Effect of Macro, Micro, and Nano Lime Particles on the Stabilisation of Expansive Soils

Abstract

This paper explores the potential of lime to mitigate the shrinkage and expansion properties of expansive soils through plasticity index (PI) testing. Expansive soils are prone to significant volume changes due to moisture fluctuations, which can substantially damage building structures. A series of experiments were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of lime in these soils, focusing on three distinct particle sizes: macro, micro, and nano. The research examined the impact of varying lime concentrations—1%, 2%, and 3% by weight of soil—on these different soil types. The findings suggest that finer lime particle sizes are more effective in reducing the initial void ratio of the soil, thereby enhancing its bearing capacity. The interaction between smaller lime particles and the soil matrix promotes improved bonding within the treated soil mass, reducing the likelihood of cracking. Overall, this study highlights the significant role of lime particle size in enhancing soil stability and strength.