Enhancing Strength of Expansive Soil Stabilized with Fly Ash: Investigating the Effects of Calcium Chloride and Waste Tyre Rubber

— This study aims to investigate the impact of fly ash, calcium chloride, and curing period on the index properties of problematic expansive soil. The objective is to identify effective techniques to mitigate the challenges posed by expansive soil and propose suitable methodologies based on a critical review of existing literature. Laboratory experimentation is conducted to examine the influence of proposed additives and admixtures on the properties of expansive soils. The performance of the stabilized expansive soil with the suggested additives and admixtures is evaluated, considering its suitability as fill material and subgrade material. Additionally, the suitability and potential adoption of Waste Tyre Rubber (WTR) as discrete reinforcement are investigated. The experimental soil utilized in this study is a representative black cotton soil collected from the Kothapeta region near Amalapuram, in the East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh, India. The soil properties are determined in accordance with the relevant Indian Standard (IS) specifications. By examining the impact of various materials and curing periods on the expansive soil properties, this research seeks to contribute to the development of effective strategies for soil stabilization. The findings of this study will provide valuable insights into improving the engineering characteristics of expansive soils and selecting appropriate techniques for their sustainable management.