Abstract:
The aim of this research is to conserve natural aggregate resources, which are heavily used in the
building, cement, and marble industries. This study focuses on utilizing granular material produced
from excavated soil as a fill material, rather than replacing it with stone dust or crushed gravel. In
this study, cement is used as a binding agent, combined with a polymer to absorb excess water
from slurry in high-plasticity (HP) and medium-plasticity (MP) soils in a composite state. The mix
design for CTGS preparation includes 5% and 10% cement, while maintaining a constant polymer
content of 0.15% based on the soil's wet weight. Comprehensive laboratory and microscopy tests
are conducted on the geomaterials produced. Laboratory testing includes the Particle Breakage
Test (PBT), Direct Shear Test, and California Bearing Ratio (CBR). Microscopy testing comprises
X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM Results reveal that both MP
and HP CTGS particles demonstrate significant strength, an increased friction angle, and an
improved CBR under varying aging periods and loading rates. Notably, strength values showed
marked improvement after 90 days, although no significant changes are observed in other
parameters over the same period. The study explores the treatment principles and physical
characteristics of HP and MP CTGS, highlighting their high porosity, lightweight nature, and
similarity to traditional granular materials. The strength values achieved in laboratory testing
indicate its potential suitability for subgrade, reclamation, and embankment applications.
