Strength and CBR Properties of Soil using Coal Dust as an Admixture

Abstract

The modified soil developed for the road construction industry would be in a line with the practice of engineering
in an environment-friendly and sustainable way. Instead of using conventional materials like aggregates as the various
layers, the modified soil is the better option simultaneously reducing cost and utilizing the sub soil, which has been removed
otherwise. This research investigate on the use of non-traditional construction materials, specifically coal dust as an
engineering material in sub-grade of pavement construction. The specimens were prepared using different proportions of
coal dust. Additives are mixed with soil at OMC because the water content adopted at the time of constructions usually
around OMC value. The modified soil specimens were subjected to Unconfined compressive strength (UCC) test and
California bearing ratio (CBR) test upon 3, 7& 21 days of curing. It was observed that the strength and CBR values of the
soil have been increased gradually till 20% of coal dust and no significant improvement thereafter. These values also have
been increased with increase in curing period.