Cement‐based solidification/stabilization of phenol‐contaminated soil by bentonite and organophilic clay

Abstract

AbstractThe performance of ordinary and organophilic clays in the solidification and stabilization process was investigated with respect to the unconfined compressive strength (UCS) and leaching of phenol‐contaminated soil. The samples contained 2,000 mg/kg of phenol. White cement (15 and 30 percent by weight [wt%]) was used as binder, while ordinary and organophilic clays (8, 15, and 30 wt%) were applied as additives for reducing the harmful effects of phenol interference in cement hydration with a 28‐day curing time. The results revealed that the UCS is reduced by increasing the amount of clays. The values of UCS of all samples met the minimum standards specified for disposal in sanitary landfills determined by developed countries. The leaching test demonstrated that the degree of leaching diminished with increased clay content in all samples of both clay types. This reduction was observed to be greater in samples containing organophilic clay than in bentonite clay samples. Furthermore, the best composition of the materials tested was determined to be 30 wt% white cement plus 13.3 wt% organophilic clay with a compressive strength of 3,839 kPa, phenol removal percentage of 80 percent, and a cost of $67 per ton of contaminated soil.