EFFECTS OF LIME AND WOOD ASH ON GEOTECHNICAL PROPERTIES OF LATERITE

Abstract

This study is on the effects of lime and wood ash on the geotechnical properties of laterite. Classification tests including Atterberg limit and grain-size analysis were performed on the sample in the natural state and when stabilized with lime and wood ash. Unsoaked CBR tests and compaction tests were carried out to establish the analysis parameters needed for the study. Lime and wood ash were added in 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10% by weight of sample. The natural soil sample had a maximum dry density (MDD) of 1665.0 kgm-3 and optimum moisture content (OMC) of 18.8%, the natural soil has CBR of 25.6%. Controls were made 0% lime and wood ash and another at 2% each of lime and wood ash. The optimum moisture percentage of stabilization was obtained at 6% for both stabilizers while results also indicated that 4% lime sample had the lowest optimum moisture content and 4% wood ash had the lowest maximum dry density. The value of CBR at 2% lime and wood ash was found to be lower than stabilizations at 4% lime and wood ash. The results revealed that the CBR values of the soil sample were generally better when stabilized with lime, while MDD of the sample was better with wood ash stabilization.