The use of pozzolanic materials for road stabilization in Africa: A review

The use of pozzolanic materials for road stabilization in Africa: A review

Ayodeji Theophilus AKINBULUMA, Damilola Ayodele OGUNDARE, Ubagaram Johnson ALENGARAM

Abstract. The use of pozzolanic materials for road stabilization in Africa has gained significant attention due to the need for sustainable, cost-effective road construction and maintenance solutions. This study reviews the utilization of materials like fly ash and silica fume to enhance the mechanical and durability properties of road pavements in Africa. It highlights challenges such as limited resources, climate variability, and increasing traffic demands while emphasizing the unique properties of pozzolanic materials. These materials react with calcium hydroxide in water to form cementitious compounds, improving pavement strength, reducing permeability, and enhancing resistance to environmental degradation. The study discusses material characterization, mix design optimization, and construction techniques, offering guidance on selecting suitable pozzolanic materials and optimal mix proportions. By leveraging these materials, African nations can enhance road performance, lower maintenance costs, and support sustainable practices. Collaboration among researchers, practitioners, and policymakers is crucial to ensure proper material selection, design, and quality control.

Keywords
Cementous, Durability, Pozzolanic and Stabilization, Pavement Structure, African Roads

Published online 3/25/2025, 10 pages
Copyright © 2025 by the author(s)
Published under license by Materials Research Forum LLC., Millersville PA, USA

Citation: Ayodeji Theophilus AKINBULUMA, Damilola Ayodele OGUNDARE, Ubagaram Johnson ALENGARAM, The use of pozzolanic materials for road stabilization in Africa: A review, Materials Research Proceedings, Vol. 51, pp 68-77, 2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.21741/9781644903537-8

The article was published as article 8 of the book Advances in Cement and Concrete

Content from this work may be used under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 license. Any further distribution of this work must maintain attribution to the author(s) and the title of the work, journal citation and DOI.

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