Enhancing Geotechnical Properties of Clayey Soil with Recycled Plastic and Glass Waste

Abstract

Expansive clay soils, characterized by their propensity to undergo significant volume changes in response to moisture variations, present considerable challenges in construction engineering. These challenges manifest as structural damage, including fractures, asymmetrical settlements, and erosion. This study investigates the application of sustainable waste materials, specifically a mixture of plastic and glass waste, as an innovative approach to soil stabilization. In the context of Anbar, Iraq, laboratory experiments were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of incorporating plastic and glass waste in various proportions (0%, 4%, 5%, 6%) into clayey soil. The primary focus was to assess changes in geotechnical properties, notably the reduction in swelling potential and alterations in the maximum dry unit weight of the soil. Results indicated that the inclusion of waste materials in the specified proportions significantly mitigated the soil's swelling behavior, with reductions of 2%, 3%, and 5% observed for the respective waste content. Concurrently, enhancements in soil density were recorded, with increases in the maximum dry unit weight by 4%, 5%, and 9% corresponding to the same proportions of waste additives. These findings underscore the potential of using recycled waste materials in soil stabilization, aligning with environmental sustainability goals through the repurposing of waste. Additionally, this approach offers an economically viable alternative to traditional stabilization methods. The utilization of waste materials not only addresses the environmental impact of construction activities but also contributes to the broader goal of waste management and resource conservation.