Chen, Rui ， Chen, Hai ， Ke, Xiaoding ， Hao, Ruoyu ， Wang, Yixian
2026-12-15 EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL AND CIVIL ENGINEERING 2026 30(卷), 1(期), (null页)
This study investigates the mechanical properties of aeolian sand (AS) stabilised with geopolymer (GP) and fines for pavement foundation applications. Experimental results reveal that 30% fines content yields the highest maximum dry density for the AS-fines mixture. Both unconfined compressive strength (UCS) and California Bearing Ratio (CBR) increase significantly with higher fines and GP contents, as well as with longer curing age. An empirical model is established to predict the UCS development based on fines content, porosity/binder index and curing time. Consolidated undrained triaxial tests demonstrate that the inclusion of fines and GP enhances shear strength of stabilised AS by introducing cohesion and inter-particle friction, while also promoting dilatancy and post-peak softening. Microstructural analysis indicates that the added fines fills voids and enlarges bonding areas, while GP contributes to strong bonding and sliding friction, thereby improving the overall mechanical performance of stabilised AS.