Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences

Year: 2007
Volume: 2
Issue: 7
Page No. 1169 - 1172

Engineering Geological Properties of Soil Subgrade of Ilawe-Ikere Ekiti Proposed Highway Alignment, Southwestern Nigeria

Authors : G. Jegede

Abstract: This study examines the engineering geological properties of the soil subgrade along, the proposed Ilawe-Ikere Ekiti highway alignment. Engineering geological mapping showed that thick mantle of soil along the proposed road alignment is underlain by older granite rock. Outcrops of the grayish, fine to coarse-grained granite were mapped in some localities in the area. Disturbed soil samples collected were subjected to several laboratory tests including clay mineralogy, natural moisture content, grain size, specific gravity, consistency limits, linear shrinkage, compaction and California bearing ratio tests. Petrographic analysis of thin section of older granite rock was carried out. XRD diffractograms revealed prominent Kaolinite peaks and subdued illite peaks, the natural soil moisture range from 2.0-2.8%, liquid limit from 36.0-43.0%, plastic limit from 15.8-20.5%, linear shrinkage from 2.10-2.60% and specific gravity from 2.66-2.74. The compaction characteristics of the soil indicated dry densities ranging from 1910-2050 kg m 3 at optimum moisture content of 15-18.2%. Petrographic study of the older granite thin section revealed the presence of biotite, amphibole, muscovite, quartz, pyroxene, plagioclase and opaque minerals in the rock. The engineering geological data obtained showed that the soil is good for all civil construction work including road subgrade.

How to cite this article:

G. Jegede , 2007. Engineering Geological Properties of Soil Subgrade of Ilawe-Ikere Ekiti Proposed Highway Alignment, Southwestern Nigeria . Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences, 2: 1169-1172.

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