Effect of Zeolite on the Compaction Properties and California Bearing Ratio (CBR) of Cemented Sand

Abstract

This research investigates the impact of zeolite on the compaction properties and California Bearing Ratio (CBR) of cemented sand. For this purpose, firstly, sand, cement (2, 4, 6, and 8% by the sand dry weight), and zeolite (0%, 30%, 60%, and 90% of cement content, as a replacement material) are mixed. Then, various cylindrical samples with sizes of 101×116 mm and 119×152 mm are prepared for compaction and CBR tests, respectively. After curing for 28 days, the samples are tested according to the standards of compaction and CBR tests. The results depict that the use of zeolite reduces Maximum Dry Density (MDD) while it increases Optimum Moisture Content (OMC) of cemented sand. Furthermore, the inclusion of zeolite up to 30% of cement content contributes to the highest CBR values due to the pozzolanic and chemical reactions. Finally, some correlations with high correlation coefficients are proposed between the CBR and MDD of zeolite-cemented sand.