Influence of random inclusion of treated sisal fibres on the unconfined compressive strength of highly compressible clay

Abstract

Reinforcement in the form of strips, grids, and fibres enhances engineering properties of soil. In this study, an attempt has been made to use treated sisal fibres to reinforce the soil so that unconfined compressive strength can be enhanced. The compaction characteristics, stress-strain behavior, strength and failure patterns of the unreinforced, and reinforced sisal fibre reinforced soil were investigated. The inclusion of sisal fibres increases the strength and modifies compressibility and permeability of the soil. The results of the study show that the addition of sisal fibres to soil causes an increase in optimum moisture content and a decrease in dry density. The unconfined compressive strength and post-peak strength of the reinforced soil increase with fibre content of 2%. Failure pattern shows that fibre has a significant control over the development of cracks. Fibre inclusion suppresses the development of long cracks as they act as tension reinforcements. The use of sisal fibres gives the advantage of an eco-friendly material that aids sustainable development, in addition to the beneficial modification of soil properties.