Shear Strength Characteristics of Coal Dust Mixed Pilani Soil

Abstract

Cooking coal dust has the potential to replace traditional admixtures used to improve soil properties. The low cost of this coal dust is an added benefit as it can be used either alone or in combination with regular admixtures in the construction of foundations, embankments, retaining walls etc. The aim of this paper is to determine the shearing strength parameters of Pilani soil mixed with varying coal dust amount. The experimental values will give us a better understanding of the range of coal dust usage in construction. Disposal of the huge amount of produced coal dust poses a potentially serious environmental threat due to paucity of land for disposal. Therefore, using coal dust in construction can, in addition to reducing expenditures, will also solve the headache of its safe disposal and help in preventing environmental degradation. Direct shear testing was conducted at in-situ water content & at OMC conditions.