Stability Analysis of Cement and Residue from Spent Calcium-Carbide Stabilized Cohesive Soil

The stability characteristics of cohesive soil blended with Portland Limestone Cement (PLC) and Residue from Spent Calcium-carbide (RSCC) was investigated in Amalem Community, Abua, Rivers State, Nigeria. Remolded soil samples obtained at depth of 1-2 meters were mixed with PLC and RSCC and subsequently subjected to Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS). The cohesive soil was mixed with 3%, 4%, 5% and 6% PLC content by weight of the soil and for each percentage of PLC content, 7%, 9%, 11%, 13% and 15% RSCC by weight of the soil was subsequently added. Results showed that stabilization of the soil with PLC and RSCC increased its Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) and bearing capacity. However, addition of more than 5% PLC and 13% RSCC caused a decrease in the UCS and bearing capacity of the sample. From the above results, the most suitable mixed proportion of PLC and RSCC with cohesive soils was 3% PLC and 15% RSCC to satisfy Stability requirements. Based on the test results, PLC and RSCC blended binds suitably for the stabilization of cohesive soils.