An investigation on stabilization of laterite soil using coconut coir fibres

Abstract Laterite soils are highly permeable and make the foundation unsuitable construction. Foundation is a significant structural element which play a key role in safety and stability of structure and it has to be strong enough to support the overlying and underlying structures. This research focuses on stabilizing the laterite soil adding coconut coirs fibres at varying percentages viz., 0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1%, which are extracted from coconuts serving as natural fibre for stabilization of soil. The tests such as liquid limit, plastic limit, plasticity index, optimum moisture content, maximum dry density, unconfined compressive strength, and soaked & unsoaked California Bearing Ratio tests were conducted on soil specimens made with varying percentages of coconut coir. It was noted that at 0% addition of coconut coir fibre maximum liquid and plastic limits were obtained and with every increase in the coir content the plasticity index, unconfined compressive strength and California Bearing Ratio strengths were increased. On the other hand, the dry density of all the specimens showed almost equal range of density content and the moisture content was decreased with increase in the coconut coir content. Overall, it was found that stabilization of laterite soil using coconut coir as natural fibres is a cost-effective and eco-friendly approach to improve the properties of soil.