Experimental Investigation of Mechanical Behaviors of Fiber-Reinforced Fly Ash-Soil Mixture

Abstract

In recent years, applications of different types of solid waste in fiber-reinforced soil are developed to improve the strength of soil. This study presents an experimental investigation of mechanical properties of polypropylene fiber-reinforced fly ash-soil mixtures. A series of direct shear tests and unconfined compression tests were carried out. The effects of fly ash content and fiber content on compaction characteristics, shear strength, strength parameters, and unconfined compressive strength of the reinforced soil are investigated and discussed. Results reveal that when the fly ash content of the specimen exceeds 20% and the curing period exceeds 14 days, specimens become more brittle in the unconfined compression tests. It can be deduced that 30% fly ash and 1% fiber provide the optimum content, and the inclusion of fiber reinforcement has positive benefits on the mechanical properties of the reinforced soil to a certain extent.