In a groundbreaking study published in ‘Advances in Civil Engineering’, Jagadish Vengala from the Department of Civil Engineering has unveiled a promising approach to soil stabilization that could reshape construction practices. This research focuses on the innovative use of sugarcane bagasse ash (BA), an agricultural by-product, combined with lime to enhance the properties of clayey soil, which is often challenging in construction projects.
Soil stabilization is a crucial factor in ensuring the durability and safety of infrastructure. Traditionally, materials such as cement and lime have dominated this space, but Vengala’s study introduces a sustainable alternative that leverages waste materials, potentially transforming how the construction industry approaches soil improvement. “The combination of sugarcane bagasse ash and lime not only enhances the physical properties of clayey soil but also addresses environmental concerns regarding waste disposal,” Vengala explains.
The research involved a series of geotechnical tests, including Proctor compaction, unconfined compressive strength (UCS), and California Bearing Ratio (CBR) tests. By experimenting with different proportions of BA and lime—ranging from 0% to 12%—the study found significant improvements in the soil’s maximum dry density (MDD) and UCS. Remarkably, the UCS of the stabilized soil increased by an astounding 300% to 400% compared to unstabilized soil, while CBR values showed improvements of 61.32% in soaked conditions and 50% in unsoaked conditions.
The peak performance was observed with a mixture of 8% BA and 12% lime, marking a pivotal moment for soil stabilization techniques. This combination not only enhances soil strength but also promotes sustainability by reducing reliance on conventional materials. “Our findings suggest that these mixtures can effectively improve the performance of clayey soils in construction, paving the way for more durable infrastructure,” Vengala noted.
The implications of this research extend beyond technical improvements; they herald a shift towards more sustainable construction practices. By integrating agricultural waste into soil stabilization, the construction sector can reduce its environmental footprint while enhancing the safety and longevity of its projects. This innovative approach could lead to cost savings and a decrease in the demand for traditional materials, aligning with global sustainability goals.
As the construction industry continues to grapple with the challenges of material scarcity and environmental impact, Vengala’s research offers a glimpse into a future where waste materials are not just discarded but repurposed for critical applications. This study not only contributes to the academic discourse but also stands to influence practical methodologies in construction, ensuring that infrastructure development is both effective and environmentally responsible.
For more insights into this research, you can visit Department of Civil Engineering, where Jagadish Vengala and his team continue to explore innovative solutions for modern engineering challenges.