Micronized PET as a green additive for lime stabilization of swelling soil

Abstract

The use of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) as an additive in the stabilization of swelling soils is a sustainable option considering the increasing environmental pollution caused by improper disposal of plastic waste. Given the limited capacity of recycling programs, incorporating these materials in construction can be a viable solution. In the conducted study, compacted mixtures of soil-lime-PET were prepared at different dry unit weights (14, 15 and 16 kN/m³). Micronized PET was used with percentages of 5% and 10%, while hydrated lime was added at 0%, 2%, 4%, and 6%, both by dry mass. These mixtures were subjected to one-dimensional swelling tests. The results showed that the PET content, lime content, and porosity are significant factors influencing the behavior of compacted mixtures. The index porosity/volumetric lime content adjusted by an exponent (ƞ/(Liv)-0,26) can link the one-dimensional swelling behavior. The combination of both materials creates a sustainable solution for controlling soil swelling.