Geotechnical Properties Of Soil Research Articles

Increasing Unconfined Compressive Strength of Soft Clay Stabilized with Coir Fiber and Bagasse Ash Mix

Increasing coir fiber and bagasse ash waste can cause environmental degradation. Utilization of this waste in construction work is still rarely done. Coir fiber is a natural material with the highest coefficient of friction and tensile strength. Bagasse ash has a high silica content and is suitable for use as pozzolan. Soil stabilization with a combination of both is expected to improve the geotechnical properties of soft soil. This research aims to analyze the unconfined compressive strength (UCS) and secant modulus of soft clay stabilized with coir fiber-bagasse ash mix. Coir fiber as much as 0.75% and ash with varying contents: 0%, 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, and 10% of the total weight of the mixture. The specimens were cured for 28 days. UCS tests were conducted according to ASTM D2166-16 with the axial stress and strain relationship curve results to determine the UCS and secant modulus. The results showed that the UCS value and secant modulus value increased along with increasing bagasse ash content. The maximum value was achieved at 8% ash variation with a UCS value of 472.45 kPa (an increase of 382% from a soil-coir fiber mix) and a secant modulus value of 21.94 MPa (an increase of 571% from a mixture of soil and coir fiber). The research results show that this mixed soil is classified as hard soil, which can withstand high loads. It is hoped that the results of this research can become a reference for stabilizing soft soil in the field.

Development of geotechnical properties geo-database for soil in Kano metropolis to enhance building construction

Building collapse is a prevalent and concerning issue that resulted in significant loss of lives and properties in many places in Nigeria including Kano state and determination of Geotechnical properties of soil could play a crucial role in preventing building collapse. This study uses Geographic Information System (GIS) methodologies to create a geospatial database of soil properties in Kano Metropolis. The database, created using Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) and spatial interpolation techniques, provides 212 sets of soil properties being meticulously mapped across the study area. These meticulously generated maps illustrate various soil characteristics prevalent in the metropolis, offering invaluable insights for preliminary designs and construction planning for buildings within Kano Metropolis. The soils in this area are predominantly classified as CL (Clay of low plasticity), SC (Sandy Clay), and SM (Silty Sand) using Unified Soil Classification System (USCS). The moisture content spans from 2.01 to 46%, specific gravity within the range of 2.32 to 2.75, liquid limits varying between 17.2 and 45%, plastic limits within the range of 10.1 to 40.5%, and linear shrinkage values spanning from 1 to 13%. Furthermore, the shear strength parameters of the soil across the study area varies. The unit weight varies between 15.61 and 22.16 kN/ m3 , the cohesion (c) values ranging from 1.28 to 29.1 kN/m2 , and the angle of internal friction (ϕ) spanning from 5.5° to 32.2°. Despite variations in ultimate and allowable bearing capacity with depth, the ultimate bearing capacity (qult) generally ranges between 108 and 1150 kN/m2 , with the corresponding allowable bearing capacity (qall) falling between 40 and 343 kN/m2 . This research provides valuable geospatial knowledge to engineers, architects, and construction professionals in Kano Metropolis, enhancing decision-making and project planning precision, ultimately contributing to sustainable development and growth of Kano metropolis.

Exploring the Influence of Plastic Powder Incorporation on Geotechnical Properties of Expansive Soil Stabilized with Granite Powder for Building Applications

An experimental study was undertaken to investigate the effect of plastic and granite waste powder on the geotechnical performance of expansive soil, using different mix ratios. The soil studied is Hachem, in the northwestof Algeria. In this context, first reinforcing the plastic powder with granite powder, then add the mixture to the expansive soil. The percentage of plastic powder is (0%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%) and reinforced at 2%, 4%, 6% and 8% with granite powder. The experimental results showed a gradual decrease in liquid limits, swell potentials, and swelling pressure as the proportions of plastic and granite powder increase. In terms of the results obtained by reducing swelling and swelling pressure values and increasing unconfined compressive strength (UCS) tests and ductility values, this mixture of waste plastics and granite can be of great importance in improving the mechanical properties of samples.

