Comprehensive Review of Classes F and C Fly Ash Effects on Clayey Soils: Geotechnical Predictive Correlations

Abstract

Fly ash, a by-product of coal combustion, enhances the geotechnical properties of soil, primarily through its two types: class F and class C, known for their pozzolanic and cementitious properties, respectively. Numerous studies have explored the benefits of both types of fly ash in stabilizing problematic expansive soils, which are characterized by weak strength, high compressibility, and significant volume changes that can damage infrastructure. However, direct comparisons between class F and class C fly ashes in improving expansive soils are limited. This study aims to fill this gap by conducting a critical review of research from the past 20 years, focusing on the impact of class F and class C fly ashes on the geotechnical properties of expansive clayey soils. Key parameters examined include Atterberg limits, free swell, unconfined compressive strength (UCS), and California bearing ratio (CBR). The findings indicate that both fly ash types reduce liquid limits and plasticity indices of clayey soils, with class C fly ash showing more pronounced effects. Additionally, class C fly ash significantly reduces soil swelling and enhances UCS and CBR, especially due to its higher CaO content. The study provides novel formulas to aid future researchers in predicting the behavior and performance of clayey soils stabilized with these specific fly ash types, offering a comprehensive examination of their geotechnical parameters.