The influence of micro silica on the compaction properties of cemented sand

In this experimental research, a series of standard Proctor compaction tests have been performed to explore the effect of micro silica on the compaction properties of cemented sand. The cement contents were 3, 5 and 7% and micro silica contents were 0, 0.25, 0.5 and 1% by weight of dry sand. The results showed that micro silica particles increase maximum dry unit weight of sand-cement mixtures and decrease their optimum moisture content. The results of Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) images confirmed the results of compaction tests and indicated that micro silica can effectively fill the pores of sand-cement mixtures which can lead to creation of a cement-treated sand mixture with compact microstructure. © Published under licence by IOP Publishing Ltd.