CORN-COB ASH AS PARTIAL REPLACEMENT OF CEMENT FOR STABILIZATION OF LATERITE SOIL

Properties of underlying soils and borrowed soil samples are some of the key factors that determine the performance rate of roads. Most of the underlying soils possess some characteristics that make them unsuitable for use. There are available agricultural waste products in most rural settlements which can be used to treat unsuitable soils. This research examined the use of corn cob ash (CCA) as an admixture to cement on some selected geotechnical properties of laterite soil. The choice of the A-7-5 class of laterite soil is due to its general rating as poor material for subgrade and other layers of road pavement by the classification system of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). Cement was gradually added to the soil sample in steps of 2% from 0% to 10% by weight of the soil sample and its effect on the plasticity of the sample was examined. The addition of cement performed optimally on the soil’s plasticity at 4% which was used to form different mixtures of cement and CCA having a total sum not exceeding 4%. The additives were added to the soil sample which was subjected to laboratory tests such as compaction, California bearing ratio (CBR) and unconfined compressive strength (UCS) compacted with the efforts of 596kN/m2 and 1192kN/m2. The combination of 2% cement and 2% CCA on the soil sample improved the plasticity index and UCS properties of the soil to its optimal level while 3-1 and 4-0 cement-CCA performed optimally for CBR and compaction respectively. Thus, it was concluded that CCA performed optimally with cement at a ratio varying between 4:0 to 3:1 total percentage not exceeding 4% of the weight of the soil sample.

Partial Replacement of Reactive Magnesium with GGBS has an Impact on the Geotechnical Properties of Soil

This study is an attempt to examine proper usage of GGBS in the field of Civil Engineering to reduce existing dumping problems and escalate the geotechnical properties of inadequate soil. According to laboratory findings, certain soil qualities that were treated with MgO and GGBS at specific concentrations exhibited remarkably beneficial changes when compared to natural soil. The compressive strength value of modified soil improved, showing increase in the bearing capacity of treated soil The increased CBR value of modified soil both in soaked (4 days) and unsoaked condition indicates the economical designing of flexible pavement by reducing the thickness of base and subbase layers.

Geotechnical Properties of Cement-Stabilized Lateritic Soil with Bamboo Leaf Ash in the Takie Area of Ogbomoso

Geotechnical Properties of Cement-Stabilized Lateritic Soil with Bamboo Leaf Ash in the Takie Area of Ogbomoso

Electrical Resistivity Behavior of Saline Soil under Low-Temperature Conditions

Freeze-thaw cycling of frozen soils is known to be the cause of various engineering failures of infrastructure in cold regions. Researchers found that electrical resistivity methods outperform traditional ground surveying methods in frozen soils for their greater convenience and cost-effectiveness. However, detailed investigation into the relationship between the electrical resistivity of soil and a variety of soil properties is still needed. In this study, a series of laboratory experiments using the Wenner method were conducted to determine the relationship between soil electrical resistivity and soil geotechnical properties such as initial water content and pore fluid concentration under freeze-thaw conditions. Cylindrical soil samples undergo artificial freeze-thaw cycles to a temperature as low as −70°C, and electrical resistivity and temperature values are recorded simultaneously. Measurement results are summarized for curve fitting, and a statistical model showing relationship between electrical resistivity and temperature during freezing and thawing was given. Above freezing point, the log of electrical resistivity had a linear relationship with temperature. Below freezing point and above −15°C, the log of electrical resistivity had a square root relationship with temperature. Different trends in electrical resistivity change in extremely low-temperature regions (from −15°C to −70°C) are also discussed. In extremely low-temperature regions, the electrical resistivity of frozen soils did not monotonously increase with lower temperature, which may be because of increasing salt concentration in the unfrozen water phase. The findings of this study are expected to bring more insights to frozen soil structure, and assist in geophysical surveying in cold regions and construction methods utilizing ground freezing.

