Introduction Cement stabilization rapidly increases strength, lowers permeability, and enhances durability for ground improvement and earth block stabilization. The significance of dry density (DD) and OPC content in predicting the compressive strengths of cemented cylindrical and block specimens was recognized by earlier researchers who developed predictive equations for cylindrical and block specimens. The existing approaches are limited because the exponents of the material properties vary with soil type and the type of specimen (cylindrical or block) used. Equations to predict the compressive strengths of cemented block specimens in the soaked state are unavailable. Methods Equations are proposed in this study use the simple DD×OPC product for both cylinders and block specimens. The sand, clay and plasticity index of the block soils varied from 7-78%, 4.5-25%, and non-plastic to 20% respectively. Furthermore, the equations (based using published data sets) enable reliable compressive strength predictions of cemented cylindrical and block specimens in soaked and unsoaked conditions. Results and Discussion A single equation predicts the compressive strengths of cylinders made from four soil types: SC (Sandy Clay), CL (Clay), ML (Silt), and SM (Sandy Silt). A single equation predicts the compressive strengths of block specimens made from two soil types: SC and CL. The x and y exponents for OPC and DD terms are obtained from R2 (coefficient of determination) optimization of strength versus DDy × OPCx relations. Data analysis showed that cemented blocks with 5% OPC will meet load-bearing walls criteria (unsoaked strength 4 MPa, soaked strength = 2 MPa) at densities of 1.65 to 1.85 g/cc; 7% OPC blocks will meet criteria at dry densities of 1.65 to 1.8 g/cc. Most blocks with 4% OPC were only suitable for non-load-bearing walls except at the density of 1.85 g/cc.
Sudhakar M. Rao (Thu,) studied this question.