STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

CHAPTER-1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 INTRODUCTION

Everyone knows that soil is natural element on this planet. It is formed due to some natural
consciousness elements. As we know soil is formed due to the weathering of rocks into smaller
pieces. In this world there are different types of rocks existing, some are acidic, alkaline, course
textured and fine textured in nature. Soil will get all the properties from its parent rock and it
is a mixture of complex like organic matter, air, water and with some space between them. The
major component of most of the soil is inorganic material and it consists of the mineral particles
with different physical and chemical properties which will depend on the parent rock. Soil
material is also a critical component in mining, construction and landscape development
industries. Soil is a mixture of organic matter, minerals, gases, liquids and organisms that
together support life.

1.2 IMPORTANT FUNCTIONS OF SOIL

Soil is vital part of nature and it provides habitat for a wide range of organisms and distribution
for plant species.

• Soil serves as a medium for plant growth.

• Soil as a means of water storage, water supply and purification of water.
• Soil plays a major role in modification of earth’s atmosphere.
• Soil as a habitat for organisms.
• Soil serves as a foundation for most construction projects.

Soil may be important in the construction of various Civil Engineering works, some of the
important applications are given below,

a) Foundation
Every Civil Engineering structure whether it is a building, a bridge or a dam is founded on
below the surface of the earth. Foundations are required to transmit the load of the structure to
the soil safely and efficiently.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 1

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

b) Retaining
Structures when a sufficient space is not available for a mass of soil to spread and form a safe
slope, a structure required to retain the soil. An earth retaining structure is also required to keep
the soil at different levels on its either side.

c) Stability of slopes
If soil surface is not horizontal, there is a component of weight of the soil which tends to move
it downward and the causes instability slope. The slopes maybe natural or man-made.

d) Undergrounded structures
The design and construction of underground structures, such as tunnels, shafts, and conduits,
require evolution of forces exerted by the soil on these structures.

e) Pavement designs
A pavement is a hardcore crust placed on the soil for the purpose of providing a smooth and
strong surface on which vehicles can move. The pavement consists of surface, such as bitumen
layer, base and sub base.

f) Earth Dam
Earth dams are huge structures in which soil is used as a construction material. The earth dams
are built for creating water reservoir. Since the failure of an earth dam may cause wide spread
catastrophe, extreme care is taken in its design and construction.

Compared with concrete, soils and rock fragments lack strength, are much more permeable,
and possess less resistance to deterioration and disturbance by flowing water. These
disadvantages are compensated for by a much lower cost and by the ability of earthfill to adapt
to deformation caused by movements in the dam foundation. This assumes, of course, sufficient
usable soil or rockfill is available near the dam site. Earthfill is often quite economical, provided
that a suitable “borrow” area can be utilized close to the construction site.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 2

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

1.3 FORMATION OF SOIL

Soil is formed due to the disintegration or breaks down of surface rock into smaller pieces and
is mixed with or without organic matter and this process continues until the soil is completely
formed. The breakdown of rocks is known as weathering. Basically weathering of rock is of
two types. One is of mechanical weathering and another one is chemical weathering. If soil is
formed due to the disintegration of rocks occur due to abrasion by water, sudden change in
temperature, landslides and due to organisms such as roots of plants and humans then it is said
due to organisms such as roots of plants and humans then it is said to be mechanical
disintegration. If the soil is formed due to the hard primary minerals transform into soft
secondary minerals by hydration, oxidation and leaching then it is said to be chemical
composition.

Soil formation is the combined effect of physical, chemical, biological and anthropogenic
processes on soil parent material. Soil is formed when organic matter has accumulated and
colloids are washed downward, leaving the deposits of clay, humus, iron oxide, carbonate, and
gypsum producing a distinct layer called the B horizon. These particles are moved from one
level to another by water ana animal activity. As A result, layers form in the soil profile. The
alteration and movement of materials within a soil causes the formation of distinctive soil
horizons.

Soil and soil formation can be considered from many standpoints, including from the study of
soil science as a field in its own right. However, soil is most important in ecological function
as the basis for the growth of terrestrial plants, including supplying nutrients, water,
temperature moderation, and support. Soil also provides important functions as a pool of carbon
that can either act as a source or sink for atmospheric carbon dioxide, a habitat for soil
organisms, and a filtration system for surface and ground water. Soil has often been considered
a nonrenewable resource like coal or oil, and not a renewable resource such as agriculture or
forests. However, in many cases, soil is a slowly renewable resource, and degraded soil can
sometimes be restored to serve much of its original ecological function, though restoration may
take decades or longer.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 3

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

1.4 TYPES OF SOILS IN INDIA

Soil is the mixture of rock debris and organic materials which develop on the earth’s surface.
The major factors affecting the formation of soil are relief, parent material, climate, time, and
biodiversity including the human activities. India is a diverse country with variety of relief
features, landforms, climatic realms and vegetation types. These have contributed in the
development of various types of soils in India.

Figure 1.1: Shows different types of soil

On the basis of genesis, colour, composition and location, the soils of India have been classified
into various soils such as Alluvial soils, Black soils, red and yellow soils, Laterite soils, Arid
soils, Saline soils, Peaty soils, Forest soils etc.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 4

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

1.4.1 Red soil

Red soil is a type of soil that typically develops in warm, temperate, and humid climates. It
contains thin organic and organic-mineral layers of highly leached soil resting on an alluvium
red layer. Red soils contain large amounts of clay and make up approximately 13% of the land
on Earth. Red soils are generally derived from the weathering of ancient crystalline and
metamorphic rock. They are named after their rich red color, which can vary from reddish
brown to reddish yellow and is the result of their high iron content. Red soil can be good or
poor growing soil depending on how it is managed. It is usually low in nutrients and humus
and can be difficult to cultivate due to its low water holding capacity; however, the fertility of
these soils can be optimized with liming and other farming techniques. Red soil develops on
crystalline igneous rocks in area of low rainfall.
The sample of Red soil is shown in the figure 1.2 .

Figure 1.2: Red Soil

Red soil is an important soil resource, which bears substantial implication for sustainable
development of agriculture and healthy growth of economy. However, the red soil in China has
been deteriorating in recent years and facing many threats, such as soil erosion, acidification,
and pollution. Among these, contamination of heavy metals, particularly arsenic and cadmium
pollution in paddy soils of the red soil regions has become a major environmental concern.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 5

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

1.5 BEARING CAPACITY OF SOIL

All Civil Engineering structures whether they are buildings, dams, bridges or any structure are
built on soils. A foundation is required to transfer the load of the structures on a large area of
soil. The foundation of the structures should be so designed that the soil below does not fail in
shear nor there is a excessive settlements of the structure.

When soil is stressed due to loading, tend to deform and the resistance to deformation of the
soil depends upon the factors like water content, dry density and load is applied on the soil.
The maximum load per unit area which the soil can carry without yielding or displacement is
known as bearing capacity of soil.

Soil properties like shear strength, density and permeability affects the bearing capacity of soil.
The bearing capacity of the soil is determined with the help of Terzaghi bearing capacity theory.

1.5.1 Stabilization of soil

Soil stabilization is a process of improving the engineering properties of the soil and thus
making it more stable. Improving the engineering properties of soil and making it more stable
and durable is called ground improvements. We can use any material to stabilize the soil.

1.5.2 Need of soil stabilization

• To increase the strength of soil.

• To control the shrink well properties of the soil.
• Improving the load bearing capacity of a sub-grade and foundation soil to support
pavement and structures.
• To reduce compressibility and their settlements.

1.6 OBJECTIVES OF THIS PROJECT

The main objectives of this project is

• To study the interaction between the red soil and fly ash when we mix together.
• To improve the Engineering properties of the Red soil.
• Conduct various tests on soils to determine the strength based on the IS. 2720

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 6

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

1.7 SUMMARY

Soil is a significant part of the construction process. If performed improperly, the settlement of
the soil could occur and results in unnecessary maintenance cost or structure failure. For the
current project, we are carrying the several experiments such as CBR, Atterberg’s limits,
specific gravity of soil, optimum moisture content (OMC). An attempt has been made to
improve the soil strength by using fly ash.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 7

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

CHAPTER-2

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 INTRODUCTION
The use of natural fibers as enhancement in soil has attracted much research interest in the past
decade. Many researchers have done their research work on soil strength determination and
used various materials such as lime, stone dust, fly ash, sugarcane fiber. Various researchers
had different opinion to those materials.