Geotechnical interpolation methodology for determining intermediate values of soil properties

The article considers the application of geotechnical interpolation using ArcGIS software to determine the intermediate geotechnical properties of soils at a construction site in a residential complex in Astana, Esil district. The study is based on data from 8 boreholes drilled to a depth of 26 meters, and the purpose of the work is to use the kriging interpolation method to determine intermediate soil properties. The raw data include the results of analyzing the physical and mechanical properties of the soils from the boreholes, which served as a basis for interpolation and mapping. The results of the study are presented in the form of maps showing the intermediate mechanical properties of the soil at depths of 5, 10 and 15 m. The maps allow obtaining more accurate intermediate values. The proposed methodology not only facilitates the work of designers, but also provides data for realistic scenarios of soil strength and deformation characteristics, which significantly influences the selection of optimal types and sizes of foundations.

CONSTRUCTION OF SUSTAINABLE ROADS USING THE MIXTURE OF ALKALI-ACTIVATED RICE HUSK ASH AND FLY ASH

Soil stabilization, crucial for enhancing the stability and engineering properties of soil, has been the subject of extensive research utilizing mechanical and chemical methods. This study delves into the challenges faced in traditional soil subgrade stabilization methods, stemming from factors such as soil erosion, inadequate load-bearing capacity, and susceptibility to environmental conditions. These challenges have prompted the exploration of innovative solutions for road subgrade soil stabilization. Our primary motivation stems from the limitations of conventional techniques and the pressing need to address issues like resource exploitation and environmental pollution. Geopolymers, specifically alkaline-activated materials, have emerged as a promising alternative for soil stabilization. This research investigates the effects of geopolymer blended with rice husk ash (RHA) and fly ash (FA) on various geotechnical properties of natural and admixed black cotton soil. The soil is replaced with admixtures ranging from 0% to 30% of blended geopolymer by weight. The study provides a comprehensive analysis, focusing on quantifiable improvements in soil properties through numerical results. The investigations consistently reveal that the application of geopolymer as a soil stabilizer results in notable improvements in the geotechnical properties like index properties, strength properties, resistance to penetration (CBR), etc., of problematic soil. Comparative analysis with traditional methods underscores the superiority of the proposed geopolymer blend, showcasing its innovation, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. The findings of this study contribute to the advancement of soil stabilization techniques, specifically in the context of geopolymer applications. For future work, this study suggests an in-depth exploration of geopolymer-stabilized soil's long-term durability and environmental impact. Additionally, further research could focus on optimizing the geopolymer blend ratios for varying soil types and environmental conditions.

Investigation of geotechnical and microstructure characteristics of gypsum soil using ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS), fly ash, and lime

This study investigates the synergistic effects of Ground Granulated Blast-furnace Slag (GGBS), lime, and fly ash on improving the geotechnical properties of gypsum soil. Gypsum soil samples, constituting 84% of the mixture, were blended with lime and GGBS in proportions ranging from 0% to 16%. These mixtures underwent curing for 1, 7, 14, 28, 56, and 90 days. Tests and analytical techniques elucidated mechanisms responsible for strength improvements. Findings revealed that when fly ash was used alone, there was no significant increase in Uniaxial Compressive Strength (UCS). However, fly ash expedited essential pozzolanic reactions for silicate gel formation. The most substantial increase in UCS occurred in the 28-day samples, contrasting with lower gains in the 7, 14, 56, and 90-day periods. Enhanced strength in lime-GGBS-gypsum soil mixtures before 28 days was attributed to cation exchange and initial flocculation. In the 28-day specimens, increased strength was linked to ettringite crystal and silica gel growth. Microstructural analysis confirmed Ettringite (E) crystal growth within inter-crystalline and pore spaces. Cementitious compounds like CH, CSHH, CHS, CAH, and CASH displayed growth. The rearrangement of the clay mineral matrix, coupled with added sulfate, contributed to enhanced gypsum soil strength. Interestingly, decreased UCS in 56-day samples indicated increased ettringite crystal growth, resulting in reduced strength. Elemental analysis through Energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) revealed shifts in Al: Si, Ca: Si, and Al: Ca ratios. The Al: Si ratio reduction confirmed the formation of more cementitious compounds in 90-day samples. Additionally, the Al: Si ratio in 28-day cured samples exhibited a significant decrease, signifying accelerated initial strength in lime and GGBS mixtures. The presence of sulfur (S) confirmed ettringite crystal formation, underscoring the intricate interplay between additives and curing durations, shedding light on mechanisms enhancing gypsum soil's geotechnical properties.

