Effect of cassava starch, hydrated lime, and carboxymethylcellulose on the physicomechanical behavior of mixtures with clay matrix

Abstract

The physical and mechanical behavior of experimental mixtures with additions of cassava starch, carboxymethyl cellulose, and hydrated lime in a clay matrix is described. The added elements accounted for 3% of the weight of the mixes and the clay matrix for 97%. Mixing water was incorporated in different % according to the workability and molding of the mixes. Tests indicated the influence of additions on volumetric changes, particle detachment, and mechanical strength of the experimental mixtures. It was concluded that percentages ≥ 50% carboxymethylcellulose favored properties in mixtures. The opposite result was obtained with the addition of lime. Mixtures with additions of 25% cassava starch and 75% carboxymethylcellulose reported similar mechanical behavior and no particle detachment.