This paper presents the results of an experimental investigation carried out to evaluate the effect of fly ash (FA) on fine sand compaction and its suitability as a material for embankments. The literature review demonstrates the lack of research on stabilization of sandy material using FA. The study is concerned with the role of FA content in stabilized soil physical characteristics. The main aim of this paper is to determine the optimum quantity of FA content for stabilization of this type of soil. This is achieved through particle size distribution and compaction (standard proctor) tests. The sand was stabilized with three proportions of FA (5%, 10% and 15%) and constant cement content of 3% was used as an activator. For better comparison, the sand was also stabilized by 3% cement only so that the effect of FA could be observed more clearly. The results were in line with the literature for other types of soil, i.e. as the % of FA increases, reduction in maximum dry density and higher optimum moisture content were observed.

The results of drained cyclic triaxial tests performed on Dogs Bay sand (a carbonate sand) are discussed in this paper. For this sand it has been previously demonstrated that the critical state exists and is unique. The relationship between volumetric strains due to cyclic loading and the critical state of this material under monotonic conditions is explored here. Drained cyclic tests on loose samples have been carried out, applying different amplitudes of cyclic loading for samples that generally have initial states on the wet side of critical. The trends of behaviour are summarised, pointing out the relationship between initial state parameter, amplitude of cyclic loading and final change in the state parameter at equilibrium. Experimental evidence is also given to demonstrate that the sand has a memory of the volumetric strain that has previously occurred when different patterns of cyclic loading are consecutively applied and equilibrium has not been reached.