Comparison of Method of Stabilization of Laterite Using Sharp Sand and Quarry Dust

Due to its high plasticity, poor compressive strength, and moisture vulnerability, laterite soil—which is frequently found in tropical areas like Nigeria—is widely available but has limited use as a building material. Therefore, it is crucial to stabilize laterite soil in order to increase its longevity, load-bearing capability, and resilience to environmental factors. The usefulness of two substitute stabilization materials—quarry dust and sharp sand—as reasonably priced, locally available stabilizing agents for laterite is examined and contrasted in this study. While quarry dust, a by-product of crushing stone, is predicted to increase compressive strength and decrease plasticity because of its finer particles and higher filling capacity, sharp sand, with its coarse, angular particles, is thought to improve the soil's compaction characteristics and bulk density. The effects of each stabilizer on laterite properties at different mix proportions were evaluated using a battery of tests, including Compaction, California Bearing Ratio (CBR), and Atterberg limits. The stability and strength of laterite soil are found to be positively impacted, albeit to varying degrees, by both sharp sand and quarry dust. While quarry dust greatly increases compressive strength and decreases plasticity, making it more suitable for load-bearing applications, sharp sand improves compaction and workability, making it appropriate for general fill applications. According to the results, sharp sand provides an affordable option for projects with moderate strength requirements, whereas quarry dust would be better for high-strength requirements. This work contributes to the production of affordable, sustainable building materials in tropical areas by offering insightful information about the relative advantages of employing quarry dust and sharp sand for laterite stabilization.