Optimal Use of Bagasse Ash on Cement Stabilized Laterite

Abstract

Bagasse ash (a residue obtained after the incineration of the fibrous by-product of the extraction of juice from sugarcane) was used as an admixture in the cement stabilization of a laterite classified as A-7-6 (12) and CL according to AASHTO and Unified soil classification system, respectively. California bearing ratio (CBR) and unconfined compressive strength (UCS) were used as evaluation criteria for specimens compacted at the energy of British Standard Light (BSL). The durability of the soil-cement-bagasse ash specimens was assessed by immersion in water to determine resistance to loose in strength. Generally, substantial improvements in the strength and durability values of the treated lateritic soil were recorded with up to 6% bagasse ash content for specific cement contents. Based on durability assessement of soil-cement-bagasse ash mixtures tested, 6% cement/6% bagasse ash and 2% cement/6% bagasse ash are recommended as optimal additives for the stabilization of CB1 (heavily trafficked) and CB2 (Lightly trafficked) roads, respectively.