Microstructural and Mineralogical Characterization of Lime Stabilized Red Soil Blocks Incorporating Perseamacrantha Extract

Abstract

Compressed red soil blocks stabilised with 10% lime and treated with 5% Perseamacrantha herbal extract have been shown in earlier studies to perform better in terms of strength and to absorb water much less. Hence, encouraged with such positive results, an attempt is made to explore the associated micro and mineralogical mechanisms behind such enhanced performance in the current study, too. In this context, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Energy Dispersive Scanning, and X-Ray Diffraction analysis have been adopted for the samples of RS+L10+H5%. The SEM micrographs have depicted an enhancement in the extent of entanglement for particles, better bonding, and a higher density of cement matrices, in addition to smaller porosities. The result of the EDX analysis proved the presence of high amounts of calcium and calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) and calcium aluminate hydrate (C-A-H) compounds, which are principal agents of strength. The XRD patterns reinforced these observations, providing evidence of new phases generated from the reaction between lime, red soil, and bio-active components of Perseamacrantha extracts. The combination of lime and bio-additives in Perseamacrantha proved effective in increasing mineral stability and improving the micro-structures of the compacted samples. These research findings scientifically prove and reaffirm the effectiveness of Perseamacrantha extracts in mechanical analysis, thereby authenticating Perseamacrantha extracts as a promising and eco-friendly bio-additive for soil-based masonry.