Stabilization of Soft Soil Using Nanomaterials
Zaid Hameed Majeed, Mohd Raihan Taha and Ibtehaj Taha Jawad
Department of Civil and Structural Engineering, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia,
43600 UKM, Bangi Selangor, Malaysia
Abstract: Tests were conducted to investigate the influence of using nanomaterials in the modification and
stabilization of soft soil. The soft soils were collected from two sites and treated with three nanomaterial types
(nano-copper, nano-clay and nano-magnesium). Nanomaterials were added in small amount (?1.0%) by dry weight
of the soil. Laboratory tests to determine the Atterberg limits, linear shrinkage, compaction characteristics and
unconfined compressive strength were performed. Results of the investigation showed significant improvement in
maximum dry density, plasticity index, linear shrinkage and unconfined compressive strength. The improvement is
dependent on the type of nanomaterials. The unconfined compressive strength and maximum dry density increased
as the nanomaterials content increased until reach a percentage after which the strength will be decrease. Thus, the
addition of finer particles such as nanomaterials, even at low doses, could enhance the properties of soil.
Keywords: Consistency limit, nanomaterials, soft soil, soil stabilization, unconfined compressive strength