Study on Strength Characteristics of Soil with Agro Waste

Background/Objectives: Soil stabilization is one of the methods used when the given site conditions does not have desirable strength characteristics to support structures, railways and roads. It is the process for improving the soil properties by methods of mechanical or chemical, to produce an soil material which has all the required engineering properties. Application of solid waste disposal (Industrial or Agro waste) for soil stabilization is a significant which serves various benefits to the environment. Methods/Statistical Analysis: In this study the properties of weak soil is improved with the addition of Rice Husk Ash (RHA) of varying percentages of 3, 6, 9 and 12%. The sample was compacted at maximum dry density with the addition of OMC. A series of laboratory experiment has been conducted on expansive soil blended with Rice Husk Ash in 3%, 6%, 9%, 12% and 15% by weight of dry soil. Findings: Unconfined compressive and CBR values of soil increased with the addition of rice husk ash. From the UCC test result, showing that the percentage increase in UCS is 242% and the decrease in swell value from 75 to 45 for the addition of 12% RHA. The study giving the most relevant results by addition of Rice Husk Ash (RHA) upto12% in soil sample. Variations in mineralogical composition analysed by SEM and XRD studies clearly indicate the variation in soil structure formation, due to the chemical reactions initiated by the agro waste mixed in soil. Application/ Improvement: The Rice Husk Ash has a potential to improve the strength characteristics of expansive soil and it reduces the swelling potential of soil. Use of RHA in soil stabilisation is economic; eco friendly and it also solve the disposal problem.