Cement Stabilization of Indian Peat: An Experimental Investigation
Publication: Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering
Volume 32, Issue 11
Abstract
This article focuses particularly on the improvement of peatland in the Northeast (NE)-Indian region by using a chemical treatment process. Cement is used as a binding agent to the peat at different percentages (by dry weight of peat) which improves its mechanical, chemical, and microstructural characteristics. The organic content plays a vital role in the densification process, which ultimately reduces the density of peat. Further, the amendment of cement brings a notable strength improvement to peat, as well as nullifies the effect of organic content, reduces the influence of acidity, and finally renders a conducive change to its electrical conductance. Moreover, the principal mechanisms that contributed to this improvement process are supported by using some morphological studies such as field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). A significant change in the morphology of cement-treated peat has been noticed in the FESEM micrographs, which yields a reduced porous structure and densifies the entire soil fabric. The formation of the calcium silicate hydrate (CSH), calcium aluminate hydrate (CAH), calcium aluminum silicate hydrate (CASH), and ettringite is confirmed by XRD analysis which is actually responsible for the hardening process. Further, FTIR analysis gives additional support to the observed results where an increase in the spectral intensity throughout the entire range after the treatment process indicates the formation of a new strength-enhancing gel. However, the adverse effect caused by the organic substances (such as carboxylic groups and polysaccharides) to the overall improvement has also been confirmed through FTIR analysis.
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Data Availability Statement
Some or all data, models, or code generated or used during the study are proprietary or confidential in nature and may only be provided with restrictions.
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Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering
Volume 32 • Issue 11 • November 2020
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©2020 American Society of Civil Engineers.
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Received: Mar 27, 2019
Accepted: Mar 13, 2020
Published online: Aug 29, 2020
Published in print: Nov 1, 2020
Discussion open until: Jan 29, 2021
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