Journal Published Online: 25 November 2013
Volume 2, Issue 1

Effect of Coir Waste on the Geotechnical Characteristics of Soil

CODEN: ACEMF9

Abstract

Kerala (the southernmost state in India), which is named after a coconut tree, is the first place that produced coir. The process of coir extraction produces coir waste, the disposal of which is becoming a major problem recently. Coir waste includes dusty matter called coir pith, along with some baby fibers. Studies have not yet been conducted on the influence of these coir wastes regarding the engineering behavior of soil. Two types of soils viz. lateritic soil and soft clay have been considered using different percentage of coir waste ranging from 0.5 % to 3 % by weight of soil. The main objective of the present investigation is to assess the usefulness of coir waste as a soil admixture and is focused on its influence on the engineering properties of soil. The present study covers the characterization of soils and coir pith, compaction behavior, CA bearing ratio, swelling and compressibility behavior. The results show that addition of coir waste modifies the geotechnical characteristics of both types of soils.

Author Information

Jayasree, P.
College of Engineering, Trivandrum, IN
Balan, K.
College of Engineering, Trivandrum, IN
Nisha, K.
College of Engineering, Trivandrum, IN
Thushara, T.
College of Engineering, Trivandrum, IN
Pages: 13
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: ACEM20120039
ISSN: 2165-3984
DOI: 10.1520/ACEM20120039