Environmental assessment and geomechanical properties of controlled low-strength materials with recycled and alternative components for cements and aggregates

The use of alternative binders may result in mixtures with properties comparable to those of reference mixtures. Very fine aggregates (saw-mill silt) significantly improve workability and reduce setting-times, without promoting any strength gain in the long term. Recycled CLSMs proved effective only when used as a substitute for 50% of natural sands. The high concentration of some hazardous contaminants was reduced to acceptable levels using hydrophobic agent and stannous sulphate. Such results encourage the use of unconventional CLSMs as a surrogate for conventional geo-materials in a variety of civil and environmental engineering applications.