Study of the microstructure of collapsible soil treated with the potassium chloride

Abstract

The collapse of soils is a very complex phenomenon that involves a large number ofintrinsic and environment parameters. This research aims to try to better understand the causes ofcollapse of soils and propose solutions to improve them and limit subsidence at least to anacceptable level. From a soil sample reconstituted in the laboratory, composed of a mixture (80%sand and 20% kaolin), we have shown the benefit of additions of salt solutions such as KCl.Analyses with scanning electron microscope and spectroscopy energy dispersive X-ray revealedmicrostructural changes and a significant interaction between clay particles and potassiumchloride. The K+ cation is easily embedded in the pores and promotes the formation of a dense andcompact material.