Alkali-activation of agro-industrial waste for stabilization of lateritic soils

This paper focuses on enhancing the geotechnical properties of lateritic gravelly soil (LGS) through chemical stabilization using an alkali-activated binder produced with sugarcane bagasse ash (SBA) and a sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution. For this, mechanical strength tests, specifically unconfined compressive strength (qu), and durability tests, including accumulated loss mass (ALM) and volumetric variation (ΔV), were conducted on compacted specimens of the LGS-SBA blends. These specimens were molded with varying concentrations of NaOH solution (ranging from 3 to 10 Molarity) and different SBA content (ranging from 3 to 10 %). The physical–chemical characteristics of the optimal blend were further analyzed through Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS). The results demonstrate that the stabilization of LGS with an alkali-activated binder modifies compaction properties and enhances the mechanical strength and durability of LGS. Hence, a good correlation between qu and ALM was established, enabling the formulation of practical engineering equations to predict the behavior of the blends. Based on the results, it can be concluded that the stabilized LGS exhibits promising potential as an alternative geomaterial for use in subbase/base layers for pavements exposed to harsh climatic conditions in the low-lying Amazon region.

Importance of geotechnical soil properties for precision Forest activities in a karst area

Some soil behaviors change significantly as water content varies over time. The particle size distribution of soils has a direct impact on mechanical properties such as soil water content, resistance to dispersion, swelling-shrinkage, fluidity, plasticity, and stickiness. This study was conducted to investigate the usability of Atterberg limits, consistency index and coefficient of linear extensibility (COLE) in the temporal planning of ecosystem restoration activities such as silvicultural interventions, tillage, afforestation, and the construction of forest roads, etc. Surface soil samples were collected from the sections numbered 263, 264, 266, 268, 317, 318, 319, 323, 324,325 and 366 of the degraded forest of the Andırın forestry operations department. The COLE, liquid limit (LL), plastic limit (PL), plasticity index and consistency index values of soil samples were determined. The LL values ranged from 17.5 to 62.4%, the PL values from 8.2 to 46.8% and the PI values from 6.4 to 15.5. The highest COLE value (0.13) was recorded in the section 318, while the lowest COLE value (0.03) was in section 325.The LL and PL values have a positive linear relationship with clay and organic matter content. All sections have karstic characteristics, but the mechanical characteristics of the soils differ significantly between the sections. Silvicultural interventions carried out especially in section 318, which had the lowest consistency index (Ic = 0.70), and sections 263, 264, 317 and 319, where the consistency index is >2,should take mechanical properties into account, and the planting time intervals should be determined, accordingly for sustainable forestry.

The Implications of Geotechnical Properties of Soil in the Development of Gully Erosion in Ukpor, Southeastern Nigeria

Gully erosion is a devastating form of soil degradation threatening environmental sustainability, socio-economic development, and human well-being worldwide. The Southeastern region of Nigeria, particularly Ukpor, is prone to gully erosion, which has resulted in the loss of infrastructure, agricultural land, and human settlements. While various factors contribute to gully erosion, the soil’s geotechnical properties remain an important aspect that has been given limited attention. This study investigates the implications of geotechnical properties of soils in the development of gully erosion in Ukpor. A comprehensive approach was adopted, combining drone-aided geologic field mapping, laboratory tests and spatial analysis. Soil samples were collected from different locations at 0.5 – 1m depth, and laboratory tests (Particle Size Distribution (PSD) and Atterberg Limits) were conducted to determine the soil’s geotechnical properties. The results reveal that the study area is underlain by the Ogwashi-Asaba formation. From the Particle Size Distribution and Atterberg Limit tests, the soils in the area were classified into 3; Group A (coarse-grained clayey sands), Group B (coarse-grained poorly graded to clayey sands) and Group C (poorly-graded coarse-grained sands). The Plasticity Index (PI) of Group A ranges from 13.4 – 18.2 while the Liquid Limit (LL) ranges from 27.8 to 34.9. The PI of Group B ranges from 15.49 to 17.35 while the LL ranges from 30.7 to 35.7, From the results, Group C soils were most affected by gullying. Given the above, the underlying soil strata of Ukpor metropolis could be classified as low plasticity soil, thus, highly susceptible to erosion. The results show a significant correlation between soil geotechnical properties and gully erosion susceptibility. The results have pivotal implications for soil conservation, sustainable land management, and infrastructure development in Ukpor and similar regions. The study recommends soil stabilization techniques and vegetation management strategies to mitigate gully erosion.

