Geochemistry and Geotechnical Analysis of Lateritic Soils in the Anambra Basin

Enaworu, E. and Ugbe, F.C. and Rotimi, Oluwatosin J. and Ameloko, A. (2017) Geochemistry and Geotechnical Analysis of Lateritic Soils in the Anambra Basin. Electronic Journal of Geotechnical Engineering, 22 (11). pp. 4395-4413. ISSN 1089-3032

PDF Download (614kB)

Abstract

In addition to previous work done by Enaworu et al., (2016) on the geochemical and geotechnical (compaction) analysis of lateritic soils located at Okpanam area in the Anambra Basin, this paper presents further work done on lateritic soils at a different location (Azagba – Ogwashi area). The major elements geochemistry and compaction characteristics of lateritic soils in Azagba – Ogwashi area, located in the Anambra Basin were investigated. This was with a view to ascertain their silica-sesquioxide ratio in order to classify them into lateritic soils and assessing the suitability of these lateritic soils as highway sub-base and sub-grade construction materials. Bulk samples of soil were collected from two separate horizons – A and B at depths of 1.08m and 3.42m respectively from an outcrop. The major elements geochemical analysis was carried out by means of Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS). The geotechnical (compaction) analysis, was executed by following the modified American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) test (T-180). The amount of total irons in terms of iron III oxide ranged from 6.75% - 8.91% in depths 1.08m and 3.42 respectively. Silica-sesquioxide of iron and aluminum molar ratios at depths of 1.08m and 342m were between 1.77 and 1.64 respectively. Compaction characteristics values for this area varied with sampling depth, at a Maximum Dry Density (MDD) range of 1.86g/cm3 to 1.91g/cm3 and an Optimum Moisture Content (OMC) range of 16.0% to 14.5% for depths 1.08m and 3.42 respectively. With these values, the soils can be compacted at specific optimum moisture contents thereby ensuring the subsequent use of these soils as sub-grade and sub-base highway construction materials.

Item Type:	Article
Subjects:	Q Science > QE Geology T Technology > TA Engineering (General). Civil engineering (General) T Technology > TE Highway engineering. Roads and pavements
Divisions:	Faculty of Engineering, Science and Mathematics > School of Engineering Sciences
Depositing User:	Mr. Efeoghene Enaworu
Date Deposited:	06 Sep 2017 10:36
Last Modified:	20 Nov 2017 09:16
URI:	http://eprints.covenantuniversity.edu.ng/id/eprint/9111

Actions (login required)

View Item