The Effects of Using Nanomaterials to Improvement Soft Soils
Zaid Hameed Majeed1*, Mohd Raihan Taha2
1Lecture, Department of civil engineering, college of Engineering, University of Babylon, Babil, Iraq
2Professor & Director, Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI),Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600
UKM Bangi, Selangor, MALAYSIA, and Professor, Dept of Civil & Structural Engineering, Universiti Kebangsaan
Malaysia, 43600 UKM Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
*Corresponding Author:
Zaid Hameed Majeed
Email: zaidalhaswan@yahoo.com
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 different sites and treated with three nanomaterials (nano-copper,
nano-alumina, and nano-magnesium). Nanomaterials were added in small amount (? 1.0%) by dry weight of the soil.
Laboratory tests to determine the compaction characteristics and unconfined compressive strength were performed.
Results of the investigation showed significant improvement in maximum dry density, 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. Nanomaterial contents in excess of the optimum content cause agglomeration of particles that adversely
affects the mechanical properties of the soils. In general, the addition of finer particles such as nanomaterials, even at low
doses, could enhance the geotechnical properties of soil. Also considering the possible negative environmental effects of
chemical addition to soils, the possibilities of using nanomaterials as stabilizing agents of soft soils this combined
admixture is intended to reduce the cost and promote a more environment-friendly and sustainable stabilizing agent.
Keywords: Soil stabilization, soft soil, nanomaterials, unconfined compressive strength, SEM.