Investigation of glass fiber potential in soil stabilization

Abstract

The use of natural fibers to reinforce soil is an old and ancient idea. Traditional geosynthetics such as geotextile, geogrid etc. have proved to be efficient, and are increasingly used in geotechnical engineering. In contrast, the use of glass fibers in soil needs further investigation. Soil samples were obtained from borrow pits at Ajibode and Chapel both located in the University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria and stabilized with procured glass fiber at proportions of 0.4%. 0.8%, 1.2%, 1.6%, 2.0%, 2.5% and 3.0% by weight. Tests such as particle size analysis, compaction and California bearing ratio (CBR) were carried out on the unstabilized (control) soil samples. Thereafter, the compaction and CBR tests were carried out on stabilized soil samples. The results showed an improvement in the two soils’ maximum dry density and CBR on addition of the glass fibers. The glass fibers had optimum effect on the soils between 1.2% and 1.6% of soil samples. Therefore, incorporating glass fiber into the soils in the required quantity will enhance soils’ CBR and density.