Geotechnical Evaluation of Some Selected Clay Samples Southwestern Nigeria: Implications for Industrial Use

Clay soils pose significant challenges in geotechnical engineering due to their complex behaviour, which is very sensitive to moisture changes and environmental conditions; understanding their properties makes it easier to determine their areas of application. This paper provides a comprehensive review of clay evaluation by integrating its physical, microstructural and engineering classifications. Four clay samples taken from Ajase-Ipo and Isan-Ekiti in Southwestern Nigeria were subjected to geotechnical tests; parameters assessed include particle size distribution, Atterberg limits, porosity, and water absorption. The grain size analysis classified the samples as fine-grained, which was confirmed by the Atterberg limit test, which recorded the plastic limit to be in the range of 19.8% to 28.0% and a high plastic index of 27.3% to 30.6%, indicating high swelling capacity. The physical properties of the four samples show standard engineering classifications. It was concluded that the four clay samples are suitable raw materials in manufacturing industries and not very suitable for use in construction.