2.2 SPECIFIC STUDIES

V. Samidurai, Mohanavel, and Manoj kumar (2018)[1]:
Infrastructure such as highways, railways, water reservoirs etc. requires earth material in very
in very large quantity and quite often, large areas are covered with highly plastic and expansive
soil, which is not suitable for such purpose. For this purpose the application of expansive soil
after stabilization with additives such as sand, silt, lime and fly ash is used as fly ash is freely
available for projects in the vicinity of a thermal power plant, it can be used for stabilization of
soils. In this project the percentage of fly ash is varied from 5-30% . The study from the
laboratory test concludes that with percentage addition of fly ash improves the strength of
stabilized clay soil. The engineering properties of expansive clay are not suitable for
construction purposes. Conventional soil improvement techniques are generally expensive
involving large quantities of costly materials. A large quantity of fly ash as been produced
every year.

M.K. Sharma and N.M. Vyas (2017) [2]:

Soil could be peculiar material. Some waste materials such as rice husk ash, lake ash might use
to create the soil to be stable. Addition of such materials can increase the physical yet as
chemical properties of the soil. Some expecting properties to be improved are shear strength,
liquidity index, physical property index, unconfined compressive strength and bearing
capability etc. the objective of this study was to judge the impact of ash derived from
combustion of sub-bituminous coal at electrical power plants in stabilization of soppy
finegrained red soils. California bearing magnitude relation (CBR)and alternative strength
property tests were conducted on soil. The soil is in vary of malleability, with malleability

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 8

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

indices go between 25 and 30. Tests were conducted on soils and soil-fly ash mixtures ready at
optimum water content of 9/11. Addition of ash resulted in considerable will increase within
the CBR of the soils square measure found in varied proportion specified 3,5,6 and 9. We will
find optimum CMBR price of the soil is 6th June 1944. Increment of CMBR price is employed
to cut back the thickness of the pavement and increasing the bearing capability of soil. The
borrowed red soil has bearing capability of 10kg/mm2 . The stabilized red soil with proportion
of ash achieves bearing capability of 35kg/mm2.

Ankur (2014)[3]:
Stabilize the Black cotton soil using Lime and stone dust. For his study, Black cotton soil
sample were collected from Gwalior-Jhansi road (M.P) and stone dust was collected from
Aman Vihar Industrial area, New Delhi. The Black cotton soil had specific gravity 2.61,
percentage passing Is sieve 75 micron is 58.0%, liquid limit 57%, plastic limit 31.4%, plasticity
index 26.5%, differential free swell 41.0%, M.D.D 16.1KN/m3 , CBR (soaked) 1.50% and
unconfined compressive strength 166.2KN/m2. Author classified soil as CH according to the
unified soil classification system. In their study, authors determine optimum percentage of lime
was 9% and stone dust was mixed by 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25% by weight of lime-black
cotton soil
The MDD of lime stabilized B.C. soil increases up to the addition of 20% stone dust and further
increase of the stone dust decreases the value. Similarly for CBR and UCS the strength
increases up to 20% addition of stone dust in lime stabilized soil.The changes in the physical
properties and swelling potential is a result of additional silt size particles to some extent and
due to chemical reactions that cause immediate flocculation of clay particles and the time
dependent puzzolanic and self hardening properties of Fly Ash and he concluded that both high
–calcium and low calcium class C Fly Ashes can be recommended as effective stabilizing
agents for improvement for improvement of expansive soils.

Shelke and Murthy (2010)[4]:

They used EPS Geofoam to reduce the swelling pressure of expansive soil. Black cotton soil
from Ahmednagar district in Maharashtra was taken for study. According to USCS soil
classification, soil has CH type. The Liquid limit, Plastic limit, plasticity index, O.M.C, M.D.D
and free swell index of soil was 61%, 31%, 30%, 20%, 16.2KN/m3 and 85.7% respectively. In
his study, authors used two type of geofoam, viz. (1) 6mm thickness and (2) 12mm thickness.
Swelling of Black cotton soil reduces from 8.64%to 82.72% when EPS Geofom of 6mm and
12mm are used. Swelling pressure of 6mm geofoam is reduced to 42.86% and for 12mm
thickness swelling pressure is reduced about 90%.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 9

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

Phanikumar and Sharma (2004)[5]:

A similar study was carried out by Phanikumar and Sharma and the effect of Fly Ash on
engineering properties of expansive soil through an experimental programme. The effect on
parameters like free swell index (FSI), swell potential, swelling pressure, plasticity, compaction,
strength and hydraulic conductivity of expansive soil was studied. The ash blended expansive
soil with FLY ASH contents of 0, 5, 10,15 and 20% on a dry weight basis and they inferred
that increase in FLY ASH content reduces plasticity characteristics and the FSI was reduced
by about 50% by the addition of 20% Fly Ash. The hydraulic conductivity of expansive soils
mixed with Fly Ash decreases with an increase in Fly Ash content, due to the increase in
maximum dry unit weight with an increase in Fly Ash content. When the Fly Ash content
increases there is a decrease in the optimum moisture content and the maximum dry unit weight
increases. The effect of Fly Ash is akin to the increased compactive effort. Hence the expansive
soil is rendered more stable. The untrained shear strength of the expansive soil blended with
Fly Ash increases with the increase in the ash content.

Pandian et.al. (2002)[6]:

Studied the effect of two types of Fly Ashes Raichur Fly Ash (Class F) and Neyveli Fly Ash
(Class C) on the CBR characteristics of the black cotton soil. The Fly Ash content was increased
from 0 to 100%. Generally the CBR/strength is contributed by its cohesion and friction. The
CBR of BC soil, which consists of predominantly of finer particles, is contributed by cohesion.
The CBR of Fly Ash, which consists predominantly of coarser particles, is contributed by its
frictional component. The low CBR of BC soil is attributed to the inherent low strength, which
is due to the dominance of clay fraction. The addition of Fly Ash to BC soil increases the CBR
of the mix up to the first optimum level due to the frictional resistance from Fly Ash in addition
to the cohesion from BC soil. Further addition of Fly Ash beyond the optimum level causes a
decrease up to 60% and then up to the second optimum level there is an increase. Thus the
variation of CBR of Fly Ash-BC soil mixes can be attributed to the relative contribution of
frictional or cohesive resistance from Fly Ash or BC soil, respectively. In Neyveli Fly Ash also
there is an increase of strength with the increase in the Fly Ash content, here there will be
additional puzzolonic reaction forming cementitious compounds resulting in good binding
between BC soil and Fly Ash particles.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 10

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

Erdal Cokca (2001)[7]:

Effect of Fly Ash on expansive soil was studied by Erdal Cokca,FLY ASH consists of often
hollow spheres of silicon, aluminums and iron oxides and unoxidized carbon. Fly Ash India
2005, New Delhi Fly Ash Utilization Programme (FAUP), TIFAC, DST, New Delhi – 110016
are two major classes of Fly Ash, class C and class F. The former is produced from burning
anthracite or bituminous coal and the latter is produced from burning lignite and sub bituminous
coal. Both the classes of Fly Ash are pozzolans, which are defined as siliceous and aluminous
materials. Thus Fly Ash can provide an array of divalent and trivalent cations (Ca2+, Al3+,
Fe3+etc) under ionized conditions that can promote flocculation of dispersed clay particles.
Thus expansive soils can be potentially stabilized effectively by cation exchange using Fly Ash.
He carried out investigations using Soma Fly Ash and Tuncbilek Fly Ash and added it to
expansive soil at 0-25%. Specimens with Fly Ash were cured for 7days and 28 days after which
they were subjected to Odometer free swell tests. And his experimental findings confirmed that
the plasticity index, activity and swelling potential of the samples decreased with increasing
percent stabilizer and curing time and the optimum content of Fly Ash in decreasing the swell
potential was found to be 20%. The changes in the physical properties and swelling potential
is a result of additional silt size particles to some extent and due to chemical reactions that
cause immediate flocculation of clay particles and the time dependent pozzolanic and self
hardening properties of Fly Ash and he concluded that both high –calcium and low calcium
class C Fly Ashes can brecommended as effective stabilizing agents for improvement for
improvement of expansive soils.
S.Bhuvaneshwari and S.R. Gandhi (2000)[8]:
A study was carried out by S.Bhuvaneshwari and S.R. Gandhi on the effect of engineering
properties of expansive soil through an experimental programme. Infrastructure projects such
as highways, railways, water reservoirs, reclamation etc. requires earth material in very large
quantity. In urban areas, borrow earth is not easily available which has to be hauled from a long
distance. Quite often, large areas are covered with highly plastic and expansive soil, which is
not suitable for such purpose. Extensive laboratory / field trials have been carried out by various
researchers and have shown promising results for application of such expansive soil after
stabilization with additives such as sand, silt, lime, Fly Ash, etc. As Fly Ash is freely available,
for projects in the vicinity of a Thermal Power Plants, it can be used for stabilization of
expansive soils for various uses. The present paper describes a study carried out to check the
improvements in the properties of expansive soil with Fly Ash in varying percentages. Both
laboratory trials and field tests have been carried out and results are reported in this paper. One
of the major difficulties in field application is thorough mixing of the two materials (expansive
soil and Fly Ash) in required proportion to form a homogeneous mass. The paper describes a
method adopted for placing these materials in layers of required thickness and operating a “Disc
Harrow”. A trial embankment of 30m length by 6m width by 0.6m high was successfully
constructed and the in-situ tests carried out proved its suitability for construction of
embankment, ash dykes, filling low-laying areas, etc.
The addition of Fly Ash to BC soil increases the CBR of the mix up to the first optimum level
due to the frictional resistance from Fly Ash in addition to the cohesion from BC soil. Further
addition of Fly Ash beyond the optimum level causes a decrease up to 60% and then up to the
second optimum level there is an increase.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 11

