Accelerated Design Process of Lime-Stabilized Clays

Selection of the proper concentration of lime for clay stabilization is primarily based on achieving a target pH value. However, interaction between mineralogy of materials, curing processes and construction methods significantly impact the performance of stabilized clays. If the selected concentration of additives is not adequate to ensure short- and long-term strength and durability, stabilization will be ineffective. Many highway agencies complement the design process with other tests to ensure that proper strength, stiffness and durability are achieved. The most common parameter considered is the unconfined compressive strength of specimens that are cured and moisture conditioned for a number days. In this paper, several accelerated testing methods that could minimize the time required for specimen preparation, curing, conditioning and testing time to complete the stabilizer design process are evaluated.