The Influence of Cement Stabilization on Marl-Gravel Mixtures for Application in Road Pavement Layer Construction

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

Department of Civil Engineering, Ta. C., Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran

Abstract

Marl is recognized as a problematic soil type in geotechnical engineering, particularly in the construction of flexible pavement structures, due to its sensitivity to environmental conditions. Upon moisture infiltration, marl exhibits significant swelling and volumetric expansion. Conversely, exposure to elevated ambient temperatures induces shrinkage, volume reduction, and deterioration of mechanical strength, primarily resulting from pore development within the marly layers. The present study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of cement stabilization on argillaceous marl–gravel mixtures sourced from Tabriz, to enhance their suitability for use in road pavement layer construction. In the experimental program, marl was mixed with gravel at proportions of 10% and 30%, followed by the addition of cement in the amounts of 4%, 6%, and 10% by weight. The prepared specimens were cured under standard conditions for a period of 28 days. To assess the performance of the stabilized mixtures, a comprehensive suite of laboratory tests was conducted, including evaluations of plasticity, dry density, California Bearing Ratio (CBR) under both dry and saturated conditions, unconfined compressive strength, indirect tensile strength, and permeability. The findings revealed that the optimum mixture consisted of marl with 30% gravel and 10% cement. This formulation demonstrated a 15.2 times enhancement in unconfined compressive strength, a 1.38times increase in CBR, and a 15.2% reduction in swelling. These results underscore the potential of the optimized mixture for effective application in road pavement construction, particularly in cold and moisture-prone environments

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References

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AUT Journal of Civil Engineering
Volume 9, Issue 3
November 2025
Pages 279-294

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