In the vast and varied landscapes of Algeria, where civil engineering projects often grapple with the challenges posed by swelling soils, a groundbreaking study has emerged, offering a promising solution to an age-old problem. Researchers Mohamed Benaissa and Yassine Senhadji have delved into the potential of natural pozzolan (NP) to stabilize two problematic swelling clays, one from M’zila in the province of Mostaganem and the other from Bourmadia in Relizane. Their findings, published in the journal *Nature Environment and Pollution Technology* (translated as *Natural Environment and Pollution Technology*), could significantly impact the energy sector and other construction industries.
Swelling soils, known for their ability to expand when wet and shrink when dry, have long been a nuisance to engineers. They cause major disorders in civil engineering structures, leading to costly repairs and delays. The study by Benaissa and Senhadji aimed to tackle this issue head-on by investigating the effects of adding different proportions of NP from Béni-saf to these problematic soils.
The results were striking. The researchers found that the cohesion coefficients of the treated soils improved dramatically. “The rectilinear shear test at the Casagrande box showed that the cohesion coefficients of Bourmadia and M’zila soils containing 10% NP improved by 93.3% and 47.1%, respectively,” Benaissa explained. This enhancement in cohesion is a critical factor in ensuring the stability and longevity of construction projects.
Moreover, the oedometer test results indicated that NP was effective in inhibiting the swelling potential of both clay soils. This is a significant finding, as it suggests that NP could be a viable solution for stabilizing expansive soils, which are often encountered in the implementation of civil engineering structures and construction projects.
The implications of this research are far-reaching, particularly for the energy sector. In regions where swelling soils are prevalent, the use of NP could lead to more stable and durable infrastructure, reducing maintenance costs and improving safety. “Overall, the outcomes suggest that NP from the region of Béni-saf has remarkable potential for improving the geotechnical properties of expansive soils,” Senhadji noted.
As the world continues to grapple with the challenges posed by swelling soils, the findings of this study offer a beacon of hope. By harnessing the power of natural pozzolan, engineers and construction professionals may soon have a more effective tool at their disposal, one that could shape the future of civil engineering in regions prone to soil swelling. The research not only highlights the potential of NP but also underscores the importance of continued investigation into natural materials for sustainable and resilient construction practices.