Eur. Phys. J. Plus (2016) 131: 134
https://doi.org/10.1140/epjp/i2016-16134-3

Regular Article

Physical and geotechnical properties of cement-treated clayey soil using silica nanoparticles: An experimental study

¹ Department of Civil Engineering, Babol University of Technology, Babol, Iran
² Department of Chemical Engineering, Babol University of Technology, Babol, Iran
³ Young Reseachers and Elite Club, Sari Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sari, Iran

^* e-mail: ghasemi.seiyed.e@gmail.com

Received: 8 January 2016
Revised: 27 March 2016
Accepted: 4 April 2016
Published online: 5 May 2016

Abstract

This study investigates the use of nanosilica to improve geotechnical characteristics of cement-treated clayey soil from the coastal area of the eastern Caspian Sea in the Golestan province, Iran. Atterberg limits, unconfined compressive strength, and California bearing ratio (CBR) tests were performed to investigate the soil plastic and strength parameters. The specimens were prepared by mixing soil with 9% cement and various contents of nanosilica. An ultrasonic bath device was used to disperse nanosilica in water. The addition of nanosilica enhanced the strength parameters of the clayey soil. Moreover, a nanosilica percentage of 1.5% by weight of cement improved the compressive strength of the cement-treated clay up to 38%, at age of 28 days. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) and an atomic force microscope (AFM) were used to evaluate specimen morphology. SEM and AFM results confirm the experimental ones. Therefore, nanosilica can be employed for soil improvement in geotechnical engineering.