Optimizing the geotechnical characteristics of silty soil using waste glass
Duaa Muhsin1 and Hussain Rasheed1
Department of Civil Techniques/Building and Construction,Shatrah Technical Institute, Southern Technical University, Thi Qar,Iraq1
Corresponding Author : Duaa Muhsin
Recieved : 06-December-2024; Revised : 12-June-2025; Accepted : 16-June-2025
Abstract
The conventional methods of soil improvement, such as soil replacement and chemical treatment, are commonly employed to enhance poor soil properties for construction purposes. However, these methods are often expensive and pose adverse environmental impacts. The use of waste materials, such as crushed glass, as a soil stabilizer presents a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative due to its low cost and wide availability. This study investigates the effects of incorporating crushed waste glass on the engineering behavior of low-plasticity silty soil. Crushed glass was added in proportions of 7%, 14%, and 21% by dry weight of the soil. To assess the changes in soil properties, both the chemical compositions of the soil and glass were analyzed, along with physical tests (gradation, consistency limits, and specific gravity) and mechanical strength evaluations (Proctor compaction and Unconfined Compressive Strength [UCS]) conducted in accordance with American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. The results indicated that the progressive addition of crushed glass reduced the specific gravity of the soil. A decrease in the liquid limit (LL), plastic limit (PL), and plasticity index (PI) was also observed. The maximum dry density (MDD) increased with the addition of crushed glass, while the optimum moisture content (OMC) decreased as the glass content increased. The soil's strength improved significantly with the addition of 7% crushed glass; however, higher dosages led to a reduction in UCS values. Overall, the incorporation of waste glass not only improves certain geotechnical properties of silty soil but also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing glass waste.
Keywords
Soil stabilization, Crushed waste glass, Silty soil, Geotechnical properties, Unconfined compressive strength, Environmental sustainability.
Cite this article
Muhsin D, Rasheed H. Optimizing the geotechnical characteristics of silty soil using waste glass. International Journal of Advanced Technology and Engineering Exploration. 2025;12(127):868-881. DOI : 10.19101/IJATEE.2024.111102164
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