Lime Treatment

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the suitability of lime treatment for use in dikes in the Netherlands. The effect of this technique on the behavior of a Dutch clay was addressed by comparing the detailed response of lime-treated and natural samples at different lime contents (1.25% and 2.25%) and curing periods. A series of laboratory tests consisting of index classification, constant rate of strain, and triaxial and hole erosion tests were performed. The results demonstrated that lime treatment altered the soil response. Differences were observed in the physical, compressibility, strength, and erodibility properties. It was found that lime improved considerably the resistance to compression and erosion, but the effect on hydraulic conductivity was limited. The triaxial test results showed that lime treatment was particularly effective at low stress (<25 kPa) and low strain levels (<10%). During shearing, lime-treated samples exhibited dilative tendencies and enhanced effective strength properties until a stress-strain state was reached that was believed to be related to the breakage of the bonding structure of the sample. The findings of this study demonstrate that the merits of lime treatment can be of particular benefit in dike applications, particularly when the focus is on improving soil erosion resistance.