Optimal proportioning of grout constituents using mathematical programming for semi flexible pavement.

This study proposes a mathematical approach to obtain the optimal proportion of the grout constituents for a semi-flexible pavement. Grout mixes were prepared using three different water-cement ratio, three sand sizes, one sand-cement ratio, four/five different percentages of super plasticizer, and two different types of super plasticizer. The grout mixes were tested for flowability and strength using Marsh cone test and cube compressive strength test, respectively. The laboratory results were utilized to validate the proposed mathematical programming approach while obtaining the optimal proportion of grout constituents. Experimental results indicated that a minimum of 2% naphthalene super plasticizer and 1% polycarboxylate super plasticizer are required, irrespective of any combination, to achieve the desired flow time of the grout. The flow time and compressive strength were found to be associated with type of super plasticizer used. The proposed approach was found to be statistically satisfactory, with 95% confidence level, for determining the optimum grout constituents. The validation of the grout penetrability, using the proposed approach, has also been provided. Researchers and field engineers may consider to employ this analytical approach for grout constituent proportioning by partial or total replacement of cement with silica fume or fly ash. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]