Scanning electron microscopy investigation of loess soil stabilized with cement and natural zeolite

Zeolite and Portland cement have been used to stabilize a loess soil from the region of Kozloduy (North Bulgaria). This paper examines the microstructural behavior of cement–zeolite treated loess soil without compaction at water content higher than optimum. Scanning electron microscopy and semi-quantitative energy dispersive spectroscopy analyses on stabilized loess were carried out after various curing periods. The identification of the formation of cementitious products in treated loess soil was conducted by SEM–EDS spectral analysis. Based on the study of the microstructural development, it was found that the modified loess microstructure undergoes significant modifications during the observed period.