Transforming Treacherous Terrains: Enhancing Black Cotton Soil Stability with Calcium Lignosulfonate and Marble Dust

Abstract

Black cotton soil poses significant challenges in development projects due to its high compressibility, swelling, and low bearing capacity. To address these issues, an innovative stabilizing agent known as calcium lignosulfonate has been introduced into the construction industry. This agent aims to enhance the strength and reliability of soils, thus facilitating the construction of buildings and roads. Consequently, a laboratory study is proposed to evaluate the effects of calcium lignosulfonate on various soil properties including Atterberg’s limit, standard proctor compaction test, unconfined compressive test. The study involves testing different proportions of calcium lignosulfonate, ranging from 2% to 8%, along with the incorporation of 15% marble dust. This investigation aims to determine the optimal combination of stabilizing agents for effectively improving soil characteristics and it was observed that the stabilization method using calcium lignosulfonate and marble dust offers a promising alternative that is efficient and cost-effective.