Abstract
The practice of using lime as a stabilizer during construction of pavements is widespread and is considered economical. However under certain conditions, the beneficial effects of lime stabilization is overridden. Proximity of gypsum deposits in the soil formations indicates the presence of soluble sulfates. In such areas, when lime is added for stabilization during construction operations, instead of the cementitious reactions, a heaving phenomenon results. This swell induced by lime-soluble sulfate reaction is attributed to the formation of expansive minerals and due to the disruption of the pozzolanic reaction. This research study investigated the material properties of soils in two problem areas, SH 161 and IH 635 when stabilized with commercially available nonstandard stabilizers. From the tests conducted, two of the additives tested namely, Roadbond ENI and EMC Squared were found to show superior qualities regarding strength, stiffness, permeability and other properties when compared to lime. Hence it is recommended that these two additives be used at these two sites in place of lime.
Rajendran, Deepa (1997). Alternate stabilizers: solution towards reducing sulfate swell in expansive clay subgrades in Dallas district. Master's thesis, Texas A&M University. Available electronically from
https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /ETD -TAMU -1997 -THESIS -R35.