Assessment of Niger Delta Lateritic Soil Mixed with Bentonite as A Landfill Barrier

This research examines the geotechnical properties of laterite-bentonite blends through a series of tests, including specific gravity, sieve analysis, Atterberg limits, maximum dry density, optimum water content, and permeability. Specific gravity testing reveals an average value of 2.5472, indicating moderate density. Sieve analysis demonstrates that the soil particles fall within the range of silt and sandy soils. Atterberg limits classify the soil as having intermediate plasticity, with a liquid limit of 22.00, plastic limit of 14.29, and plastic index of 7.71. Maximum dry density and optimum water content tests reveal varying trends, highlighting the intricate interaction between laterite and bentonite. The maximum dry density is observed at a mix ratio of 30% bentonite, with a value of 2.1 g/cm3, while the optimum water content occurs at a mix ratio of 20% bentonite, with a value of 20.25. Permeability testing indicates an inverse relationship between bentonite content and permeability, with permeability decreasing from 0.00004 at 0% bentonite to 0.000015 at a 35% bentonite mix ratio, suggesting potential applications in scenarios requiring low permeability. The findings offer valuable insights for engineering assessments and customized soil mixtures in construction and environmental engineering projects.