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

This study ic carried out the effect of engineering properties of expansive soil through an
experimental programme. Infrastructure projects such as highways, railways, water reservoirs,
reclamation etc. requires earth material in very large quantity. In urban areas, borrow earth is
not easily available which has to be hauled from a long distance.

2.3 SUMMARY
From the above literature review it can be concluded that the sugarcane fiber is an useful
admixture because when it is mixed with soil in different proportions it increases the strength
of the soil and decreases the deformability and also maximum dry density decreases due to its
light mass density of fibers and also the optimum moisture content increases due to its high
water absorption capacity. So the further experiments are presented in the following chapters
to study the effect of fibers on soil and the results will also be compared.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 12

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

CHAPTER – 3
STUDY METHODOLOGY
3.1 INTRODUCTION

This chapter will give a brief explanation about various materials used in the project and the
tests to be performed such as consistency limits, compaction test, California bearing ratio.The
test procedures are followed as per Bureau of Indian Standards.

3.2 MATERIALS USED

3.2.1 Red Soil

Red soils are mostly sandy and has less clayey. The soil is collected at near to the our college
site. This type of soil has a light texture and loose structure, which cause them to drain quickly
and not hold water well.

3.2.1.1 PROPERTIES OF RED SOIL

a. Permeability of Soil

The ability of soil to allow flow of water through it is called as permeability of soil. It is very
important factor for the structures which are in contact with water. Flow of water in soil takes
place through void spaces, which are interconnected. Water does not flow in a straight line, but
in a winding path. However in soil mechanics flow is considered to be in a straight line at an
effective velocity. The velocity of flow depends on size of pores. A material having continuous
voids is called permeable. Gravels are highly permeable while stiff clay is the least permeable
and hence such clay may be termed impermeable for all practical purpose.

b. Specific Gravity of Soil

Specific gravity is a fundamental property of soils and other construction materials. This
dimensionless unit is the ratio of material density to the density of water and is used to calculate
soil density, void ratio, saturation, and other soil properties. Applications include the
foundation design for structures, calculations for the stability of soil embankments, and
estimations of settlement for engineered soil fills. The specific gravity of the soil particles lie
within the range of 2.65 to 2.85. Soils containing organic matter and porous particles may have
specific gravity values below 2.0. Soils having heavy substances have values above 3.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 13

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

Table 3.1: Specific Gravity of Different Types of Soil

Type of soil Silt Clay Organic soil Sand

Specific 2.6-2.7 2.67-2.9 < 2.0 2.63-2.67

gravity

Traditional methods for determining specific gravity are straightforward. Standard test methods
described in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Laboratory testing soils, and some state DOTs
are often considered adequate for basic applications. As with any laboratory test, these methods
require attention to detail but are easy to perform correctly and do not require much in the way
of specialized techniques or equipment.

c. Plasticity Index

The plasticity index (PI) is a measure of the plasticity of a soil. The plasticity index is the size
of the range of water contents where the soil exhibits plastic properties. The PI is the difference
between the liquid limit and the plastic limit (PI = LL-PL). Soils with a high PI tend to be clay,
those with a lower PI tend to be silt, and those with a PI of 0 (non-plastic) tend to have little or
no silt or clay. Table 3.2 shows the plasticity characteristics of soil.

Table 3.2: Plasticity Characteristics

Plasticity Index Plasticity

Non
0 plastic

1 to 5 slight

5 to 10 low

10 to 20 medium

20 to 40 high

>40 very

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 14

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

3.2.1.2 Characteristics of Red Soil

The following are the important characteristics of red soil,

➢ It is porous in nature and has a high percentage of iron oxide

➢ Generally it is found to be shallow depth and its PH value ranges between 6.6 to 8
➢ It is loose and aerated and is poor in terms of the quantity of nitrogen, phosphorus,
potassium and organic matter.
➢ It is not a fertile, but it does responds to fertilizers.
➢ It needs a irrigation support for cultivation.
➢ It has lower water holding capacity.

3.3 FLY ASH

Fly ash is a fine gray powder consisting mostly of spherical, glassy particles that are produced
as a byproduct in coal-fired power stations. Fly ash has pozzolanic properties, meaning that it
reacts with lime to form cementitious compounds. It is commonly known as a supplementary
cementitious material. Ash that does not rise is called bottom ash. In an industrial context, fly
ash usually refers to ash produced during combustion of coal. Fly ash is a heterogeneous
material. Fly ash material solidifies while suspended in the exhaust gases and is collected by
electrostatic precipitators or filter bags. Since the particles solidify rapidly while suspended in
the exhaust gases, fly ash particles are generally spherical in shape and range in size from 0.5
µm to 300 µm. Fly ash significantly improves concrete performance and also provides many
benefits in cement and non-cement applications. Also, when treated with sodium hydroxide,
fly ash appears to function well as a catalyst for converting polyethylene into a substance
similar to crude oil in a high-temperature process called pyrolysis .Fly ash is shown is the
figure 3.1 .

Figure 3.1: Fly Ash

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 15

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

3.3.1 Chemical Composition of Fly Ash

Fly ash is predominately composed of silica, aluminum, iron, calcium, and oxygen, but the
particles may also contain heavy metals such as arsenic and lead at trace levels. Most nations
throughout the world do not consider fly ash a hazardous waste and therefore regulations on its
disposal and storage are lacking. The table 3.3 shows the chemical composition of fly ash.Table
3.3:shows the chemical composition of fly ash.

Table 3.3: Chemical Composition of Fly Ash

Components Fly ash in percentage

40-55
SiO2

Al2O3 17-26

Fe2O3 6-7

CaO 9-24

MgO 2-5

SO3 1-3

Class C fly ashes are generally derived from sub-bituminous coals and consist primarily of
calcium alumino-sulphate glass, as well as quartz, tricalcium aluminate, and free lime.
Class C ash is also referred to as high calcium fly ash because it typically contains 20% CaO.
Class F ashes are typically derived from bituminous and anthracite coals and consist primarily
of an alumino-silicate glass, with quartz, mullite, and magnetite also present. Class F or low
calcium fly ash has less than 10% CaO.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 16

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

3.3.2 Physical Properties of Fly Ash

a. Fineness of Fly Ash: As per ASTM, the fineness of the fly ash is to be checked in both dry
n wet sieving. The fly ash sample is sieved in 45 micron sieve and the percentage of retained
on the 45 micron sieve is calculated. Further fineness is also measured by LeChatelier
method and Blaine Specific Surface method.

b. Specific Gravity of Fly Ash: The specific gravity of fly ash ranges from a low value of
1.90 for a sub-bituminous ash to a high value of 2.96 for an iron-rich bituminous ash.

c. Size and Shape of Fly Ash: As the fly ash is a very fine material, the particle size ranges in
between 10 to 100 micron. The shape of the fly ash is usually spherical glassy shaped.

d. Colour: The colour of the fly ash depends upon the chemical and mineral constituents. Lime
content in the fly ash gives tan and light colours where as brownish colour is imparted by
the presence of iron content. A dark grey to black colour is typically attributed to an elevated
un-burned content.

