Experimental Study on the Behavior of Two Expansive Soils Reinforced with Jute Fibers: Effects of Fiber Length and Content

¹ Civil and Environmental Engineering Laboratory (LGCE), Mohammadia Engineering School, Mohammed V University in Rabat, Morocco
² Laboratory of Applied Geophysics, Geotechnics, Engineering Geology, and Environment (L3GIE), Mohammadia Engineering School, Mohammed V University in Rabat, Morocco

^* Corresponding author: ahlam.elmajid@research.emi.ac.ma

Abstract

Swelling characteristics of expansive soils are considered to be challenging in materials science and may cause severe damage to buildings. Conventional methods for stabilizing soil with lime, cement or sand are effective but not economical and sustainable in all cases. This study investigated jute fiber type and natural origin effects with respect to jute content on swelling potential of the expansive soil. A laboratory investigation conducted by an experimental study was carried out on the effect of fiber length and content on soil behaviour for CBR. It was observed that the swelling potential reduces with increasing fiber length and content. The greatest reduction in swelling was found at 1.8% fiber content, and the longest fibers were also the most efficient in heave control. The results indicate the enhancement of soil stabilisation with the jute as binding material which is due to its developing interconnected strengthening matrix synergized with restraint swelling. Although increasing fiber dosage is beneficial to performance. These are very practical guidelines for the optimization of fiber-reinforced soil mix design before construction, Promoting infrastructure that can withstand disasters is crucial. The approach fits with global efforts for environmentally friendly materials while ensuring cost-effectiveness and sustainable development.