Shear wave velocity of zeolite-cement grouted sands

Cement production is an energetically demanding process and one of the most important sources of CO2 emission in the world. Consequently, the use of more environmentally friendly supplementary materials which can replace at least a part of cement can be efficacious. In the present study, a laboratory investigation on loose sandy soils (Dr ≈ 30%) grouted with cementitious materials (cement and natural zeolite) was conducted to investigate the effects of cementation on the shear wave velocity (Vs) of grouted sand specimens. The results showed that in all the sand grain sizes and water to cementitious materials ratio (W/CM), the Vs of grouted samples increased with an increase in zeolite content up to 30% (Zopt); however, beyond the Zopt, any increase in the zeolite content reduced the Vs. In all W/CM and Z percentage, the Vs in grouted specimens decreased with increase in the average sand grain size (D50). The Vs increased following the attainment of equilibrium by CaO with SiO2 and Al2O3 in the grouted sand specimens. •The Vs of grouted sands increased with an increase in zeolite content up to 30% (Zopt).•Beyond the Zopt, any increase in the zeolite content reduced the Vs.•The Vs in grouted specimens decreased with increase in the average sand grain size (D50).•The Vs increased following the attainment of equilibrium by CaO with SiO2 and Al2O3.