Dependence of the Material Properties of Lightweight Cemented Soil on the Curing Temperature

AbstractLightweight air-trapped cemented soils are prepared by mixing air bubbles and water with sand and cement. Inappropriate curing temperatures can negatively affect the properties of lightweight air-trapped soil (ATS); however, the effect of the curing temperature has not been studied. This experimental study was conducted to investigate the effect of curing temperature on the properties of lightweight ATS. Three different unit weights of lightweight ATS, 6, 8, and 10  kN/m3, and temperatures ranging from −5 to 40°C were considered. Based on the results of unconfined compressive strength tests, an allowable curing temperature range of 5–25°C is suggested to ensure a suitable compressive strength of lightweight ATS. Based on measurements of volume change, an allowable range of temperature that results in volume change within the permissible range is 8–25°C.