Soil Stabilization with Calcined Paper Sludge: Laboratory and Field Tests

Two investigative stages are presented in this study, which aim to establish basic standards for the use of calcined paper sludge (CPS) in the stabilization of soils. The soils were stabilized with CPS and with mixtures of CPS and cement (C). The total percentage of binder was between 3 and 6% by weight. The blending ratios (by weight) of the CPS:C mixtures were 50:50 and 25:75. The first stage took place in the laboratory, and the second stage, in the field, involved in situ stabilization of 250 m of subgrade using dry-mix methods. The bearing capacity of the stabilized soils was determined in the laboratory. In the second stage, the densities of the subgrade were measured in the field following compaction and deflections at 7 days. Furthermore, the evolution of its unconfined compressive strength (UCS) was measured over 90 days. The results reveal optimal mechanical behavior of the stabilized soil at CPS:C ratios of approximately 25:75.