Vol: 1 Issue: 1
Comparative Analysis of the effect of using Groundnut Shell and Rice Husk Waste Ashes for Soil Stabilization
Ibiang Ebri Ibiang, Emmanuel Ewa Ekeng
1. INTRODUCTION
Soil Stabilization is an important technique in civil engineering that aims to improve the soil's engineering qualities such as its durability, decrease compressibility, and boost strength, increasing its load-bearing capacity when used for building and construction. In civil engineering and construction, soil stabilization is essential because it directly affects the strength and longevity of infrastructures such as foundations, embankments, and roadways. Some soils are naturally too weak, unstable, or inappropriate for construction, so soil stabilization becomes necessary. Traditional soil stabilising techniques frequently use chemical additions such as cement, lime, or other similar substances. However, these techniques can be expensive, harmful to the environment, and not always long-term sustainable [6]; as such the need for affordable and ecologically friendly ways to stabilize soil arises. The use of waste materials is one such option that not only solves environmental issues by recycling garbage but also offers a cost-effective way to improve soil [1]. This strategy decreases the use of non-renewable resources and lessens trash disposal concerns, which are in line with sustainable development goals [18].
Rice husk ash (RHA) and groundnut shell ash (GSA) are two waste products that have demonstrated potential for stabilizing soil. Ash from groundnut shells is a waste product that is produced as a result of agriculture. Similar to that, rice husk ash is produced by burning rice husks that would otherwise be thrown away. Due to their high silica content, GSA and RHA may be effective in enhancing the characteristics of soil [5].
The amorphous silica, which has pozzolanic qualities is abundant in GSA and RHA. This can combine with calcium hydroxide to generate cementitious compounds and will in turn lead to an increase in the strength and stability of soils as a result of this pozzolanic reaction [1]. However, based on variables including their origin, makeup, and the particular type of soil, these waste materials' efficacy may differ [6] and as such, the goal of this study is to provide a thorough comparative examination of how GSA and RHA affect soil stabilization. The effects of these waste materials on laterite soil were analysed by determining the soil's unconfined compressive strength, California Bearing Ratio, and maximum dry density. The results of this research will support the responsible use of waste materials in civil engineering and will also lead to sustainable development of construction techniques, supporting international efforts to lessen environmental effects.
2. METHODS
2.1 MATERIALS
The materials for the experimental work are Laterite, groundnut shell ash, rice husk ash and water
i. MIX PROPORTIONS
Laterite Soil, Groundnut Shell ash and rice husk ash were mixed thoroughly to have a uniform and homogenous mixture. The samples were prepared using different combinations of Laterite Soil, Groundnut Shell ash, and rice husk ash as shown in Table I different tests were conducted on each prepared sample and the results were compared with those of the original Laterite Soil.
3 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
3.1 CHARACTERIZATION OF SOIL
Characterization of the soil is the first stage of this study endeavour that gives an overview of the basic characteristics of the soil. It is important to evaluate the initial state before administering any stabilizing drugs. This test gives important details regarding the soil's flexibility and clay content, two important components of soil behaviour. The findings (Table II and Fig I) defined the soil's baseline characteristics and acted as a benchmark for assessing how well waste items stabilize the soil.