Optimization of Bitumen-Cement Emulsion for Stabilizing Selected Sandy Soils in Central Iran Based on Compressive and Shear Strength

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 M.Sc. of Highwy and Transportation, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Yazd University, Yazd, I. R. Iran.

2 Associate Professor, Geotechnical and Road Department, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Yazd University, Yazd, I. R. Iran.

Abstract

Aeolian sand poses significant challenges to civil engineering projects due to its inherent properties. In this research, a comprehensive experimental program was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of bitumen emulsion and cement in stabilizing aeolian sand. For this purpose, samples were collected from three distinct regions (Northern, Central, and Southern) within the central desert areas of Iran and stabilized with varying percentages of bitumen and cement. After 24 hours of curing in a 60 °C oven, the mechanical properties of these samples, including compressive strength, shear strength parameters, and unconfined compressive strength (UCS), were rigorously evaluated. Results demonstrated that optimal mixture in the Northern region, comprising 6% cement and 10% bitumen, yielded a 130% improvement in compressive strength. For the Central region samples, 6% cement and 6% bitumen resulted in a 57% increase in compressive strength. In the Southern region samples, combination of 6% cement and 8% bitumen provided a 121% enhancement in compressive strength. Direct shear tests indicated significant improvements in shear parameters for the optimal mixtures: A 49% increase in the angle of internal friction and a 125% increase in cohesion. The mixture containing 6% cement and 6% bitumen proved most effective in enhancing the internal friction angle, achieving a 29% improvement. Evaluation of UCS results revealed the greatest increases in this parameter occurred in the Northern and Southern regions for samples containing 6% cement and 10% bitumen, with improvements of 79% and 80%, respectively. In the Central region samples, maximum UCS increase (51%) was observed in samples containing 4% bitumen (alongside the optimal cement content).

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References

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History

  • Receive Date: 18 March 2025
  • Revise Date: 11 July 2025
  • Accept Date: 12 July 2025

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