Expansive Soil Stabilization Using Steel Factory Dust

Abstract

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