Evaluation of the Effect of Metakaolin on some Properties of Clay

Abstract

Clay soils are a type of difficult soil. Engineering structures constructed on, or in, these soils may undergo different damages as a result of their problematic nature. The difficult properties of clays are due to their sensitivity to water changing. These soils undergo high volume changes (as a result of shrinkage and swelling), high settlement, and relatively low bearing capacity. Different ways have been used to overcome the difficult properties of clays including different chemical and mechanical techniques. Such techniques aim to treat or improve the difficult properties of these soils. The present experimental study selected the metakaolin as an additive to great the clay soil. The effect of varying amounts of metakaolin on the physical and consolidation properties of the soil has been studied experimentally. It was found that metakaolin, with varying amounts, increases the compaction density and specific gravity of the clay. While it causes a decrease in compaction water content. Metakaolin has positive effects on the compression index and swelling index of the clay. As a result, the high compressible behavior of clay soil can be controlled using metakaolin as an additive.