Broad-Spectrum Empirical Correlation Determining Tensile and Compressive Strength of Cement-Bonded Clean Granular Soils

Based on a large database of unconfined compressive strength ($q_u$) and splitting tensile strength ($q_t$) results of cement-bonded clean granular soils with varying characteristics, distinct porosities, cement types and contents, and curing time periods, this paper advances the understanding of key strength controlling parameters. The $q_u$ and $q_t$ values were normalized, and a broad-spectrum empirical relationship (a general model) for cement-bonded clean granular soils controlling both tensile and compressive strength for an entire range of porosities and cement contents was proposed and successfully checked against literature data, contributing to the establishment of the blends’ strength behavior. From a practical perspective, it means that, at limit, carrying out one unconfined compression/splitting tensile test for one specimen (molded with a specific cement amount, at a specific porosity, and cured for a given time period) allows the determination of the curve that controls the strength for an entire range of porosities and cement contents. This also contributes to minimizing the number of specimens that need to be molded and tested, thus also reducing project development cost and time.