Enhancing Sustainable Stabilization of Black Cotton Soil with Pond Ash, GGBS and Crab Shell Powder: An Experimental Investigation
摘要
Black Cotton (BC) soil presents considerable difficulties in construction owing to its pronounced shrink-swell characteristics, resulting in substantial infrastructure failures, including foundation fissures and pavement degradation. BC soil, which is mostly made up of montmorillonite and clay minerals, has low strength and load-bearing capacity, necessitating stabilization for long-term construction. Conventional stabilizers such as lime and cement work, but they are costly, bad for the environment, and produce a lot of carbon dioxide gas when made. Moreover, their long-term endurance in expansive soils is undermined by moisture-induced volumetric alterations. Eco-friendly and affordable stabilization options are essential to improve soil strength, reduce environmental impact, and promote sustainable infrastructure development because BC soil is widely available in places like India, Australia, and the USA. This study investigates the potential of crab shell powder ash (CSP), an organic waste stabilizer, and industrial byproducts ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) and Pond Ash (PA) as sustainable substitutes for BC soil stabilization. The geotechnical and engineering qualities of BC soil were assessed in both drenched and unsoaked circumstances after different amounts (5%–50%) of these components were added. Key characteristics, such as Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS), Free Swell Index (FSI), and California Bearing Ratio (CBR), were evaluated with Optimum Moisture Content (OMC) and Maximum Dry Density (MDD) to assess densification. With best results at 40% PA (BCPA40), 30% GGBS (BCGG30), and 10% CSP (BCCSP10), the results show notable increases in soil strength and swelling reduction. These stabilizers proficiently regulate BC soil expansion, improving its load-bearing capability and structural integrity. The present study emphasizes the innovative amalgamation of industrial and organic waste materials for soil stabilization, offering a cost-efficient, scalable, and eco-friendly substitute for traditional stabilizers. The research provides a sustainable knowledge and high-performance solution for broad soil stabilization by recycling easily available waste materials, thereby minimizing environmental impact and fostering circular economy practices in pavement and building construction.