Experimental Study on the Mechanical Properties of Xinyang Red Clay Improved by Lime and Fly Ash

Abstract

There is limited research on the utilization of lime and fly ash for improving the mechanical properties of red clay soils. This study investigates the physical and mechanical properties of modified red clay with single fly ash, single lime, and mixed cases using various experimental tests, such as direct shear tests, unconfined compression tests, etc. Scanning electron microscopy was also used to analyze the microstructure of the modified red clay. The findings indicate that the incorporation of lime and fly ash resulted in a decrease in the liquid limit, plasticity index, and maximum dry density of the modified soils, while increasing the plastic limit and optimum water content. The enhancement of lateritic soils by lime and fly ash was primarily attributed to the generation of gel substances from the active ingredients, which improved the soil microstructure and increased its strength. The case study in this paper provides a new perspective on soil improvement.