3.4 USES OF FLY ASH:

a.Reduced Heat of Hydration: Fly ash in concrete plays a dual role in strength development.
It reacts with released lime and produces binder and adds additional strength to the concrete
mass.

b.Workability of Concrete: Fly ash particles are spherical in shape which helps to reduce
friction between aggregates thus increases the workability of concrete. Fly ash use in concrete
increases fines volume and decreases water content and thus reduces bleeding of concrete.

c.Sulphate Attack: Additional C-S-H gel continues to form due to the reaction between fly
ash and lime thus it increases the sulfate resistance of fly ash.

3.5 BRIEF STEPS INVOLVED IN THE EXPERIMENTS

The laboratory test carried out on the soil includes following tests consistency limits,
compaction tests, and California bearing ratio. In the second phase, soil is mixed with

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 17

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

admixture i.e. fly ash in different proportions i.e. 3%, 6%, 9%. According to the IS – 2720 tests
for soil samples are as follows.

3.6 CONSISTENCY LIMITS

In 1911, Atterberg, a Swedish agricultural engineer, stated that a fine-grained soil can exist in
four states, namely, liquid, plastic, semi-solid, or solid state, depending on its water content.
The water contents at which the soil changes from one state to the other are known as
consistency limits or Atterberg limits. Consistency is the relative ease with which soil can be
deformed. It is used mostly for clays. These are soil aggregate properties.

3.6.1 Liquid Limit

The Liquid Limit (LL or WLL), also known as the upper plastic limit, is the water content at
which the soil changes from the liquid state to a plastic state. It is the minimum moisture content
at which a soil flows upon application of very small shear force. Liquid limit is significant to
know the stress history and general properties of the soil met with construction. From the results
of liquid limit the compression index may be estimated. The compression index value will help
us in settlement analysis. If the natural moisture content of soil is closer to liquid limit, the soil
can be considered as soft if the moisture content is lesser than liquids limit, the soil can be
considered as soft if the moisture content is lesser than liquid limit. The soil is brittle and stiffer.
The precise definition of the liquid limit is based on standard test procedures. Liquid Limit can
be determined using the Casagrande cup method or a cone penetrometer.

• Casagrande cup method

• Cone penetration test

Casagrande Cup Method:

The standard liquid limit test apparatus was designed by Arthur Casagrande in the 1930s based
on the procedure developed by Albert Atterberg; therefore, the liquid limit test is sometimes
called the Casagrande test. The test apparatus consists of a Casagrande cup, also known as the
liquid limit device, and a Casagrande grooving tool.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 18

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

In the Casagrande cup method, the soil paste is placed in the Casagrande cup, and a groove is
made at the center of it. The limit is defined as the moisture content, in percent, required to
close distance of 0.5 inches along the bottom of a groove after 25 blows in a liquid limit device.

A paste of soil and water is put in a shallow cup, the paste is cut into two parts with a deep
groove and the cup is then dropped repeatedly in a standard manner until the groove has closed
owing to the flow of the paste.Casagrande liquid limit device is shown in the figure
3.2.

Figure 3.2: Casagrande’s liquid limit device

Apparatus

1. Mechanical liquid limit device

2. Grooving tool

3. Porcelain evaporating dish

4. Spatula

5. Balance

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 19

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

6. Thermostatically controlled oven

7. Sample container

8. 425 IS Sieve

Procedure

1. Sieve the specimen or sample using the IS 425 Sieve and take about 120gm of soil
sample into a porcelain evaporating dish.

2. Now add distilled water to the soil sample and mix it well to form uniform paste by
using spatula.

3. Place a portion of sample into a cup of liquid limit device. Trim the soil using spatula
and its depth should be 1 cm and remove the excess soil from the cup.

4. Use casagrande grooving tool to divide soil paste into 2 half’s in a direction of
perpendicular to the rotation of handle.

5. Lift and drop the cup by rotating the handle at a rate of 2 revolutions per second till the
2 half come in contact by flowing not by sliding. Count the number of blows it should
be in between 15-25 blows.

6. After that take a representative sample into a container from the cup and place it into a
thermostatically controlled oven for 24 hours.

7. Finally weigh the container weight and calculate the water content of soil.

8. Repeat the same procedure for the proportions (3% of fly ash, 6% of fly ash and 9% of
fly ash) and plot a graph.

3.6.2 Plastic Limit

Plastic limit is defined as the water moisture content at which a thread of soil with 3.2mm
diameter begins to crumble. Plastic limit (PL) is the moisture content at which a fine-grained
soil cannot be remolded without cracking. The plastic limit test requires repeated rolling of a
soil sample into a thread until it reaches a point where it crumbles.Plastic limit (PL) along with
shrinkage limit (SL) and liquid limit (LL) comprise the Atterberg limits.

The PL is expressed as a percentage of the weight of the oven-dry soil, at the boundary of
plastic and semi-solid consistency. It is the moisture content at which the rolled soil will begin
to crumble when rolled into a thread 3mm or 1/8th inch in diameter.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 20

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

As moisture contents increase, clay and silt soils go through four distinct states of consistency:
solid, semi-solid, plastic, and liquid. Each stage exhibits significant differences in strength,
consistency, and behavior. Atterberg limit tests accurately define the boundaries between these
states using moisture contents at the points where the physical changes occur. The test values
and derived indexes have direct applications in the foundation design of structures and in
predicting the behavior of soil in fills, embankments, and pavements. The values assess shear
strength, estimate permeability, forecast settlement, and identify potentially expansive soils.

Apparatus

1. Porcelain evaporating dish

2. Ground glass plate

3. Metallic rod of 3mm diameter

4. Spatula

5. Containers

6. Thermostatically controlled oven

7. 425 IS sieve

Procedure

1. To determine the plastic limit of soil, take about 20 gm of 425 IS sieved soil sample
and transfer it into a dish.

2. Now add distill water to the sample and mix it well with help of spatula.

3. Roll the sample between the plan or fingers on the ground glass plate to form a thread
of uniform diameter.
4. Continue the rolling until the thread reaches a uniform diameter of 3mm finally thread
crumbled as shown in the figure and it will be its plastic limit.

5. Take the soil sample into a container to determine the water content.

6. Repeat the same procedure for three times to get the average plastic limit of a soil and
also repeat the same procedure for replacement of soil with 3% of fly ash, 6% of fly ash
and 9% of fly ash for stabilization of soil.Sieving the soil

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 21

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

Figure 3.3: Soil Stabilization

3.7 COMPACTION OF SOIL

The principle of compaction was developed by R.R Proctor in 1993 during the construction of
earth dam in California. In dry soil, particles are not in contact with each other and when we
try to compact the dry soil without the water it will become stiff and get cracks. When we add
water to dry soil, the water forms a thin layer or film and the particles come in contact with
each other. Finally the soil becomes denser after the compaction. When compaction of soil, the
main aim is to keep the soil particles close together which leads to improve dry density of soil.
Soil should compact for the construction of highways, runways, canal embankment and many
other structures. The compaction of soil is pressing of soil particles close to each other by
mechanical methods by which it rearrange its particles should take place and reduce the void
ratio of soil.
At low water content, the soil should remain as stiff resulting in low dry density. As we increase
the water content, then the water a lubricating film around or within the soil particles by these
particles compacted closer state of contact with resulting in higher dry density. At this stage,
the soil particles come to the closest possible state of contact. The water content at which the
dry density is maximum after the compaction then it is called as optimum moisture content
(OMC). As we increase the water content beyond optimum moisture content, water starts
occupying additional space, which will result in increase in the volume of voids and decreases
in the dry density.

Coarse grained soils can be compacted to a higher rate of dry density than the fine grained soils.
Cohesion less soils can be similarly compacted to a high dry density than cohesive soils. A well

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 22

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

graded soil is compacted more effectively when we compare it with the poorly graded soil. The
compaction of soil is compacted in the laboratory applying standard compaction energy at
different water content.

3.7.1 Objective Of Compaction

• By the compaction of soil, we can increase the shear strength of soil.

• The undesirable settlements of structure should be decreased.

• The soil permeability decreases.

• The soil bearing capacity will increase.

• Increasing the stability of slopes.

