The use of soil-cement to improve the strength and stability of soil

Ifeanyi, Ogunjiofor Emmanuel and Tochukwu, Unachu Daniel and Sunday, Okeke Cosmas (2025) The use of soil-cement to improve the strength and stability of soil. World Journal of Advanced Engineering Technology and Sciences, 15 (2). pp. 2227-2237. ISSN 2582-8266

This study examines the particle size distribution, workability, and compressive strength of concrete mixes containing laterite soil and fine aggregate. Compressive strength tests conducted at 7, 14, 21, and 28 days revealed that fine aggregate exhibited superior strength development compared to laterite soil. Concrete with fine aggregate achieved compressive strengths of 22.55 N/mm², 23.65 N/mm², 26.80 N/mm², and 30.00 N/mm² at 7, 14, 21, and 28 days respectively. In contrast, laterite soil mixes recorded 17.50 N/mm², 12.45 N/mm², 15.80 N/mm², and 17.65 N/mm² over the same periods, indicating slower and less consistent strength gain. Slump test results showed that fine aggregate mixes were more workable and cohesive than those made with laterite soil. Sieve analysis further revealed that fine aggregate had a well-graded particle size distribution, enhancing compactness and structural stability, whereas laterite soil was coarser and less uniform. Based on the results, fine aggregate is recommended for structural concrete applications requiring high early and long-term strength, while laterite soil is better suited for non-structural or low-load-bearing uses.