Lateritic Soil Improvement Using Lime and MOFIC

This study investigates the effects of mucilage from Opuntia ficus-indica cladode (MOFIC), a bio-modifier, on Lime-stabilized Lateritic soil's durability and index features. Specifically, this research assessed the alterations to the Atterberg limits, compaction characteristics, California bearing ratio (CBR), index values and the unconfined compressive strength (UCS) properties of the soil samples and the stabilised samples through laboratory experiments. Lime + MOFIC was added to the soil at 0%, 2%, 4%, 8%, 12% and 16% wt (%) of soil. The result confirms alteration in the index and strength characteristics of the soil upon the addition of MOFIC to the Lime-treated Lateritic soil. The geotechnical characteristics of the soil improved from a subgrade soil to a subbase material upon the addition of 2% of LIME + MOFIC; with the presence of Lime + MOFIC at 2–4%, the bearing capacity of the soil improved from a subgrade material to a subbase material according to the Nigerian General Specification. The highest CBR value in Lime-stabilised was 56%, while the CBR value of Lime + MOFIC-stabilised soil was 70%. This represents a 20% increment in CBR. The presence of polysaccharides in MOFIC enhanced the soil binding attributes of the Lime and hence accelerated the strength properties of the soil. The promotion of green construction and reduction in environmental impacts of using Lime motivates the use of MOFIC in the study. Based on the result of the experimental research, MOFIC is thereby recommended as an eco-friendly alternative for enhancing engineering properties of pavements interlayers. The addition of MOFIC improved the index and strength properties of pavement interlayer material in road construction.