EFFECT OF CALCITE AND SILICA FUME ON COMPACTION AND CBR IN CLAY STABILIZATION

Abstract

This study evaluates the impact of calcite and silica fume on compaction properties and California Bearing Ratio (CBR) in clay stabilization. Clay from Cihampelas, West Bandung, was mixed with 5% calcite and silica fume at 6%, 8%, 10%, and 12%. The results show that silica fume significantly improved the CBR value. The original clay had an unsoaked CBR of 4.75% and a soaked value of 3.30%. With 12% silica fume, the unsoaked CBR increased to 7.15% and the soaked CBR to 5.80% after 7 days of compaction. The optimum moisture content (OMC) also increased from 20.50% to 23.50% with 12% silica fume. Fluctuations in maximum dry density (ɣ max) indicate structural changes in the soil. This study confirms that calcite and silica fume are effective in enhancing soil strength and stability, making them a viable solution for improving soil bearing capacity in construction. Further research is needed for long-term evaluation.