Strength Enhancement of Landfill Fine Fractions for Foundation Applications: A Numerical Study
摘要
The fine fraction of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) is composed of small, granular particles resulting from the breakdown of larger waste components, also known as landfill fine fraction. Often discarded in low-lying areas, these materials are underutilized due to their low strength and silty soil-like behavior, making them unsuitable for construction applications. This study aims to explore the geotechnical properties of MSW fine fractions and assess their potential use as foundation soil. Laboratory tests were conducted to determine critical strength parameters, including shear strength, compressibility, and grain size distribution. These properties were then incorporated into PLAXIS 2D, a finite element method-based software, to model the behavior of the material under various loading conditions. The study evaluates the failure mechanisms and bearing capacity of MSW fine fractions when used as foundation soil. Additionally, the research investigates the potential for improving the strength of these materials through reinforcement. Numerical simulations were carried out to compare the bearing capacities of unreinforced and reinforced MSW fine fractions. The results show that reinforcement significantly improves the bearing capacity, making these materials more viable for use in foundation applications. This research contributes to sustainable waste management practices and provides a potential solution for repurposing MSW in construction, reducing environmental impact and offering alternative materials for building foundations.