Effect of metakaolin on the mechanical properties of lateritic soil

Abstract

The effect of varying additions of metakaolin (MK) on the mechanical properties of lateritic soil to be utilized in the construction of pavement foundations has been studied. The preliminary test results show that the soil is highly plastic and lacks the sufficient mechanical ability to be used as a compacted subgrade/subbase for flexible pavement foundation. The kaolin was calcinated to form MK, which was utilized in proportions of 3%, 6%, 9%, and 12% by weight of the dry lateritic soil to stabilize it. California bearing ratio and unconfined compressive strength tests were conducted on the MK-treated lateritic soil to determine the suitability of the treated materials in the construction of compacted subgrade and / or subbase layers of flexible pavement. The stabilization test results show that MK has the potential to be utilized to strengthen the CBR and UCS of lateritic soil with a peak proportion of 6% MK by weight of dry soil beyond which the soil experiences a decline in strength formation.