Comparative Evaluation of Geotechnical Properties of Soil in a Municipal Dumpsite and Undisturbed Land for Use in Foundations (A Case Study of Osogbo, Osun State Capital, Nigeria)
1,*Adetunji,O. I., 1Momoh, A. D, 1Oyelayo, T. E., and 1Ayininuola, G.M..
1,Department of Civil Engineering, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
DOI: 10.36108/laujoces/6202.61.0220
Abstract
Large volumes of municipal solid waste are generated daily in Osogbo, Nigeria, a rapidly growing city. These wastes, comprising heterogeneous materials, are indiscriminately deposited on soil surfaces, leading to environmental degradation and potential alteration of soil stability and foundation performance. However, limited experimental data exist to support engineering decision-making in the metropolis. This study evaluates the geotechnical properties of soils from five municipal dumpsites and adjacent undisturbed locations in Osogbo. Ten samples were collected, comprising dumpsite soils (A) and nearby undisturbed soils (B), and subjected to laboratory tests including moisture content, specific gravity, particle size distribution, Atterberg limits, compaction, California Bearing Ratio (CBR), shear strength, and in-situ cone penetration tests (CPT). Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA in R. Results show that waste decomposition generally reduces moisture content and specific gravity, while influencing soil gradation, consistency, and compaction characteristics. Dumpsite soils exhibited higher maximum dry density (MDD), CBR, and shear strength, but were predominantly gap-graded. CPT results indicate the need for deeper foundations to reach competent strata. ANOVA confirmed significant differences among key parameters. The findings highlight the altered geotechnical behavior of dumpsite soils and the potential risks associated with shallow foundations without proper ground improvement, providing valuable insights for waste management, environmental protection, urban planning, and sustainable development in Osogbo metropolis.
Keywords: Municipal Solid Waste, Index Properties, Geotechnical Properties, Dumpsite Soil, Foundation Design..