Investigating the strength, hydraulic conductivity, and durability of the CSG (cemented sand-gravel) check dams: a case study in Iran

Abstract This paper aims to find a proper admixture of the cemented sand-gravel (CSG) material for constructing hardfill embankment located in cold weather. To this end, compaction, strength, permeability mixtures with cement contents 5, 7.5, 10, and 12.5% are experimentally studied. Besides, freeze–thaw durability native grains soil stabilizing is examined. According test results, even though compaction specifications all do not considerably depend on content, however content mixture significantly influences compressive stiffness, mixtures. The aggregates inherently have high water absorption thus severely fractured after 50 cycles freeze–thaw. After cement, improved, weight loss becomes less than 5% 12 However, reduce strength up 40% comparison intact mixture. analysis scanning electron microscope images implies that four factors including disintegration calcium-silicate-hydration complex, imposing new porosity, releasing interlayered water, establishing secondary ettringite main reasons reduction encountering which been observed previous researches.