Electro-chemical stabilization (ECS) is an innovative soft soil treatment technology that effectively combines drainage and soil cementation. Previous studies on the modification mechanisms of soft soils via ECS remain scarce. This study systematically investigates changes in the physico-mechanical properties

chemical characteristics

and microstructural morphology of soil pre- and post-ECS through vane shear strength tests

pH measurements

total organic carbon (TOC) analysis

X-ray fluorescence (XRF)

X-ray diffraction (XRD)

and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results demonstrate that ECS induces drastic alterations in the soil environment

triggering electrolysis

ion adsorption/desorption

and cation exchange reactions. These processes (1) facilitate the expulsion of abundant organic matter

and (2) generate cementitious compounds (e.g.

calcium silicate

calcium aluminate

ettringite). Consequently

the soil structure evolves from a dispersed state to a denser sheet-like configuration

with increased aggregation of soil particles. Collectively

these transformations contribute to a rapid and marked improvement in soil strength.