Investigating the effect of reinforcing fine grained soils using shredded waste plastic

A. S. Chikasha, D. Kalumba, F. Okonta

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to investigate the effect of plastic inclusions on the shear strength of fine grained soils. Soil classification tests were performed prior to the direct shear test to determine physical properties. Relationships between angle of friction and the varying parameters; and cohesion and the varying parameters were deduced. It was graphically confirmed that at optimum conditions, the cohesion of fine grained soils increased by up to 100% while angle of friction showed a continuously decreasing trend by up to 50%. Based on the results obtained from the laboratory tests, it was concluded that the structural integrity of the fine grained soil, is ultimately reduced by inclusion of shredded plastics, as indicated by the decreasing shear strength and deteriorating slope stability. The minimum acceptable plastic contamination in fine grained soil backfill that would not induce greater than 10% reduction in properties (shear strength) was found to be 0.5%.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the 1st Southern African Geotechnical Conference, 2016
EditorsS.W. Jacobsz
PublisherCRC Press/Balkema
Pages347-350
Number of pages4
ISBN (Print)9781138029712
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2016
Event1st Southern African Geotechnical Conference, 2016 - Sun City, South Africa
Duration: 5 May 20166 May 2016

Publication series

NameProceedings of the 1st Southern African Geotechnical Conference, 2016

Conference

Conference1st Southern African Geotechnical Conference, 2016
Country/TerritorySouth Africa
CitySun City
Period5/05/166/05/16

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology

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