EFFECT OF SUGARCANE BAGASSE FIBER AND LIME ON THE SHRINKAGE BEHAVIOR OF SOFT SOIL

This study evaluates the shrinkage behavior of high-water-content soft soil stabilised with lime and sugarcane bagasse fibre (SBF). Soft soil samples were treated with a uniform lime content of 10% and varying SBF proportions (0%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2% by dry weight) and cured 28 days as the ongoing studies. Linear shrinkage tests were conducted under controlled drying conditions to investigate the effects of lime and SBF on soil shrinkage characteristics. Results reveal that lime significantly reduced shrinkage by stabilizing the soft soil matrix, while SBF further enhanced shrinkage resistance by disrupting soil particle alignment and interlocking within the matrix. Optimal performance was observed at 1.5% SBF content, where shrinkage was reduced by 38% compared to untreated soil. These findings provide insights into sustainable approaches for improving shrinkage behavior in soft soils. Keywords: Sugarcane Bagasse Fibre, Lime Stabilisation, Shrinkage Behavior, Soft Soil, Sustainable Geotechnics