GEOTECHNICAL PROPERTIES OF LATERITIC SOIL IN NSIT IBOM LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA (CASE STUDY OF EDEBOM), AKWA IBOM STATE

The research demonstrates the geotechnical properties of lateritic soil of Edebom, Nsit Ibom L.G.A and their various engineering applications for road construction. A series of geotechnical laboratory test on lateritic soil of Edebom were conducted. Two soil samples at depths of 2.5m to 5.0m were collected from four region laterally. The purpose of this project research was to examine laterite soils from borrow pits to be used as a sub grade and sub base material for engineering work. Particle size distribution test results shows that particles passing sieve no.200µ range between 22.82% for sample ref.1, and 18.24% for sample ref.2. Hence, the soils fall between A-2-5 and A-2-6 of AASHTO classification scheme. Atterberg limit test results shows that the plastic limits (PL) ranges between 16.17% and 18.5% for sample Ref 1 and 2 respectively. Liquid limit (LL) flow curve is at 26% for sample Ref. 1 and 34% for sample Ref. 2. The Plasticity Index (LL-PL) ranges from 9.83% and 15.5% for sample Ref 1 and 2. Hence, the soils are in their plastic range. Average Maximum Dry Density and optimum moisture for sample Ref.1 content were 1.97g/cm3 and 10.0%, respectively and Sample Ref 2 ranges 2.0g/cm3 and 10.0% respectively at 25 to 27 blows of the modified proctor. The result evaluated the suitability of soils according AASHTO classification system. Samples are been classified as clayey silty sand. Hence, the borrow pit materials have met the general requirements for use as sub-grade and sub-base coarse materia