Synergetic Application of Oyster Shell Powder and Corn Cob Ash for the Valorisation of Geotechnical Properties of Lateritic Soil
1Osuolale, O. M. ²Oluremi, J. R. ³* Adeniji, A. A and ⁴Onadiran S.O..
Department of Civil Engineering, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
DOI: 10.36108/laujoces/5202.51.0101
Abstract
This study investigates the synergetic effect of Oyster Shell Powder (OSP) and Corn Cob Ash (CCA) as alternative sustainable materials on the stabilization of laterite soil with the primary objective of improving engineering properties of laterite soil. Soil samples obtained from an existing burrow pit at Gray International School along Oshogbo road, Ede, Osun State was stabilized with 0 – 12% and 0 – 8% of OSP and CCA at 3% and 2% increment, respectively, by dry weight of the soil samples. Sieve analysis, Natural Moisture content, Specific gravity, Atterberg (liquid and plastic limit), Compaction, California Bearing Ratio (CBR), and Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) tests were carried out in accordance with British standards. Results showed that Oshogbo road laterite is an A-7-6 soil. The combined OSP and CCA significantly enhances the Unconfined compressive strength ranges from 300 to 320 kN/m² with 6% and 8% optimum combination of OSP and CCA content thereby reduces the plasticity index of the laterite soil making it more suitable for soil stabilization in road constructions. The utilization of OSP and CCA serves as an effective and eco-friendly stabilizing materials that, offering a viable solution for road construction and other civil engineering projects in regions with abundant agricultural and marine waste.
Keywords: Compaction, Corn cob ash, Laterite soil, Oyster powder, Strength