Expansive Soil Stabilization Using Steel Factory Dust

One of the geotechnical-engineering roles is soil stabilization, because it affects the long-term strength and functionality of structures. For suitability and durability of expansive soils for construction projects, shear strength, bearing capacity and other characteristics can be enhanced through the stabilization process. This study is focused on the effects of steel factory dust (SFD) as an additive on the improvement of the undesired geotechnical properties of expansive soil (CH soil). A series of laboratory tests were conducted on intact and treated samples. SFD was added by 0, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10% to the dry soil. The conducted tests are consistency, specific-gravity, modified Proctor compaction, swelling-pressure and -percent and unconfined compression tests. The addition of SFD reduced the values of liquid and plastic limits, plasticity index, modulus of elasticity and allowable bearing capacity. Significantly, the 10% SFD addition significantly reduced swelling percent and pressure by 26.8% and 25.4%, respectively while notably increasing the unconfined compressive strength (UCS) from 475 MPa to 629 MPa. SFD was found to be a successful waste material in improving expansive soil by using 10% as the best addition percent, which usefully saves the environment. KEYWORDS: Expansive soil, Stabilization, Steel factory dust, Swelling, Unconfined compressive strength. INTRODUCTIO

Harnessing waste glass powder for soil modification

The challenge posed by weak soil, characterized by low bearing capacity and shear strength, is significant in civil engineering, impacting road construction, structural foundations, and irrigation systems. Recycling non-biodegradable waste, especially glass waste, presents a promising solution for environmental sustainability and cost-effectiveness in construction. This study aims to improve the geotechnical properties of weak soils by stabilizing them with Waste Glass Powder (WGP) and exploring novel construction applications. The experimental investigations determined the optimal incorporation of glass powder into soil samples, ranging from 2% to 10% by dry weight. Geotechnical tests, including sieving analysis, Atterberg limits determination, California Bearing Ratio (CBR) tests, and Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) assessments, were conducted to assess the effect of glass powder addition. At a 10% glass powder content, the Plasticity Limit (PL), Liquid Limit (LL), and Plasticity Index (PI) were 18.4%, 33.9%, and 15.5%, respectively. The addition of glass powder significantly improved CBR values, reaching peaks of 10.5% (soaked CBR) and 22.3% (unsoaked CBR). Moreover, UCS increased to 135.6 kN/m2 with 8% glass powder, decreasing slightly to 120.8 kN/m2 with 10% glass powder. These findings highlight waste glass as a viable additive for enhancing the engineering properties of weak soils, promoting sustainable construction practices.

Relationship between Geoelectrical and Geotechnical Index Properties of Soils

Relationship between Geoelectrical and Geotechnical Index Properties of Soils

Geotechnical Properties of Cement-Stabilized Lateritic Soil with Bamboo Leaf Ash in the Takie Area of Ogbomoso

This paper presents findings related to the impact of Bamboo Leaf Ash (BLA) and cement stabilization on the lateritic soil in the Takie Area of Ogbomoso. The study employed various testing methodologies to assess soil characteristics, particle size distribution, and California Bearing Ratio (CBR) under different stabilization conditions. Chemical analysis compared Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) and BLA, demonstrating distinct differences between the two materials. The results of particle size distribution affirmed an intermediate, moderately graded soil with low clay content primarily comprising sand and gravel. The CBR tests unveiled the considerable influence of cement and BLA percentages on the soil's bearing capacity in both unsoaked and soaked conditions. Notably, the introduction of 2% cement displayed the highest CBR value, especially when paired with 10% BLA, showing promising results for soil strength enhancement. Conversely, the impact of BLA on soil strength in soaked conditions was less pronounced. This research provides valuable insights into the use of BLA and cement stabilization in lateritic soil, contributing to the understanding of soil behavior for engineering applications. Keywords: Geotechnical Properties, Cement Stabilization, Lateritic Soil, Bamboo Leaf Ash, California Bearing Ratio. Aims Research Journal Reference Format: Obakin, O. A., Oladunmoye, O.M., Ajayi, S.A.. & Taiwo J.B. (2023): Geotechnical Properties of Cement-Stabilized Lateritic Soil with Bamboo Leaf Ash in the Takie Area of Ogbomoso. Advances in Multidisciplinary and Scientific Research Journal Vol. 9. No. 4. Pp 19-26. . www.isteams.net/aimsjournal. dx.doi.org/10.22624/AIMS/V9N4P2

