In this study, the feasibility of sintering ceramsite from engineering excavated soil was studied from experimental verification perspective. The optimal preparation conditions for the sintered ceramsite were determined through multi-factor testing with the sintering temperature from 1100 degrees C to 1175 degrees C and Fe2O3 content from 23 % to 26 % and charcoal powder content from 1.5 % to 3.0 %. The cylindrical compressive strength of the ceramsite can reach 5.02 MPa. It is found that the synergistic effects of Fe2O3 and charcoal powder have a great influence on the expansion properties of ceramsite. The generation of gas and vitreous phase by charcoal powder burning and Fe2O3 reduction effectively can promote the expansion of ceramsite. The typical core-cortex structure of ceramsite is formed, and the compact structure of the external layer significantly reduces the water absorption of ceramsite. Experimental results indicate that under the conditions of adding 23-26 % Fe2O3 powder and 1.5-3.0 % charcoal powder, with a sintering temperature of 1100-1175 degrees C, the obtained ceramic material exhibits excellent strength properties.
