Strength, Stiffness, and Microstructure of Stabilized Marine Clay-Crushed Limestone Waste Blends: Insight on Characterization through Porosity-to-Cement Index

The porosity-to-cement index ([Formula: see text] /C(iv)) has been extensively applied to study the evolution of different types of soil stabilization. However, this index has still not been used to characterize soils cemented with crushed limestone waste (CLW). In this sense, this paper sought to analyze the applicability of the porosity-to-cement index over the unconfined compressive strength ([Formula: see text]) and initial stiffness at small deformations ([Formula: see text]) of clayey soil improved with CLW and Portland cement. In addition, a microstructural analysis (SEM and EDX tests) was also conducted. CLW addition increased soil strength and stiffness over time. Moreover, [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] compacted mixtures containing CLW have established a distinctive correlation. Chemical microanalyses have uncovered a complex interfacial interaction between the soil, cement, and fine CLW particles, leading to a notable reduction in porosity.