Abstract: The lime flocculation-vacuum preloading technology demonstrates effective reinforcement to high-water-content dredged sludge.However, large-scale lime usage may adversely affect the ecological environment.To address this, a limited flocculation-vacuum preloading technology was proposed.First, a saturated lime water solution was injected into the drainage body and allowed to stand for a period, utilizing calcium ions to improve the soil structure around the drainage body, followed by vacuum preloading to accelerate the consolidation of dredged sludge.The influence of different standing times on reinforcement effectiveness was analyzed through indoor model tests.Results indicate that, compared with traditional vacuum preloading, the limited flocculation-vacuum preloading method increased cumulative water discharge by 19.4%, reduced water content by 21.3%, and enhanced vane shear strength by 215.1%.Considering both treatment effectiveness and efficiency, 14 days was determined to be the optimal flocculation standing time.These findings provide an effective technical approach for the sustainable treatment and resource utilization of dredged sludge.