Volume change behaviour and microstructure of stabilized loess under cyclic freeze–thaw conditions

Freeze–thaw action is considered to be one of the most destructive actions that can induce significant damage in stabilized subgrades in seasonally frozen loess areas. Laboratory tests including frost heave – thaw shrinkage and microstructure change during freeze–thaw cycles were conducted to evaluate the volume change rate of loess stabilized with cement, lime, and fly ash under the impact of cyclic freeze–thaw conditions. The loess specimens collapsed after eight freeze–thaw cycles (192 h), but most stabilized loess specimens had no visible damage after all freeze–thaw cycles were completed. All of the stabilized loess samples underwent a much smaller volume change than the loess alone after the freeze–thaw cycles. Although surface porosity and equivalent diameter of stabilized loess samples increased, the stabilized loess can retain its microstructure during freeze–thaw cycles when the cement content was less than 6%. To ensure freeze–thaw resistance of stabilized loess subgrades, the mix proportions of the three additives was recommended to be 4 to 5% cement, 6% lime, and 10% fly ash.