Stabilization of Kuttanad clay using marble dust and sisal fiber

Abstract

Construction of engineering structures on clayey soil is highly risky because such soil is susceptible to differential settlements, poor shear strength and high compressibility. So, it needs proper stabilization. Kuttanad clay are soft deposits of fine-grained soil found in the Kuttanad region of Alappuzha district, Kerala. Here construction is very difficult as the soil is poor in drainage and strength properties. The main aim of this work is to identify the various properties of lower Kuttanad clay and stabilizing the soil using marble dust powder. Marble dust is a waste product collected from marble industry. The major constituent of marble dust is Calcium Carbonate and its powder has high percentage of lime content so it can be used as an effective material for the stabilization of clayey soil. Varying percentages of marble dust are added to soil. Optimum moisture content, Maximum dry density and Unconfined compressive strength (UCS) were determined by laboratory testing and Optimum marble dust content for stabilizing the soil is determined. Sisal fiber of length 1cm in varying percentages (0.25%,0.5%,0.75%,1%) is added to clay with optimum marble dust content. Standard proctor compaction test and unconfined compressive strength test were carried out. UCS value increased with increment in fiber from 0.25 to 0.75%. The maximum strength is obtained at optimum 9% MD and 0.75% SF content.