ENHANCING SHEAR STRENGTH IN FOUNDATIONAL SOILS, LIKE CLAYEY OR SANDY SOILS, USING POLYPROPYLENE FIBER

Abstract

The stability and load-bearing capacity of foundational soils are critical factors in civil engineering and construction projects. Weak soils often require enhancement to support structural loads effectively, and polypropylene fiber (PPF) has emerged as a promising material in soil stabilization. This paper explores the mechanisms, benefits, and practical applications of using polypropylene fiber to improve the shear strength of foundational soils. Experimental findings, case studies, and theoretical analyses are reviewed to provide a comprehensive understanding of this method. Also, fiber reinforcement has been widely acknowledged as an effective technique for enhancing soil properties in various geotechnical applications, particularly for fill materials. However, its application in clayey soils has been less extensively studied compared to sandy soils, despite showing comparable potential for practical use. The underlying mechanisms governing the shear strength and deformation behavior of clay-fiber composites remain inadequately understood, along with the factors influencing their performance under different drainage conditions.