Mechanical, microstructural, and environmental performance of industrial byproducts in peat reinforcement

Peat is widely regarded as one of the most challenging soil types due to its unfavorable engineering characteristics. Traditional methods for addressing peat-related challenges often involve costly and unsustainable approaches such as soil replacement or chemical treatment with cement. This study aims to introduce novel insights into a sustainable solution for peat stabilization by utilizing industrial waste, thereby promoting sustainable development. Palm oil fuel ash (POFA) is a prevalent industrial byproduct generated in Southeast Asian countries, presenting significant disposal challenges. This research evaluates the performance of POFA as a green binder for peat stabilization through a series of mechanical, microstructural, and environmental tests. The findings demonstrate that POFA serves as an environmentally sound and effective binder, substantially improving the engineering properties of peat while also immobilizing toxic elements within the stabilized peat matrix. Consequently, this environmentally friendly and sustainable approach enhances the poor engineering properties of peat. • High pH and silica content encourage palm oil fuel ash as a potential peat binder. • Palm oil fuel ash significantly improved the peat engineering characteristics. • Microstructural tests confirmed dense peat matrix formation with palm oil fuel ash. • pH test showed enhanced alkalinity in treated peat, supporting pozzolanic reaction. • Leachate studies confirmed palm oil fuel ash as a safe industrial binder for peat.