3.7.2 The Effect of Compaction on Soil

a. Soil Structure

Soil compacted at the water content less than OMC (dry of optimum) will have flocculents
structure with edge to face particle arrangement, irrespective of method of compaction. The
structure of soils compacted at water content greater than OMC (wet of optimum) depends on
the magnitude of shear strain. Soil compacted wet of optimum which undergo relatively shear
strain during compaction, will have flocculant structure. Soils compacted wet of optimum,
which undergo long shear strains during compaction, usually have a dispersed structure with
face to face particle arrangement. The degree of orientation of soil particles increases gradually
with increase in water content and the soil still possess a flocculated structure up to the OMC.
The orientation of particles increases more rapidly with increase in water content for soils
compacted wet of optimum. Increase of compaction energy increases the orientation of soil
particles even at the same water content.

b. Shear Strength

Shear strength of a soil is indicative of its resistance to erosion. Specifically, it is defined as the
resistance to deformation by the action of tangential (shear) stress. Soil shear strength is made
up of cohesion between particles and resistance of particles sliding over each other due to
friction or interlocking. Cohesion is composed of true cohesion and apparent cohesion.. As the

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 23

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

soil thaws at high water content, soil strength due to apparent cohesion is nil. shear strength of
a soil is indicative of its resistance to erosion. Specifically, it is defined as the resistance to
deformation by the action of tangential (shear) stress. Soil shear strength is made up of cohesion
between particles and resistance of particles sliding over each other due to friction or
interlocking.

c. Pore Water Pressure

It refers to the pressure of groundwater held within a soil or rock, in gaps between particles.
Pore water pressures below the phreatic level of the groundwater are measured with
piezometers. The vertical pore water pressure distribution in aquifers can generally be assumed
to be close to hydrostatic.

d. Stress – Strain Relationship

The stress–strain–strength relationship of soil can be changed from elastic to plastic behavior,
or it can be changed from softening to hardening behavior if certain local environmental
conditions change. In terms of stress–strain relationships, soil may be broadly categorized
according to whether it is loose or dense or whether it is normally consolidated or over
consolidated. The stress–strain relationship for any material is used for analyzing its stability
as part of an engineered system. Numerous failure criteria have been proposed for the stability
analysis of soil mass, but most of them are borrowed from basic engineering mechanics. Failure
criteria are classified as one-parameter model and two-parameter model. Shear strength is the
maximum resistance a soil has to shearing stresses. In general, the elasticity- and plasticity-
based models are commonly used for analysis of soils and rocks. There are three types of
loading and drainage conditions under which shear tests may be performed, namely
unconsolidated undrained, and consolidated undrained and consolidated drained.

e. Compressibility

Compressibility characteristics of soils forms one of the important soil parameters required in
design considerations. Compression index, C c, which is the slope of the linear portion of void
ratio, e vs. logarithm of effective pressure p(log p) relationship, is extensively used for
settlement determination. The e–log p is most often assumed to be linear at higher pressure
range and hence C c is taken as a constant. Both published experimental results as well as
results obtained in this investigation reveal that the e vs. log p could be curved, concave

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 24

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

upwards or concave downwards depending upon the soil plasticity characteristics and initial
water content.

f. Shrinkage

The soil shrinkage is defined as the specific volume change of soil relative to its water content
and is mainly due to clay swelling properties. It can be measured in most soils with more than
10% clay content and shows a typical S-shape. This process is reversible with changes in water
content and the reverse to shrinkage is swelling.

g. Swelling

Swelling soils, also known as expansive soils, are ones that swell in volume when subjected to
moisture. These swelling soils typically contain clay minerals that attract and absorb water.
When water is introduced to expansive soils, the water molecules are pulled into gaps between
the soil plates. As more water is absorbed, the plates are forced further apart, leading to an
increase in soil pore pressure (Handy, 1995). If this increased pressure exceeds surcharge
pressure (including the weight of the overlying pavement) the soil will expand in volume to a
point where these pressures are once again in balance. Swelling pressures can be on the order
of 100 – 200 kPa (14.5 – 29 psi) and have been measured as high as 1000 kPa (145 psi).

3.7.3 Soil Compaction Test

3.7.3.1 Proctor Test

The Proctor compaction test consists of compacting soil samples at given water content in a
standard mould with standard compaction energy. The standard Proctor test uses a 4-
inchdiameter mould with the compaction of three separate layers of soil using 25 blows by a
5.5 lb hammer falling 12 inches.

Dry Density = Bulk Density / 1+W

The test is named in honor of Ralph Roscoe Proctor . who in 1933 showed that the dry density
of a soil for a given compactive effort depends on the amount of water the soil contains during
soil compaction.[1] His original test is most commonly referred to as the standard Proctor
compaction test; his test was later updated to create the modified Proctor compaction test.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 25

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

These laboratory tests generally consist of compacting soil at known moisture content into a
cylindrical mold with a collar of standard dimensions of height and diameter using a
compactive effort of controlled magnitude. The soil is usually compacted into the mold to a
certain amount of equal layers, each receiving a number of blows from a standard weighted
hammer at a specified height. This process is then repeated for various moisture contents and
the dry densities are determined for each. The graphical relationship of the dry density to
moisture content is then plotted to establish the compaction curve. The maximum dry density
is finally obtained from the peak point of the compaction curve and its corresponding moisture
content, also known as the optimal moisture content.

The testing described is generally consistent with the American Society for Testing and
Materials (ASTM) standards, and are similar to the American Association of State Highway
and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) standards. Currently, the procedures and equipment
details for the standard Proctor compaction test is designated by ASTM D698 and AASHTO
T99. Also, the modified Proctor compaction test is designated by ASTM D1557 and AASHTO
T180-D.

Apparatus

• Compaction mould

• Detachable base plate

• Collar

• Metal rammer

• Balance

• Thermostatically controlled oven

• IS Sieve

• Steel straight edge

• Mixing tools

• Graduated jar with water

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 26

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

Procedure

• Firstly measure the diameter and height of the compaction mould by this we can find
the value of the compaction mould.

• By using IS sieve, sieve the soil sample that is soil should have to pass through the
20mm and retained by 4.75 mm.

• Clean the compaction mould, collar and detachable base plate and apply lightly gease
or oil to the collar, compaction mould and the base plate.

• Weigh the compaction mould and note down the readings into a observation. Attach
the collar to the mould and place the mould on the soil base.

• Take the 2kg of soil for conduct or perform a test from sieved soil. Initially add 4% of
water to the soil and mix it well and then divide it into 3 equal parts.

• Now place the soil in the mould in 3 equal layers. Take about one – third the quantity
first, and compact it by giving 25 blows of the rammer. The blows should be uniformly
distributed over the surface of each layer.
• The top surface of the first layer should be scratched with spatula before placing the
second layer. The second layer should also be compacted by 25 blows of rammer.
Likewise, place the third layer and compact it.

• The amount of the soil used should be just sufficient to fill the mould and should be
about 5 mm above the top of the mould to be struck off when the collar is removed.
Remove the collar and trim off the excess soil present above the mould using a straight
edge.

• Clean the base plate and the mould from outside. Weigh the mould to the nearest gram.
Remove the soil from the mould and take a representative soil sample to determine the
water content. Plot a graph to determine the optimum moisture content, take water content
on x-axis and dry density on y-axis.Compaction of soil

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 27

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

Figure 3.4: Cement, Fly Ash

Now, add 2% of the water to the same soil sample and repeat the same procedure and
also follow the procedure for 3% of fly ash, 6% of fly ash add 9% of fly ash and
finally compare the test results.

3.8 SIEVE SIZE ANALYSIS

• To determine the grading curve of the given sample of soil, to classify given soil
according to I.S soil classification system 1498-1970.

• The grain size analysis is widely used in classification of soils. The data obtained from
grain size distribution curves is used in the design of filters for earth dams and to
determine suitability of soil for road construction, air, field etc.

• Information obtained from grain size analysis can be used to predict soil water
movement although permeability tests are more generally used.

• Grading curve is a graph representing log sieve opening on x-axis and the
corresponding percentage finer on the y-axis.

• The balance to be used must be sensitive to the extent of 0.1% of total weight of sample
taken.

• IS 460-1962 is to be used. The sieves for soil tests: 4.75mm to 75 microns.

Equipment Details

1. Balance

2. I.S sieves

3. Mechanical sieve shaker

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 28

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

Draw graph between log sieve size vs. % finer. The graph is known as grading curve.
Corresponding 10%, 30%, 60% finer, obtain diameters from graphs are designated as D10, D30,
D60.

Calculating the coefficients of uniformly and curvature

Calculating the coefficients of uniformly and curvature requires grain diameters. The grain
diameter can be found for each percent of soil passing a particular sieve. This means that if 40%
the sample is retain on the 200 sieve then there is 60% passing the sieve.

The coefficient of uniformity, CU is a crude shape parameter and is calculated using the
following equation

CU = D60/D10
Where D60 is the grain diameter at 60% passing, and D10 is grain diameter at 10%
passing.

