Using calcium carbide residue as an alkaline activator for glass powder–clay geopolymer

This study investigated the viability of using calcium carbide residue (CCR) as an alkaline activator and recycled glass powder (RGP) as a precursor to improve properties of clay soils. The chemical composition of soil, RGP and CCR were determined by XRF. A compressive strength test was run on the specimens to investigate their mechanical behavior. The effect of different factors such as the CCR content, RGP content, initial synthesis temperature and curing time was investigated. SEM/EDX analysis confirmed the formation of a geopolymeric gel. The results show that both CCR and RGP materials can be used to stabilize clay soil.