Partial soil replacement in soil cement using bentonite and polyurethane foam

This study evaluates the effects of partially replacing soft clay with Ca-bentonite or polyurethane foam in soil-cement mixtures to improve geotechnical performance in soft soils. Cement content was fixed at 20% by total mix weight (% wt), while soft clay was partially replaced with Ca-bentonite or polyurethane foam at 20% wt, 30% wt, and 40% wt. Density, weight, and compressive strength were evaluated at curing ages of 7 and 28 days. The optimal mixture, determined based on compressive strength, was subsequently selected for the permeability test and compared with natural soft clay and a conventional soil-cement mixture. Moreover, scanning electron microscopy was conducted to characterize particle morphology and pore structure, providing microstructural insight into the strength behaviour of mixtures incorporating both Ca-bentonite and polyurethane foam replacements. The results indicate a clear contrast between the two replacement materials. Ca-bentonite increases density and compressive strength through pozzolanic and filling effects. The optimal sample, consisting of 50% soft clay, 20% cement, and 30% Ca-bentonite (S5C2B3) by weight, achieves a 28-day compressive strength of 9.71 MPa with stiff and brittle behaviours. Weight increase is associated with Ca-bentonite swelling, which enhances impermeability. In contrast, polyurethane foam reduces density and strength, producing a lightweight, ductile material due to its porous structure and water loss. Ca-bentonite is suitable for high-strength or low-permeability applications, whereas polyurethane foam is appropriate for lightweight fill where reduced weight is required.