Performance Analysis of Coir Fibered Soft Clay

Abstract

Soil stabilization is an integral component of construction activities, as global trends increasingly prioritize green and sustainable practices; this study aims to conduct a comprehensive examination of the performance of coir-fibred soft clay. Clay soil exhibits volumetric fluctuations when subjected to soaking and drying processes, resulting in ground heave and settlement issues. To achieve accurate alteration of the engineering properties of clay soils, it is common practice to enhance them using mechanical or chemical means. This study aimed to explore the enhancement of several index values, including the Atterberg limit, Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS), and Compaction, through the incorporation of coir fibers into clay soil.  As the proportion of coir fiber increases, there is a gradual decrease in the liquid limit. However, the introduction of coir fibers at a concentration of 1.5% results in a further increase in the liquid limit, surpassing the effects observed with the addition of 0.5% and 1% fibers, respectively. In the context of plasticity limits, there is a steady decline observed as the percentage of plastic content increases. However, it has been observed that the plastic limit exhibits a subsequent increase upon the introduction of 1.5% coir fibers. The plasticity index of the collected samples exhibited a reduction when varying amounts of coir fibers were introduced. The study conducted UCS tests to assess the degree of variability in compressive strength. However, while comparing the strength of materials with fiber contents of 1% and 1.5%, it was determined that the disparity between them was deemed to be inconsequential. To assess the variability in compressive strength, compaction tests were conducted. The dry density of soil exhibits an initial rise of 0.5% when fiber content is introduced, followed by a subsequent drop upon the further increase in fiber content.