The coefficient of curvature, Cc is a shape parameter and use to calculate the following
equation

Cc
Where D60 is the grain diameter at 60% passing, D30 is the grain diameter at 30% passing, and
D10 is the grain diameter at 10% passing.

Once the coefficient of uniformity and the coefficient of curvature have been calculated,
they must be compared to published gradation criteria.

The following criteria are in accordance with the unified soil classification system:

1. For a gravel to be classified as well graded, the following criteria must be met:

Cu>4 & 1<Cc<3

2. If both of these criteria are not met, the gravel is classified as poorly graded or GP.
If the both of these criteria are met, the gravel is classified as well graded or GW.

3. For a sand to be classified as well graded, the following criteria must be to met:

Cu≥6 & 1<Cc<3

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 29

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

4. If both of these criteria are not met, the sand is classified as poorly graded. If both of
these criteria are met the sand is classified as well graded.

Determination of soil classification

Soil gradation is important to geotechnical engineering. It is an indicator of other engineering

properties such as compressibility, shear strength, and hydraulic conductivity.

Well graded more voids will be present

Gap graded medium voids will be present

Uniform graded fewer voids will be present

Table 3.4: Grain size Distribution Table

SAND
GRAVEL Silt Clay

Coarse Medium Fine

>4.75 4.7-2.0 2.0-0.42 0.42-0.07 0.07-0.002 <0.002

3.9 Specific Gravity of Soil

Specific gravity of soil is defined as the ratio of the weight of an equal volume of distilled
water at that temperature both weights taken in air. The knowledge of specific gravity is needed
in calculation of soil properties like void ratio, degree of saturation etc.

Apparatus

• Density bottle of 50 ml with stopper having a capillary hole.

• Balance to weigh the materials
• Wash bottle with distilled water

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 30

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

Procedure

• Firstly clean and dry the density bottle and wash the bottle with water and allow it to
drain.
• Weigh the empty bottle with the stopper (W1).

Now take about 10 to 20 gm of soil sample and transfer it to the bottle. Find the weight
of the bottle and soil (W2).
• After knowing the weight of the bottle weigh the soil, put 10ml of distilled water in to
the bottle to allow the soil to soak completely.
• Again fill the bottle completely with distilled water put the stopper. Now determine the
weight of the bottle (W3).
• Now empty the bottle thoroughly and clean it. Fill the bottle with only distilled water
and weigh it. Let it be (W4).
• Repeat the same procedure for 2 – 3 times to take the average reading of it.

3.10 CALIFORNIA BEARING RATIO

The California Bearing Ratio (CBR) is a test method used to evaluate the mechanical strength
and load-bearing capacity of soil. It was developed by the California Division of Highways in
the 1930s and has since become a widely accepted standard for assessing the suitability of soils
for road construction and other engineering projects.

The CBR test involves compacting a soil sample into a mold at various moisture levels and
densities and then subjecting it to a standardized load. The ratio of the test load required to
penetrate the soil to a certain depth to the load required to achieve the same penetration in a
standard crushed stone material is expressed as a percentage and referred to as the CBR value.

The CBR value indicates the relative strength and stiffness of the soil compared to the standard
material. Higher CBR values typically indicate stronger and more competent soils, while lower
values indicate weaker and less stable soils. The CBR test helps engineers and geotechnical
professionals determine the thickness of the pavement layers needed for a given soil condition
and design appropriate foundations for structures.

CBR values are influenced by factors such as soil type, moisture content, compaction level,
and the presence of organic matter. Different soil types have different natural strengths, so it's
essential to consider the specific characteristics of the soil being tested.

The CBR test is widely used in geotechnical engineering and is an important parameter in the
design and construction of roads, airfields, embankments, and other civil engineering projects
where the load-bearing capacity of the soil is crucial. It helps engineers make informed
decisions about soil stabilization techniques, material selection, and pavement design to ensure
the long-term performance and safety of infrastructure.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 31

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

CALIFORNIA BEARING RATIO TEST

California Bearing Ratio (CBR) is a measure of the strength of the sub grade of a road or
other paved area, and of the materials used in its construction.

The ratio is measured using a standardized penetration test first developed by the California
Division of Highways for highway engineering. Empirical tests measure the strength of the
material and are not a true representation of the resilient modulus.Mechanical vibrator is shown
in the figure 3.5.

Figure 3.5: Mechanical vibrator

Apparatus

• Cylindrical mould with inside diameter 150mm and height 175mm provided with
detachable extension color 50mm height and a detachable base plate 10mm thick.
• Spacer disc 148mm in diameter and 47.7mm in height along with handle.
Metal rammer weight 2.6kg with drop of 310mm or 4.80kg drop of 450mm.
• Weights one annular metal weight and several slotted weights weighing 2.5kg each
147mm diameter with central hole 5.3mm in diameter.
• Metal penetration 50mm diameter and minimum 100mm length.
• Sieves 4.75mm and 20mm are sieves.

Procedure

• Take about 4.5 to 5.5kg of soil and mix it with the required amount of water

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 32

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

• Fix the extension collar and the base plate to the mould. Now insert the spacer disc over
the base plate and place the filter paper on the top of the spacer disc.
• Compact the mix soil in the mould using either light compaction or heavy compaction,
for light compaction the soil in 3 equal layers being given 55 blows by the 2.6kg rammer.
For heavy compaction compact the soil in 5 layers 6 blows to each layer by the 4.89 kg
rammer. After compaction remove the collar and a trim excess soil.
• Turn the mould upside down and remove the base plate and the displacer disc.California
Bearing ratio test is shown in the figure 3.6

Figure 3.6: Fly Ash

Weight the mould with compacted soil and determine the bulk density and dry density
put the filter paper on the top of the compacted soil and clamp the perforated base plate
on it.
• Place the mould assemble with the surcharge weight on the penetration test machine.
• Set the stress and strain dial gauge to record zero. Apply the load on the piston to the
penetration rate is about 1.25mm/minute.
• Record the load reading at penetrations of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 4.0, 7.5, 10,
12.5mm. Note the maximum load and corresponding penetration if it occurs for a
penetration less than 12.5mm.
• Detach the mould from loading test.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 33

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

As per IS 2720, the standard values for penetration readings are shown in the table

Table 3.5: The standard values for penetration readings

Penetration Standard load (kg) Unit standard

reading loading (kg/cm2)

2.5 1370 70

5 2055 105

7.5 2630 134

10.0 3180 162

12.5 3600 183

3.11 SUMMARY

In this chapter we have concluded the use of fly ash and discussed about the chemical and
physical properties of fly ash. We have also performed all the tests as per IS 2720 such as
liquid limit, plastic limit, specific gravity, proctor test and CBR.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 34

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

CHAPTER 4

STUDY INTERPRETATION
4.1 INTRODUCTION

In the previous chapter discussed about the properties of the materials like soil, admixtures,
water and experimental work. This chapter indicates the result of the various tests carried out
as mentioned in the previous chapter. The results are gathered from the various objectives and
tests results.

The objective of the experimental work is to find out the effect of red sandy soil in construction.
Various tests were performed such as California bearing ratio, liquid limit, plastic limit, specific
gravity. The test procedures are followed as per bureau of Indian standards. In this chapter we
are discussing about fly ash is added to red sandy soil with different proportions i.e. 3%, 6%
and 9%. In this chapter we are showing comparison of red soil strength and red soil mixed fly
ash in different proportions.

4.2 CONSISTENCY LIMITS

4.2.1 Liquid Limit Test

It is the water content of the soil between the liquid state and plastic state of the soil. It can be
defined as the minimum water content at which the soil, through in liquid state, shows small
shearing strength against flowing. It measured by casagrande’s apparatus and denoted by (W1).

In liquid limit tests fly ash is mixed with soil in different proportions such as 3% and 6% and
9%.

Hence, the relationship between the Atterberg limits and the electrical conductivity of the soil
can be linked to soil mineralogy. In addition to the mineralogy, the electrical conductivity of
the soil in situ is partially governed by the electrical conductivity of the pore fluid and the water
content.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 35

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

Table 4.1 Liquid Limit Test of soil with Zero % fly ash

S.no Des S1 S2 S3 S4

1 C.N 22 16 14 17

2 W 28.45 27.49 27.85 26.02

3 W 38.98 38.67 37.95 37.05

4 W 37.28 36.45 35.43 33.72

5 N.O.B 54 46 38 27

6 W 1.7 2.22 2.52 3.33

7 W 8.83 8.96 7.58 7.7

8 W 19.25 24.77 33.24 42.34

9 Avg 29.68

Graph
45
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60

Number of Blows

Figure 4.1: Graph between Moisture content And Number of Blows For 0% Of Fly Ash.

