International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)
e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 12 Issue: 11 | Nov 2025
p-ISSN: 2395-0072
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Geotechnical Properties of Marine Clay Treated with Foundry Sand and Lime for Pavement Subgrade Improvement Dr. D. Koteswara Rao1, Viyyapu Durga Praveen2 1Professor of Civil Engineering & OSD to Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, JNTUK, Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, India 2Post graduation Student, Department of Civil Engineering, University College of Engineering Kakinada(A), JNTUK,
Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, India ---------------------------------------------------------------- - ---***----------------------------------------------------------------------
Abstract - Marine clay deposition in India is a significant
Transportation of goods and commodities, particularly for industries like shipping, and offshore energy. Flexible pavements are the most commonly adopted pavement system in highway construction due to their costeffectiveness, ease of construction, and ability to withstand repeated traffic loads through a multi-layered structural arrangement. The overall performance and durability of flexible pavements are greatly influenced by the strength of the subgrade soil, which acts as the foundation for distributing stresses imposed by vehicular loads. By supporting transportation infrastructure, coastal pavements contribute significantly to the economic and social development of coastal regions.
geological phenomenon, particularly along the country's extensive coastline. These deposits are formed through the transportation and settling of fine-grained sediments, often brought by rivers and influenced by tidal and wave actions. which poses significant challenges for pavement construction due to their high compressibility, low shear strength, and poor California Bearing Ratio (CBR). The weak subgrade conditions lead to excessive settlement, loss of bearing capacity, and early deterioration of flexible pavements. Moreover, seasonal fluctuations in moisture content further aggravate shrink–swell behaviour, reducing long-term durability. In the present study the Geotechnical properties of marine clay such as Atterberg limits, Optimum Moisture Content (OMC), Maximum Dry Density (MDD), California Bearing Ratio (CBR) and strength characteristics were determined. Also, the industrial by product Foundry Sand is utilised for stabilization. The other additive used in this study is lime. This study demonstrates that the combined use of foundry sand and lime can effectively transform weak marine clay into a competent pavement sub grade material. These findings contribute to the development of durable and resilient road infrastructure in coastal regions while supporting sustainable construction practices through industrial by-product utilization. Together, they provide a cost-effective and eco-friendly stabilization technique, reducing reliance on conventional materials and provide a valuable insight for design and construction of pavements in marine clay dominated coastal regions of India.
This soil exhibits high natural moisture content and low bearing capacity, which make it unsuitable for use as a stable subgrade. When flexible pavements are constructed over untreated marine clay, the weak foundation leads to several structural distresses. These include rutting under traffic loads, longitudinal and alligator cracking due to differential settlement, edge failure caused by lateral movement, and pumping or heaving from moisture variations. Therefore, it becomes essential to adopt soil stabilization techniques such as the use of lime or industrial by-products like foundry sand to enhance the strength, reduce plasticity, and improve the load-bearing capacity of marine clay subgrades.
1.1 Stabilization Techniques for Marin e Clay Marine clay requires stabilization before being used as a subgrade in flexible pavement construction because of its weak engineering properties. The main stabilization techniques include:
Key word: Marine Clay (MC), Foundry Sand (F.S) Lime, Maximum Dry Density (MDD), Optimum Moisture Content (OMC), California Bearing Ratio (CBR).
1. Mechanical Stabilization – Improvement of soil strength by compaction, blending marine clay with sand, gravel, or quarry dust to increase density and bearing capacity.
1.INTRODUCTION Pavements in coastal regions are of great importance as they form the backbone of transportation infrastructure, connecting ports, cities, and towns along the coastline. These pavements facilitate the movement of services and people, supporting economic growth, trade, and tourism. Well-designed and well-maintained coastal pavements are essential for ensuring the safe and efficient.
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2. Chemical Stabilization – Addition of stabilizing agents such as lime. Lime reduces plasticity and improves workability, while cement and pozzolanic materials increase strength and durability. 3. Geosynthetic Reinforcement – Application of geotextiles, geogrids, or geocells between pavement layers to improve
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