Sustainable ground improvement using lime-stabilized soils and recycled construction materials: A performance-based evaluation for urban development

Most urban infrastructure constructions are carried out on soils with low bearing capacity, as well as compressibility, which might result in settlement. Ground improvement techniques are therefore necessary to improve soil performance before construction. This study investigates a sustainable ground improvement approach that combines lime stabilization with recycled construction materials for infrastructure foundations and pavement subgrades. The research evaluates the engineering performance of stabilized soil mixtures prepared with different proportions of lime and recycled materials. Laboratory testing includes soil characterization, compaction testing, curing, and unconfined compressive strength evaluation. The performance of stabilized mixtures is compared with untreated soil using strength improvement ratios and conceptual settlement analysis. The findings show that the addition of lime to the soil alters its structure as a result of a chemical reaction with clay particles, which increases the stiffness of the soil. The inclusion of recycled construction materials introduces granular particles that improve load transfer and reduce deformation. Soil mixes incorporating both lime and recycled materials exhibit improved strength and reduced settlement compared to untreated soil as well as lime stabilized soil. The findings show that this method of soil stabilization is a viable solution to addressing poor soil conditions while at the same time helping to conserve natural resources, thus promoting sustainable urban infrastructure development.