Stabilization of Lateritic Soil Using Hydrated Lime and Calcium Carbide Residue

Abstract

Soil stabilization means alteration of the soils properties to meet the specified engineering requirements. Hydrated lime and calcium carbide residue were used to stabilize lateritic soil collected from a location in Maikunkele suburb of Minna, Niger State. The two additives were proportioned 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% of dry weight. From the results, the soil is classified as A-2-4 (0). The maximum dry density reduced with increase in the lime content and for Calcium Carbide content at 5% and 20% but increases at 10-15%. Also, the optimum moisture content increased for increasing lime content and reduced with higher lime content. The combination of hydrated lime and calcium carbide residue increased the CBR from 30% to 136%, and UCS from 475 kN/m2 to 2803 kN/m2 after 7 days curing. The optimum strength of stabilized soil was obtained at 15% hydrated lime and 10% calcium carbide residue addition respectively. The use of calcium carbide residue and hydrated lime will provide an effective way of disposing the former and lead to in road construction.