Evaluation of Hexahydrated Magnesium Chloride Performance as Chemical Stabilizer of Granular Road Surfaces

Thenoux G.; Vera, S

Keywords: magnesium, maintenance, humidity, absorption, surfaces, tension, surface, construction, road, compounds, atmospheric, preventive, Stabilizers, (agents)

Abstract

The performance was evaluated of hexahydrated magnesium chloride (MgCl 2·6H2O) as a chemical stabilizer of granular road surfaces. MgCl2·6H2O is a salt with properties that are useful for chemical stabilization of granular road surfaces, such as its capacity to absorb and retain humidity from its surrounding environment, increase water surface tension, and decrease water vapor pressure. Its effect on the physical and mechanical properties of soils was evaluated in laboratory, and its functional performance and durability were evaluated in field trials. Field trials were performed in arid and semiarid regions in the Atacama Desert in northern Chile. Field results showed that roads stabilized with MgCl 2·6H2O remain free of dust and corrugations and exhibit a considerable reduction in potholes and surface erosion. The period of effectiveness for MgCl2·6H2O has proven to be more than 2 years, without any type of road maintenance.

Más información

Título de la Revista: TRANSPORTATION RESEARCH RECORD
Número: 1819
Editorial: NATL ACAD SCIENCES
Fecha de publicación: 2003
Página de inicio: 44
Página final: 51
URL: http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-0141683927&partnerID=q2rCbXpz