Influence of pore fluid-soil structure interactions on compacted lime-treated silty soil

The effects on hydromechanical performance due to chemical interactions between pore solution and soil components in lime-treated soil are investigated. Static-and kneading-compacted soils are percolated by demineralized water (DW) and a low-ionic strength solution. Kneading action causes aggregate deformation, thus consequently reducing macropores of diameter 105 & ANGS;. This increases the hydraulic tortuosity and lengthens the pore fluid-soil structure contact, which favors the long-term pozzolanic reactions. DW being relatively more aggressive than low-ionic strength solution accelerates the leaching of Calcium, thus negatively impacting the hydromechanical performance. The study shows that the hydromechanical evolution in lime-treated soil is governed by the duration of pore fluid and soil structure contact, depending on the compaction mechanisms implemented. The extent of the effect of pore fluid-soil structure interaction is regulated by the pore solution chemistry and the lime content. Thus, importance should be given to the relevancy of the selected compaction procedure and the permeant solution at the laboratory scale with respect to in-situ compaction mechanism and pore water.

Automated summary

This study investigates the effects of chemical interactions between pore solution and soil components on the hydromechanical performance of lime-treated soil. The results show that kneading action during compaction causes aggregate deformation and reduces the number of macropores. This increases the hydraulic tortuosity and prolongs the pore fluid-soil structure contact, favoring long-term pozzolanic reactions. Furthermore, it is found that demineralized water is more aggressive than low-ionic strength solution, leading to increased leaching of Calcium and negatively impacting the hydromechanical performance.