Field Simulation Technique to Enhance the Mechanical Strength and Elemental Composition of Soft Clay Soil Using Thermal Treatment
Round 1
Reviewer 1 Report
Comments and Suggestions for AuthorsDear authors,
Please find attached my detailed report. In my opinion, a lot of work has been done, but you need to work on the presentation of the aim of the study, its main motivation, the logical storytelling, and the emphasis should be also put on the novelty of this study. My biggest concern is that this manuscript is written more like a technical report rather then a research paper. It should be significantly improved. On the other hand, I believe that once modified, it could be an interesting and valuable paper.
Comments for author File: 
Comments.pdf
The storytelling is not clear, concise and it should be improved.
Author Response
The authors would like to appreciate and thank the editor and reviewer for their valuable comments.
Author Response File: Author Response.pdf
Reviewer 2 Report
Comments and Suggestions for AuthorsDear Editors, dear Authors,
Review
Journal: Minerals (ISSN 2075-163X)
Manuscript ID: minerals-2766340
Type: Article
minerals-2766340
Title: Field Simulation Technique to Enhance Mechanical Behavior and Elemental Composition of Soft Clay Soil using Thermal Treatment
Abstract: In the soils described, all techniques and methods for transporting large loads cease to work or become too costly. In this case, thermal treatment is the most effective method. A novel heating system using gas as a heat source through boreholes simulating the real thing was developed and manufactured. The heating boreholes were placed inside soft clay soil to strengthen the soil. Various parameters were investigated. The results showed the strength and behavior of the soil subjected to the heated boreholes at different spacings, depths, patterns and heating periods. When a heated borehole casing was used, the effect of the pattern of the heated borehole casing was small. Experiments conducted on the heated soil showed that the unconsolidated shear strength (Cu) increased and then decreased. In contrast, the average angle of internal friction (Ø) increased and decreased. The EDS formula showed that components such as silicon, aluminium and iron decreased at 300°C and increased at 400°C in treated soils. Calcium content increased at 200°C and then decreased sharply at 400°C. Carbon percentage increased at 300°C and decreased at 400°C. Elemental proportions showed little change or remained stable at temperatures between 400°C and 600°C.
Reviewer's decision: The article is written correctly and is an interesting report of experimental research. The results are well described and illustrated. On the other hand, editorial corrections are recommended before publication to improve the clarity and unambiguity of the descriptions.
All suggested corrections by the reviewer are described in *.pdf.
Yours faithfully.
Comments for author File: Comments.pdf
Author Response
The authors would like to appreciate and thank the editor and reviewer for their valuable comments.
Author Response File: Author Response.pdf
Reviewer 3 Report
Comments and Suggestions for AuthorsThe research demonstrated by this manuscript shows considerable practical value. The authors have diligently investigated the impact of heat treatment on the mechanical strength of clayey soil, addressing several practical parameters that may exert significant effects. Should the following comments be appropriately addressed, the reviewer strongly recommends its publication in Minerals.
Kindly consider segmenting the Introduction section into distinct paragraphs to enhance its readability.
For a comprehensive discussion on the phase and physicochemical responses of clays/clay minerals under thermal treatment, it is highly recommended to cite the following article available at https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jobe.2022.105802.
In Table 1, please include the unit of Specific Gravity.
Might the authors consider including the definitions of bearing ratio and settlement ratio within Section 2.3?
Could the authors display the 3D square's visual representation in either Figure 15 or 16?
Regarding data analysis, it would be beneficial for the authors to compare the data presented in this manuscript with relevant findings from existing literature.
Regarding Figure 21, could the authors provide clarification concerning the isothermal stage at 101℃?
To enhance conciseness, the authors are encouraged to merge Figures 24-33 within the manuscript.
The reviewer seeks clarification regarding the intended information conveyed through the EDS spectra presented by the authors.
Author Response
The authors would like to appreciate and thank the editor and reviewer for their valuable comments.
Author Response File: Author Response.pdf
Round 2
Reviewer 1 Report
Comments and Suggestions for AuthorsDear authors,
All my comments and suggestions were addressed, and since I have no further recommendations, I'd like to recommend this manuscript for publication.
Kind regards
