Using the design of experiment to model the effect of silica sand and cement on crushing properties of carbonate sand

Abstract

In this study, an experimental investigation into the effects of adding a limited proportion of silica sand and cement on crushing properties of simulated carbonate sand is presented. Silica sand in the proportion of 20, 30 and 50% and cement in the proportion of 2 and 4% by dry weight were the fractions added to the base soil. Cemented samples with different dry density 14 and 16 kN/m3 have been considered. Predictive models for the crushing parameter (Cr) are elaborated using the design of experiment method, considering silica sand fraction, cement fraction and effective normal stresses parameters. A good correlation between the values given by the experimental tests and those given by the model was observed. The main effects of the addition of silica sand and cement are reduction of particles crushing, leading to a soil exhibiting less contraction during shearing. Addition of a fraction of silica sand and/or cement enhances the resistance of the particles to crushing occurring during shear. The greatest resistance in crushing is produced when both a fraction of cement and silica sand are added to the soil and mixed at a denser state.