating a strong correlation between temperature and strength development. These findings suggest that geopolymer-stabilized pavement structures become more stable under increased temperature conditions, enhancing their ability to resist shear forces. Additionally, P-wave velocity measurements can serve as a non-destructive method for assessing the strength of materials used in road construction.