Studies on Utilization of Controlled Low Strength Materials in Pavement Layers

Abstract

Road networks play a essential role in transportation systems at the national, state, and local scenario. Ongoing efforts involve construction of new roads and the enhancement of existing ones to improve the overall efficiency of the transportation system. However, highway construction often results in environmental degradation. A more eco-friendly alternative known as CLSM relies significantly on industrial waste in its production process. CLSM, also known as flowable fill, is a self-compacted cementitious material that exhibits properties between concrete and soil. This paper focuses on evaluating the suitability of CLSM mixes in pavement layers and is prepared by combining ground granulated blast furnace slag, cement, and fine aggregates such as crumb rubber and copper slag sand. Flowability and marsh cone tests were conducted to assess the workability of the mixes. California Bearing Ratio (CBR) test, Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) to determine the mechanical properties of hardened CLSM. CBR values obtained for CLSM mixes (UCS range 0.28 – 2.42 MPa) was observed to be more than that of conventional pavement subgrade materials. Adoption of such CLSM mixes for pavement subgrade will lead to sustainable road construction.

Keywords

• clsm
• fly ash
• california bearing ratio
• unconfined compressive strength
• resilient modulus