Enhancing Geotechnical Properties of Clayey Soil with Recycled Plastic and Glass Waste

Enhancing Geotechnical Properties of Clayey Soil with Recycled Plastic and Glass Waste

Sustainable soil treatment: Investigating the efficacy of carrageenan biopolymer on the geotechnical properties of soil

The employment of novel biopolymers offers geotechnical engineers a diverse range of materials to choose from, depending on the specific requirements of different projects. Regarding the promotion of environmentally friendly materials in the construction industry, this study introduces carrageenan as a novel biopolymer for soil improvement. The research also includes a comparative study of carrageenan's performance with xanthan which is the most commonly used biopolymer in geotechnical engineering. Unconfined compressive tests (UCS) were conducted to evaluate the performance of biopolymer-treated soil samples over a variety of effective parameters including biopolymer content, moisture content, curing time, soil particle size, and durability under wet-dry cycles. In order to explore the soil size effect, kaolinite silt and sand were combined in various proportions and treated with different biopolymer ratios to enhance strength development. The optimal mix of each biopolymer-treated soil was then exposed to five cycles of wetting and drying. Carrageenan improved the compressive strength of untreated soils in all cases, for example 3.4 times for 0.5% (wb/ws) of biopolymer. In higher proportions of kaolinite, carrageenan performed considerably better than xanthan gum in terms of compressive and shear strength. In addition, with an emphasis on confining pressures, static triaxial experiments were conducted to examine the effectiveness of carrageenan, by which it was shown that carrageenan outperforms xanthan in terms of shear strength especially in the fine-grained soil. The mechanism and chemical interaction behind the significant performance of carrageenan in binding soil grains, increasing mechanical strength and improving durability of the soil was also studied through FTIR analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. It can be concluded that carrageenan can be considered as a sustainable alternative to conventional materials such as cement and lime.

Utilization of Coffee Husk Ash on the Geotechnical Properties of Gypsum-Stabilized Expansive Clayey Soil

Expansive clayey soils (CSs) expand and become softer as moisture content increases, but they get harder and stronger as they dry out. The earth’s swelling and shrinkage characteristics under varying moisture conditions make roads built on expansive CS, in particular, vulnerable to early degradation. In this investigation, coffee husk ash (CHA), gypsum, and a blend of the two additives (G-CHA) were used in experimental tests to treat expansive CS. This study aims to evaluate experimentally the potential of expansive soil stabilization using different additives: CHA, gypsum, and a combination of gypsum and CHA. Five different percentages of CHA (5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25%), three percentages of gypsum (3%, 6%, and 9%), and variable percentages of their combinations were used to stabilize the soil for pavement subgrade application. Atterberg limits, compaction, linear shrinkage (LS), swelling, unconfined compressive strength (UCS), and California bearing ratio (CBR) tests were performed on treated and virgin soil specimens at 3, 7, 14, 28, and 56-day curing times. Results showed that CHA additives effectively reduced the plasticity, LS, and swell potential in addition to increasing the maximum dry unit weight, UCS, and CBR. It was determined that the UCS and CBR values for the 6% stabilized gypsum soil increased by 28.95% and 19.54%, respectively, and reduced by 41% of the plastic index parameter after the addition of 15% CHA. Based on the evaluation of the results, an optimum mixture of 6% gypsum and 15% CHA (SG6C15) stabilized soil can be used in pavement subgrade applications as it achieved the minimum strength target. The performance of CHA-treated samples as subgrade material is superior to that of untreated virgin soil. Because of the stronger subgrade, smaller pavement layers result in a thinner pavement structure.