THE USE OF COMPACTED BORROW PIT MATERIALS FOR SUB BASE IN ROAD CONSTRUCTION

ABSTRACT This study investigates the use of compacted borrow pit materials as sub-base materials in road construction. The research focused on evaluating the suitability and performance of locally sourced materials through laboratory testing and analysis. Due to the high cost of construction materials, careful selection and collection of materials were carried out to ensure quality and cost effectiveness. The materials used for the study included coarse aggregate (granite) obtained from Ishiagu and fine aggregate (sand) collected within the campus environment. Standard laboratory test procedures were adopted throughout the study. Concrete specimens were prepared using a mix ratio of 1:2:4, while batching was carried out by weight to ensure accuracy and uniformity. Concrete cubes were cast and tested for compressive strength at curing ages of 7, 14, and 28 days. The relative weight of materials used for the cube casting was maintained at 36 kg. The results obtained from the tests were carefully calculated, analyzed, and tabulated. The findings revealed that properly compacted borrow pit materials can effectively serve as sub-base materials in road construction when adequate material selection, proportioning, and compaction procedures are followed. The study therefore concludes that the use of compacted borrow pit materials is economical, suitable, and recommended for road sub-base construction,