Time and temperature dependency of the geomechanical properties of silty soils treated with lime

This paper summarizes the first results of a research started at the end of 2004 about the long-term effects of a lime treatment on the geotechnical properties of soils. The main parameters governing the testing program are the curing time (up to 448 days), the curing temperature (20 to 50 degrees C) and the lime content (1.5, 3, 4.5%). The evolution of the treated soil properties with time is also investigated and the mechanical tests results are coupled to measurements of lime consumption by the pozzolanic reactions. Test results for a silt mainly based on unconfined compression and ICU triaxial tests are presented. They show that even at usual dosages (around 3%) used for soil improvement, a durable increase in shear strength (cohesion and internal friction angle) may be reached.