Laboratory study and performance evaluation of cement treated base using chemical stabiliser

This paper provides an innovative approach to improve strength and durability of cement treated base (CTB) by the utilisation of StabilRoad, a chemical commercial stabiliser to reduce shrinkage and fatigue cracking shortly after construction. Aspects related to compaction, durability, unconfined compressive strength (UCS), and microscopic behaviour are analysed due to the addition of different percentages of cement and the stabiliser. UCS increased substantially with the addition of this stabiliser. There was an average mass loss of 4.08% and 0.99% respectively after wetting-drying and freeze-thaw cycles have been observed. Microstructure analysis revealed the formation of calcium silicate hydrate (CSH gels) and reduction in CH & SiO2. Presence of ettringites and thaumasites in later phases were negligible which confirmed the resistivity against freeze-thaw actions, and proved the design to be durable. Application of this stabiliser with cement improves durability, enhancing strength and ensure a strong crack resisting base layer. .