Effect of kerosene contamination on the physical and mechanical properties of sandy soil

Abstract

Oil contamination can affect the mechanical and physical properties of soil, making its reuse a challenge. In the present study, the effect of kerosene contamination on two types of poorly graded sand (S1 and S2) was investigated. Geotechnical tests for compaction, direct shear and constant head permeability were conducted. The compaction test revealed that dry density increased at a 3% and 6% kerosene content for S1 and S2 soil, respectively. A further increase in kerosene content caused the dry density to decrease for both S1 and S2. The optimum moisture content of kerosene-contaminated soil samples decreased. The direct shear test showed that kerosene contamination increased cohesion and decreased the internal friction angle and shear strength. The permeability test results indicated that kerosene caused a reduction in the permeability of the soil studied.