Evaluation of Engineering Properties of Portland Limestone Cement-Based Systems and Their Application for Underground Infrastructure

The structural integrity of underground structures, such as repositories, pipelines, and tunnels, depends mostly on adequate cementing work. It is pivotal for preventing leaks and soil erosion, securing zonal isolation, safeguarding freshwater aquifers to surrounding structures, and offering longevity. The impermeable nature of cement acts as a barrier, protecting groundwater from contamination and enhancing the durability of underground facilities. Having a low-carbon potential, Type IL cement offers competitive quality and adequate durability compared to Type I cement. This work investigated the flowability, viscosity, and uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) of four cement-based systems (Type I, Type I-bentonite, Type IL, and Type IL-bentonite) to assess their performance in maintaining the integrity of underground infrastructure. The maximum flowability was achieved for the Type IL-bentonite system and it was 9.3% higher compared to the Type I-bentonite system. With a 49.5% reduced viscosity and optimum UCS, the Type IL-bentonite system stands out as a promising option for cementing underground structures.