Stabilization strategy of normal and chrome tanning effluent mixed subsoil: a novelty to enhance the soil characteristics

Abstract

Soil stabilisation is a unique method to effectively and accurately find a solution to the issues caused by loose subsoil. This research investigates the problems of uncontrolled industrial effluent disposal, mainly from tannery enterprises, which presents severe environmental problems in emerging nations due to soil properties changing and large regions being unfit for cultivation and human habitation. The study uses Atterberg's limits, sieve analysis, and direct shear testing to examine the effects of untreated tannery effluents on soil parameters. The findings show that the soil's shear strength, moisture content, and flexibility have all significantly decreased. Lime and waste stone powder were added to lessen these impacts, and this improved soil stability was shown by an increase in the values of all the variables. For efficient soil remediation, the study suggests using waste stone powder and lime in the following proportions: 0%, 3%, 6%, and 9%. Combining lime stabilisation methods with industrial by-products like slag and fly ash opens up new possibilities for enhancing the geotechnical characteristics of polluted soils. This study emphasises how important it is to use customised geotechnical design techniques to handle soil contamination issues in infrastructure and foundation projects, especially in areas where the leather industry predominates.