A review of the mineralogical and geotechnical properties of some residual soils in relation to the problems of road failures: A case study of Nigeria

Abstract

Poor geotechnical and mineralogical properties of soils used for road construction are a significant factor responsible for pavement failures. This is because most soils encountered at failed portions of some pavements do not meet the specifications according to relevant standards. It is with this in mind that this study carried out a systemic review on some residual soils in Nigeria, with a focus on their locations, geotechnical, and mineralogical properties in comparison to standards specified in the Nigerian specification for road and bridges. This study also reviewed how these properties have contributed to various road failures in different regions of the country. It was observed that the geotechnical and mineralogical properties of most residual soils in some regions of Nigeria did not meet up with the standards stipulated by the Nigerian Specification for road materials. Reviews carried out on the place of geotechnical and mineralogical characteristics on various road failures in Nigeria showed that a high volume of research works was carried out in the south-western and southeastern parts of the country compared to the Northern region.