Understanding the strengthening of a lateritic “geomimetic” material

“Geomimetic” materials consolidation involves an acidic and alkaline reaction steps and a curing period at 60 °C for 18 days under water saturated atmosphere. The use of lime (Ca(OH)2) or soda (NaOH) gives rise to consolidated products exhibiting similar compressive strengths. Soda-based products appear to be less resistant within water solution. The lime-based materials are good thermal insulators and their strengthening can be represented graphically as shown below.