The relationship between water content on (Y axis) and number of blows (X axis) on semilog
Graph is plotted on shown in a figure 4.1. The relationship obtained is called flow curve.From
the above graph, we can conclude that as we increase the water content decrease in the blows.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 36

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

Table 4.2: Liquid limit Test of soil with 3% of fly ash.

S.no Des S1 S2 S3 S4

1 C.N 8 12 2 14

2 W 27.98 27.29 27.45 26.02

3 W 38.88 38.47 37.89 37.05

4 W 37.18 36.25 35.35 33.72

5 N.O.B 52 43 36 27

6 W 1.6 2.28 2.54 3.33

7 W 9.2 8.96 7.9 7.7

8 W 17.89 25.44 32.15 43.24

9 Avg 29.68

Graph
50
45
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Number of blows

Figure 4.2 Graph between Moisture content And Number of Blows For 3% Of Fly Ash.
The relationship between water content on (Y-axis) and number of blows (X axis) on semilog
Graph is plotted on shown in a figure 4.2. The relationship obtained is called flow curve. From
the above graph, we can conclude that as we increase the water content decrease in the blows.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 37

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

Table 4.3 Liquid limit Test of soil with 6% fly ash

S.no Des S1 S2 S3 S4

1 C.N 7 9 3 11

2 W 32.12 29.50 27.41 25.68

3 W 42.12 40.23 38.94 37.23

4 W 40.19 37.92 36.23 34.27

5 N.O.B 50 42 36 26

6 W 1.93 2.31 2.71 2.96

7 W 8.07 8.42 8.82 8.59

8 W 23.91 27.43 30.72 34.45

9 Avg 29.12

Graph

40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Number of blows

Figure 4.3 Graph between Moisture content And Number of Blows For 6% Of Fly Ash.
The relationship between water content The relationship between water content on ( Y axis)
and number of blows (X axis) on semi-log Graph is plotted on shown in a figure 4.3. The
relationship obtained is called flow curve. From the above graph, we can conclude that as we
increase the water content decrease in the blows.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 38

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

Table 4.4: Liquid limit test of soil with 9% of fly ash

S.No Des S1 S2 S3 S4

1 C.N 7 9 3 11

2 W 32.12 29.50 27.41 25.68

3 W 42.12 40.23 38.94 37.23

4 W 40.19 37.92 36.23 34.27

5 N.O.B 50 42 36 26

6 W 1.93 2.31 2.71 2.96

7 W 8.07 8.42 8.82 8.59

8 W 23.91 27.43 30.72 34.45

9 Avg .29.12

Graph
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
Number of blows

Figure 4.4 Graph between Moisture content And Number of Blows For 9% Of Fly Ash.

The relationship between water content on ( Y axis) and number of blows (X axis) on semilog
Graph is plotted on shown in a figure 4.4. The relationship obtained is called flow curve. From
the above graph, we can conclude that as we increase the water content decrease in the blows.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 39

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

The below figure 4.5 shows the relation between the fly ash percent to the number of blows.

30.2
30
29.8
29.6
29.4
29.2
29
28.8
28.6
28.4
28.2
28
0 2 4 6 8 10
Number of blows

Figure 4.5 Graph between percentages of fly ash and water content.

From the figure 4.5 we can conclude that, as we increase in the percentage of fly ash decrease
in the water content.

The relationship between water content on ( Y axis) and number of blows (X axis) on semilog
Graph is plotted on shown in a figure 4.4. The relationship obtained is called flow curve. From
the above graph, we can conclude that as we increase the water content decrease in the blows.

4.2.2 Plastic limit

In this test the fly ash mixed in different proportions such as 3%, 6% and 9%. The limit lies
between plastic and semi-solid state of the soil. The observations of the plastic limit tests are
shown in table 4.5 below.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 40

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

Table 4.5: Plastic Limit of soil with different proportions

S.NO Des S1 S2 S3 S4

1 C.N 8 24 2 11

2 W 27.52 24.23 34.41 27.50

3 W 37.56 28.39 40.13 37.90

4 W 35.85 27.88 39.09 36.62

5 N.O.B 1.71 0.81 1.23 2.53

6 W 8.34 3.68 4.68 9.13

7 W 20.50 22.31 26.28 27.71

Graph
30

25

20

15

10

0
0 2 4 6 8 10

Figure 4.6: Graph between moisture content and fly ash percentage added to the soil.

The relationship between water content on (Y axis) and number of blows (X axis) on semilog
Graph is plotted on shown in a figure 4.4. The relationship obtained is called flow curve. From
the above graph, we can conclude that as we increase the fly ash percentage increase in water
content.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 41

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

4.3 COMPACTION TEST

4.3.1 Proctor test

Standard proctor test is conducted with soil samples under equal proportions with 3%,6% and
9%. Fly ash to determine the optimum moisture content and dry density of soil. After the
experimental procedure of proctor test the values of dry density is known from oven dry of the
sample. A is to be plotted between the water content and dry density. From this graph we can
find the optimum moisture content (OMC). Take water percentage added on x axis and dry
density on y axis. The observations of proctor test are shown in below table 6.7 Calculation

1. Mould dimensions
• Height (H) = 12.7cm
• Diameter (D) = 10cm
• Volume (V) = Area * Height
78.53 * 12.7
997.45 = 1000cm3
Weight (w) = 2.25 kg
2. Dry density = δ/1+w(g/cc)
• Where b = bulk density
• Bulk density b = w1/mould volume (g/cc)
• Where w1 = weight of compacted soil (kg)

Table 4.6: Standard proctor test of soil with Zero percentage of fly ash

S.NO Des S1 S2 S3 S4 S5

1 Vg 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000

2 W1g 2250 2250 2250 2250 2250

3 W2 g 3620 3848 4023 4198 4085

4 Wg 1370 1598 1773 1948 1835

5 Ƴ b g/cc 1.37 1.59 1.77 1.94 1.83

6 Ww % 0.06 0.08 0.12 0.15 0.19

7 Ƴ d g/cc 1.29 1.47 1.58 1.63 1.53

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 42

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

Table 4.7: Standard Proctor Test of Soil With 3% of Fly Ash

S.NO Des S1 S2 S3 S4 S5

1 Vg 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000

2 W1g 2250 2250 2250 2250 2250

3 W2 g 3654 3968 4128 4279 4146

4 Wg 1404 1718 1878 2029 1896

5 Ƴ b g/cc 1.40 1.78 1.87 2.02 1.89

6 Ww % 0.05 0.09 0.12 0.16 0.19

7 Ƴ d g/cc 1.33 1.56 1.66 1.74 1.58

Table 4.8 Standard Proctor Test of Soil With 6% of Fly Ash

S.No Des S1 S2 S3 S4 S5

1 Vg 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000

2 W1 g 2250 2250 2250 2250 2250

3 W2 g 3750 3950 4209 4500 4203

4 Wg 1500 1700 1959 2250 1953

5 Ƴb 1.5 1.7 1.95 2.25 1.95

6 Ww 0.03 0.09 0.13 0.18 0.22

7 Ƴd 1.45 1.55 1.72 1.90 1.59

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 43

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

Table 4.9: Standard Proctor test of soil with 9% of fly ash

S.No Des S1 S2 S3 S4 S4

1 Vg 1000 1000 1000 1000 1000

2 W1 g 2250 2250 2250 2250 2250

3 W2 g 3783 3932 4139 4436 4175

4 Wg 1533 1682 1889 2186 1925

5 Ƴ b g/cc 1.53 1.68 1.88 2.18 1.92

6 Ww % 0.01 0.03 0.05 0.09 0.12

7 Ƴ dg/cc 1.51 1.63 1.78 2 1.71

4.4 SIEVE ANALYSIS

Table 4.10 Grain size Analysis

S.No IS Sieve size Weight Percentage Cumulative Cumulative

retained (g) weight Percentage Percentage
retained Weight finer
retained
1 4.75mm 0 0 0 100

