Abstract:
A clayey soil sample collected from Barkindo, situated along the Lamurde-Adamawa road in the Numan Local Government area of Adamawa State, Nigeria, was subjected to stabilization using varying percentages of cement (0%, 2%, 4%, and 6%), each admixed with ceramic waste dust (CWD) in proportions of 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%. The untreated clay soil underwent index properties and microstructural tests, while compaction and unconfined compressive strength tests were performed on both the untreated clay soil and the soil admixtures with varying proportions of cement and CWD.
The index properties assessment revealed that the soil belonged to the high plasticity clay category according to the unified soil classification system. Microstructural analysis identified major constituents within the clay, including quartz, microcline, kaolinite, brushite, and gypsum. As cement and CWD content increased, the maximum dry densities (MDD) experienced a reduction, accompanied by a corresponding decrease in optimum moisture content (OMC).
In terms of unconfined compressive strength (UCS), the values exhibited an upward trend with increasing CWD content up to 30% when combined with a specific cement dosage. Subsequently, beyond this point, the UCS values showed a decline. This signifies that the optimal proportion of CWD for achieving maximum UCS strength was determined to be 30%. A notable peak of 2700 kN/m² was attained with the combination of 6% cement and 30% CWD following a 90-day curing period. This achievement satisfies the requirements for a stabilized material suitable as a base course for heavily trafficked roads. Furthermore, the UCS demonstrated substantial growth with extended curing duration, indicating the presence of a Pozzolanic reaction within the mixture.
In conclusion, the findings demonstrate that a 30% CWD content offers effective stabilization for cement-stabilized clay soil. This research highlights the potential of ceramic waste dust as a valuable resource for enhancing soil stabilization, contributing to the development of robust road infrastructure.
Impact of Ceramic Waste on Geotechnical Attributes of Cement-Stabilized Clay Soil,   GET MORE, ACTUARIAL SCIENCE PROJECT TOPICS AND MATERIALS
