An Overview on Innovative Approaches for Soil Stabilization

Soil stabilization forms one of the main solutions to the weak soil strength or stability, especially as it occurs during construction and development of infrastructures in the focus of geotechnical engineering. There are Fourier conventional stabilization methods that often take advantage of using chemical additives, which may be quite costly and damaging to the ecosystem. Studies indicate that waste plastic after treatment or after recycling can be used in construction as in a variety of forms. However, the same is not the case with regard to its use in soil stabilization or more particularly, in soil stabilization. The current research thus conducts a systematic review of waste plastic as a new material in soil stabilization, its advantages, shortcomings, and general viability concerning geotechnical practice. In the current review, the scholarly literature of well-established periodicals about both the historical breakthroughs and latest advancements was questioned. The focus of the study was to incorporate so-called sustainable materials i.e., plastic fibers, and wood dust into soil-based matrices to obtain improved mechanical performance. Laboratory experiments, including Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS), Direct Shear Tests, and Proctor Compaction Tests, were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of these materials. Results indicated significant improvements in strength and cohesion, suggesting their potential as eco-friendly alternatives for soil stabilization.