2 2.36mm 172 172 17.2 82.8

3 1.18mm 523.5 523.5 69.55 30.45

4 600mm 157.5 157.5 85.3 14.7

5 425mm 119 11.9 99.2 2.8

6 300mm 2.1 2.1 99.3 0.7

7 150mm 2 0.2 99.5 0.5

8 75mm 3 0.3 99.8 0.12

9 pan 2 0.2 100 0

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 44

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

4.5 SPECIFIC GRAVITY

The specific gravity of soil is shown below in table 4.11

Table 4.11 specific gravity of soil

S.NO Description Sample -1

1 Weight of density 25.69 gm

bottle(w1)
2 Weight of density + dry 55.67gm
soil(W2)
3 Weight of bottle + dry soil 91.24 gm
+water at temperature (we)
4 Weight of bottle + 76.21gm
water(w4)
5 Specific gravity 2.07gm

4.6 CALIFORNIA BEARING RATIO (CBR)

Table 4.12 CBR test observation with zero percentage of fly ash
S.NO Penetration Load dial Load dial
Readings Proving Ring Corrected load
1 0.5 4 9.05

2 1.0 7.6 23.53

3 1.5 13.4 39.72

4 2.0 17.5 53.58

5 2.5 21.4 64.47

6 3.0 24.3 73.02

7 3.5 25.9 78.89

8 4.0 27.8 84.70

9 4.5 29.2 88.56

10 5.0 30.8 92.93

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 45

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

Table 4.13: CBR test soil with 3% of fly ash

S.NO Penetration Load dial Load dial

Proving Ring Corrected load
1 0.5 3.5 10.03

2 1.0 6.1 16.28

3 1.5 7.3 20.30

4 2 8.5 28.23

5 2.5 14.2 42.84

6 3.0 16.2 49.92

7 3.5 18.7 56.21

8 4.0 19.8 59.21

9 4.5 20.9 61.82

10 5.0 21.13 63.75

Table 4.14 CBR test soil with 6% of fly ash

S.NO Penetration Load dial Load dial

readings Proving ring Corrected load
1 0.5 3.2 10.25

2 1.0 9.9 28.36

3 1.5 16.9 50.69

4 2.0 21.2 63.38

5 2.5 26 78.45

6 3.0 27.4 82.09

7 3.5 30.2 90.60

8 4.0 32.2 96.60

9 4.5 36.4 105.70

10 5.0 37.7 113.75

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 46

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

Table 4.15 CBR test soil with 9% of fly ash

S.NO Penetration Load dial Load dial

readings Proving ring Corrected load
1 0.5 6.6 18.51

2 1.0 10.9 27.8

3 1.5 12.8 34.62

4 2.0 17.1 45.20

5 2.5 19.4 58.53

6 3.0 21.2 59.36

7 3.5 22.5 65.76

8 4.0 23.0 67.97

9 4.5 24.8 73.62

10 5.0 26.9 81.16

4.7 COST ANALYSIS

4.7.1 Introduction

A cost analysis involves the process of reporting the separate elements in proposal such as fly
ash and red soil. It is used for the cost-evaluation purpose when there is a lack of competition.

4.7.2 Cost Analysis For Soil Stabilization

Table 4.16: Cost Analysis Table

S.NO Materials Quantity Rate Amount

1 Red soil 50kgs 5/- per kg 250Rs

2 Fly ash 20kgs 20/- per kg 400Rs

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 47

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

4.8 SUMMARY

In this chapter the different soil test were done with different proportions of dry fly ash such as
3%, 6% and 9%. We observed that by adding the admixtures the strength of the soil may
increase or decreasing.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 48

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

CHAPTER 5

CONCLUSION

5.1 CONCLUSION

➢ Based on the experimental investigation the following conclusions are made.

➢ The addition of fly ash to the red soil, decreases the liquid limit from 29.91 to 31.10.
The maximum liquid limit value is for 9% of fly ash i.e 31.10. The liquid limit value of
red soil is decreased with increasing of fly ash percentage 3% to 9%.
➢ The addition of fly ash to red soil increases the plastic limit from 20.50 to 32.48.The
maximum plastic limit value is obtained at 9% of fly ash i.e 32.48.The plastic limit
value of red soil is increased with increasing if fly ash percentage 3% to 9%.
➢ The addition of fly increases the dry density of red soil from 1.63gm/cc to 2.00gm/cc.
The maximum dry density is attending at 9% of fly ash.
➢ The addition of fly ash increases the CBR test from 3.34% to 5.72%. The maximum
CBR value is obtained at 6% of fly ash.

5.2 FUTURE SCOPE

Fly ash is a byproduct of coal combustion in power plants, and it has been widely used as a soil
stabilizer due to its pozzolanic properties and ability to improve the engineering properties of
soils. Looking into the future, there are several potential scopes for the stabilization of soil
using fly ash:

1. Sustainable Construction: With a growing emphasis on sustainable construction practices,

the use of fly ash as a soil stabilizer aligns with the goal of reducing waste and utilizing
industrial byproducts. It helps in reducing the consumption of natural resources and promotes
the reuse of materials.

2. Infrastructure Development: As the demand for infrastructure continues to rise, there will be
a need for efficient and cost-effective soil stabilization techniques. Fly ash can play a
significant role in enhancing the strength and stability of weak soils, thereby providing a
sustainable solution for infrastructure development.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 49

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

3. Environmental Benefits: The use of fly ash in soil stabilization can contribute to reducing
greenhouse gas emissions and carbon footprint. By utilizing fly ash, it becomes possible to
decrease the reliance on cement, which is a major source of carbon dioxide emissions in the
construction industry.

4. Urbanization and Land Utilization: As urban areas expand, there is a growing need to
develop infrastructure on marginal or poor-quality soils. Fly ash stabilization can help improve
the load-bearing capacity and compressibility of such soils, making them suitable for
construction purposes and enabling better land utilization.

5. Research and Development: Ongoing research and development efforts can lead to
advancements in fly ash stabilization techniques. This includes exploring optimal mix designs,
assessing long-term performance, investigating the influence of different soil types, and
developing guidelines and specifications for the effective use of fly ash in soil stabilization.

6. Geotechnical Applications: Besides road construction, fly ash stabilization can find
applications in other geotechnical projects, such as embankments, slopes, and foundations.
Continued research and case studies can provide valuable insights into the performance and
applicability of fly ash stabilization in various geotechnical scenarios.

It is important to note that the successful implementation of fly ash stabilization requires careful
consideration of factors such as fly ash characteristics, soil properties, environmental
conditions, and engineering design. Proper quality control measures and adherence to
guidelines are crucial to ensure the desired outcomes and long-term stability of the stabilized
soil.

Overall, the future scope for the stabilization of soil using fly ash lies in its continued research,
development of standardized procedures, and integration into sustainable construction
practices to address the challenges of soil improvement and infrastructure development.

5.3 SUMMARY

This study was oriented towards improving the strength of soil by using locally available by
product i.e fly ash to reduce the construction cost. From the results of various soil tests it is
concluded that, the stabilization soil by using fly ash is a effective process for the strengthening
of soil

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 50

 STABILIZATION OF SOIL BY ADDITION OF FLY ASH

REFERENCES:

[1]. V.Samidurai, Mohanavel, and Manoj kumar(2018) “Stabilization of Black Cotton Soil by
Fly ash”, International Journal of Application or Innovative in Engineering and Management.

[2]. M.K.sharma and N.M.vyas (2017 ), “Fly ash Utilization in Soil Stabilization”,
International Conference on Civil, Biological and Environmental Engineering, CBEE, pp76-
[3]. Ankur (2014) “priniciples of soil stabilization “, JHRPPublicationIndiana

[4]. shelke and murthy (2010), “Soil Stabilization by Using Fly ash”, IOSR Journal of Civil
and Mechanical Engineering, IOSR-JMCE, Vol. 10, pp 20-26.

[5]. Bhuvaneshwari, S., Robinson, R.G., Gandhi, S. R. (2005), “Stabilization of Expansive

Soils Using Fly ash”, Fly Ash Utilization Programme , FAUP, TIFAC, DST, Vol. 8, pp 5.15.9

[6]. Phanikumar and sharma (2004), “Laboratory Study on Soil Stabilization Using Fly ash
Mixtures ”, International Journal of Civil Engineering Science and Innovative Technology, vol.
2, pp 477-481.

[7]. PANDIAN ET.AL.(2002) ,“Guidelines for Soil and Granular Material Stabilization Using
Cement, Lime and Fly ash”, Indian Road Congress, New Delhi.

[8]. Erdal Cokca (2001) “Use Of Class C Fly Ashes for the Stabilization of an Expansive Soil”
Journal of Geotechnical and Geo environmental Engineering Vol. 127,July,pp.

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, MRITS Page 51