In the pursuit of sustainable construction practices, researchers are increasingly turning to waste materials to enhance geotechnical properties of soils. A recent study published in the journal *Architecture, Civil Engineering, Environment* (translated from Polish as *Architektura, Budownictwo, Środowisko*) explores the potential of basalt dust, a byproduct of basalt rock crushing, as a partial replacement for non-cohesive soil. The research, led by Assistant Professor Iwona Chmielewska from the Bialystok University of Technology, offers promising insights for the construction and energy sectors, particularly in reducing waste and minimizing environmental impact.
Basalt dust, commonly used in construction, horticulture, and agriculture, has now been investigated for its geotechnical applications. “The idea was to see if we could improve the properties of non-cohesive soils by adding basalt dust,” Chmielewska explains. “This could lead to more sustainable construction practices and reduce the need for raw materials.”
The study involved laboratory tests on soil samples with varying percentages of basalt dust—5%, 10%, and 15%—added to the dry mass of soil. The tests measured compactibility, permeability, compressibility, and shear strength, providing a comprehensive analysis of how basalt dust affects these critical geotechnical parameters.
One of the key findings was the improvement in the coefficient of permeability, which is crucial for managing water flow in construction projects. “The addition of basalt dust significantly altered the permeability of the soil, which could be beneficial in applications where water drainage is a concern,” Chmielewska notes.
The research also highlighted changes in compaction parameters, constrained modulus, and internal friction angle, all of which are vital for the stability and durability of construction projects. These findings suggest that basalt dust could be a viable additive for enhancing the geotechnical properties of soils, particularly in non-cohesive soils that are often challenging to work with.
For the energy sector, the implications are substantial. Sustainable geotechnical engineering practices can reduce the environmental footprint of construction projects, which is increasingly important as the industry strives to meet global sustainability goals. By utilizing waste materials like basalt dust, construction companies can minimize waste generation and reduce the need for raw materials, ultimately lowering greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption.
Chmielewska’s research underscores the potential for waste materials to play a significant role in future construction practices. “This study is just the beginning,” she says. “There is still much to explore in terms of optimizing the use of basalt dust and other waste materials in geotechnical engineering.”
As the construction industry continues to evolve, the integration of sustainable practices will be crucial. Chmielewska’s work published in *Architektura, Budownictwo, Środowisko* provides a foundation for further research and practical applications, offering a glimpse into a future where waste materials are not just discarded but repurposed to enhance the very foundations of our built environment.