In a groundbreaking study that intertwines environmental sustainability with civil engineering, researchers have explored the innovative use of waste plastics to enhance the engineering properties of lateritic soil, a common material in road construction across tropical regions like Nigeria. This research, led by Ifeyinwa Ijeoma Obianyo from the Department of Civil Engineering at Nile University of Nigeria, presents a promising solution to two pressing issues: the poor performance of lateritic soil in road construction and the growing crisis of plastic waste.
Lateritic soil, while widely used, often suffers from low bearing capacity and strength, particularly when saturated with moisture. This can lead to costly pavement failures and maintenance challenges. On the other hand, the world grapples with a staggering amount of plastic waste, with estimates suggesting that over 8.3 billion tons have been produced since the 1950s, much of which ends up in landfills or pollutes the environment. By integrating shredded waste plastics into lateritic soil, this research aims to address both the shortcomings of the soil and the urgent need for effective waste management.
Obianyo’s team conducted a series of experiments incorporating varying percentages of shredded plastic waste into lateritic soil samples. They found that a 2% addition of shredded plastic resulted in the highest maximum dry density, while a 10% mix yielded the greatest optimum moisture content. However, it is important to note that the California Bearing Ratio (CBR) decreased with the increase in plastic content, indicating that while the modified soil may not be suitable for high-traffic roads, it could effectively serve in low-traffic applications.
“This approach not only enhances the properties of lateritic soil but also offers a sustainable method to recycle plastic waste,” Obianyo explained. “By diverting plastic from landfills and utilizing it in construction materials, we are contributing to a circular economy and supporting environmental sustainability.”
The implications of this research extend beyond environmental benefits; they present significant commercial opportunities for the construction sector. As the demand for sustainable building practices grows, integrating recycled materials into infrastructure projects could not only reduce costs associated with traditional stabilizers like cement and lime but also position companies as leaders in innovative, eco-friendly construction solutions.
The study highlights a critical shift in how the construction industry might approach material sourcing and waste management. By adopting practices that incorporate waste plastics, construction firms could not only enhance the durability and performance of their projects but also align with global sustainability goals, ultimately leading to a more resilient and responsible industry.
Published in the journal ‘Polymers’, this research underscores the potential of using waste plastics in soil stabilization, paving the way for future investigations into the long-term effects and broader applications of this technique. As the construction sector evolves, integrating sustainable practices like these could redefine industry standards, making way for a future where waste is not just discarded but repurposed for the greater good.
For more information about the lead author and her work, visit the Department of Civil Engineering, Nile University of Nigeria.