Dynamic property growth of weathered granite soils stabilized with wood pellet fly ash based binders

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of wood pellet fly ash (WA) and wood pellet fly ash-blended binders (WABB) on the dynamic growth of albite-based weathered granite soils (WS) over 28 days. Free-free resonant column (FFRC) and unconfined compressive tests (UCT) were conducted on the specimens after 3, 7, 14, and 28 days. The measured seismic waves, small strain deformation properties, and strength gain of the WABB-stabilized WS were higher than those of the WA-treated soils. The WA alkali stimulation and WABB hydration resulted in the development of new cementitious minerals in the WS matrix. However, the higher calcium oxide content and cementation of WABB are more beneficial for enhancing the WS stiffness owing to the combined hydration characteristics of cement and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) with WA. Differences in mixing method, design mix, and soil-specific characteristics influenced the correlations between the velocity, moduli, and strength. This study presents the potential of new sustainable soil stabilizers and their role in facilitating the early detection of soil stiffening through wave velocity monitoring.