To Study the Impact of Chloride Compounds on the Characteristics of Clay Soil

This study investigates the impact of chloride compounds (CaCl2, MgCl2 and NaCl) on clay soil, aiming to provide valuable insights into the behavior and potential consequences of introducing chloride-based materials into clay-rich soil. Clay soils are prevalent in various regions worldwide and are known for their unique properties, including high plasticity and low permeability. Understanding how chloride compounds interact with clay soils is crucial for numerous fields, including geotechnical engineering, environmental science, and agriculture. The research involved laboratory experiments on clay soil samples added with varying concentrations (1%, 3%, and 5%) of chloride compounds (CaCl₂, MgCl₂, NaCl). Tests assessed physical and chemical changes in the soil, including consistency limits, optimum moisture content, maximum dry density, and unconfined compressive strength. Results showed that increasing chloride concentration led to a decrease in liquid limit, plastic limit, plasticity index, and optimum moisture content. Conversely, maximum dry density and unconfined compressive strength increased. Where, CaCl₂ consistently produced the greatest improvement in strength and reduction in plasticity, while NaCl had the mildest effect. These findings are relevant for both soil stabilization practices and understanding the environmental impact of saline intrusion.