Comparative Study on Stabilization of Marine Clay Using Nano-silica and Lime

This paper reports the experimental results of using two chemical additives to enhance the properties of marine clay collected from Vypin, Cochin area. Modifications in properties of marine clay by lime are investigated to compare the nano-silica particles’ effect in mechanical properties of clay. The engineering properties studied included Atterberg limits, maximum dry unit weight, optimum moisture content and unconfined compressive strength. Lime to soil ratios of 3, 4 and 5% were used. Nano-silica used for the study varied from 0.5, 0.8 and 1%. Atterberg limits variation and unconfined compressive strength variation were evaluated for the curing period of 3, 7, 14 and 28 days. Strength is enhanced three times for amended clay with nano-silica. Optimum lime content for lime stabilized clay was obtained as 4% and nano-silica as 0.8%. Plasticity characteristics are remarkably modified in the lime-amended clay compared to nano-silica additive. Unconfined compressive strength improvement shows similar variations for both nano-silica and lime.