Utilizing Magnesium Carbonate Induced by CO2 to Modify the Performance of Plastic Clay

Highly plastic clays pose significant challenges in engineering projects. Various techniques have been employed to enhance their properties, though many face difficulties related to implementation and environmental impact. This study examines the effect of CO2-induced magnesium carbonate on improving the geotechnical behavior of plastic clay. CO2-induced magnesium carbonate was produced via mineral carbonation and used to improve the behavior of highly plastic natural clay. CO2 gas was injected into a sodium hydroxide solution to produce carbonate ions (CO32−). Magnesium carbonate was precipitated on a laboratory scale by adding magnesium sulfate solution to the carbonate ion solution. Clayey soil samples were obtained from test pits in the Meyghan Plain near Arak, Iran. The clay samples were treated with different percentages of the produced magnesium carbonate. Various parameters of the treated and untreated samples, including index properties, unconfined compressive strength, consolidation behavior, and swelling potential, were studied. It was found that the liquid limit and plasticity index of the treated clay decreased as the magnesium carbonate content increased. The soil classification changed from high plastic clay (CH) to low plastic silt (ML) with the addition of 15% magnesium carbonate to the highly plastic clay. The unconfined compressive strength of the treated clay increased. Additionally, the consolidation behavior and swelling index of the treated clay improved as the magnesium carbonate content increased. This study confirms that CO2-induced magnesium carbonate is a promising material for improving the behavior of highly plastic clays, offering a sustainable approach to environmental management.