INVESTIGATION OF CALIFORNIA BEARING RATIO VALUE OF BAMA RIDGE SOIL ADMIXED WITH METAKAOLIN

Abstract

The study focused on assessing the impact of Metakaolin on the properties of Bama Ridge Soil in the Maiduguri region and its environs. Soil samples, collected using a disturbed sampling method from two distinct locations, were transported to the laboratory in polythene bags to prevent moisture loss. According to the American Association of States Highway and Transport Officials (AASHTO) and the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS), the soil was classified as A-3(0) and CL. The California Bearing Ratio (CBR) values ranged from 19.23% to 26.66% for soaked conditions and 25.01% to 32.46% for un-soaked conditions, indicating its suitability as sub-grade material. The study suggested that a 15% Metakaolin content would suffice for lightly trafficked roads. However, caution was advised against using the soil as sub-base material for roads with heavy traffic density, as CBR values slightly exceeded 30%. This implies that while the soil shows promise for specific construction applications, it may not be optimal for handling the substantial loads associated with high traffic volumes.