Influence of Cement Chemistry on the Performance of Cement Stabilized Tropical Lateritic Soil

Chemical composition affects overall performance of cement on other materials such as when used in concrete or for stabilization of lateritic soil. This research studied the influence of chemical composition of three Portland cement types represented as samples A, B and C on engineering performance when mixed with laterite under tropical environmental conditions.The Lateritic soil sample classified according to AASHTO as A-5(4) was collected from a typical tropical region. Performances of these cements were considered at different cement-laterite proportions, varying from 2-14%. Parameters determined include chemical and metallic contents of the cements as well as Maximum Dry Density (MDD), California Bearing Ratio (CBR) and Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) of cement-laterite mixat a temperature range of 26-28°C. One-way Anova test was used to validate the significant variation in the chemical composition of cements and the unconfined compressive strength. Results indicate that the bearing capacity and unconfined compressive strength of laterite – cement mix depend on the quantity of lime (CaO) and silicon dioxide (SiO2) content in the cement; results also confirm the influence of Aluminium Oxide (Al2O3) and sulphur trioxide (SO3) content on the setting time of cement.