Research Article
Effect of Neem Seed Ash on the Geotechnical Properties of Lateritic Soil
Tijanee Sharifdeen Adebayo*
,
Abdulrauf Kabir
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 6, December 2025
Pages:
207-215
Received:
11 October 2025
Accepted:
21 October 2025
Published:
5 November 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.jccee.20251006.11
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Abstract: The impact of Neem Seed Ash (NSA) on the geotechnical properties of three clay soil samples classified as MH and CH by the Unified Soil Classification System is investigated in this study. The results of preliminary testing indicated moderate plasticity and load-bearing capacity, with natural moisture levels ranging from 7.2% to 9.38%, specific gravities from 2.66 to 2.75, and California Bearing Ratio (CBR) values from 13.42% to 19.8%. According to ASTM C618’s Class C classification, NSA's pozzolanic content of 52.01% was determined by chemical analysis. The engineering properties of the soils were significantly improved by NSA integration. As the NSA content rose, the specific gravity decreased, demonstrating the admixture's decreased density. Indicating improved soil workability and decreased plasticity, Atterberg limits showed a significant decline: liquid limits decreased from 37% to 12%, plastic limits from 27% to 11%, and the plasticity index from 14% to 2%. The maximum dry density increased to 2.37 g/cm3 at 6% NSA substitution, according to compaction tests, and the optimal moisture content decreased from 16% to 9.6%, indicating increased compaction efficiency. With 8% NSA replacement, the CBR values increased dramatically, reaching 44.1%, indicating a notable improvement in strength. These findings confirm that NSA is an effective stabilizing agent for difficult clay soils, enhancing their mechanical properties and potentially reducing environmental impacts and building costs. The study supports the use of NSA as an economical and environmentally friendly additive for stabilizing geotechnical soil.
Abstract: The impact of Neem Seed Ash (NSA) on the geotechnical properties of three clay soil samples classified as MH and CH by the Unified Soil Classification System is investigated in this study. The results of preliminary testing indicated moderate plasticity and load-bearing capacity, with natural moisture levels ranging from 7.2% to 9.38%, specific gra...
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Research Article
Mechanical Behaviour and Sound Intensity Characteristics of Compressed Earth Blocks Reinforced with Powdered Pozzolan and Cocoa Pod Husk Ash
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 6, December 2025
Pages:
216-229
Received:
23 September 2025
Accepted:
4 October 2025
Published:
12 November 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.jccee.20251006.12
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: The construction industry in developing countries increasingly seeks sustainable, low-cost, and acoustically efficient building materials. Compressed Earth Blocks (CEBs) are widely recognized as an environmentally friendly alternative; however, their limited mechanical strength and poor sound insulation restrict broader adoption. This study explores the potential of enhancing CEB performance through natural stabilizers that is powdered pozzolan and cocoa pod husk ash (CPHA). The research aimed to address two critical questions: (i) how the combined use of these additives influences the mechanical behaviour of CEBs, and (ii) whether they can improve acoustic insulation properties. Experimental CEB samples were prepared with varying proportions of pozzolan (0-20%) and CPHA (0-10%). Mechanical tests, including compressive and flexural strength, were conducted, alongside assessments of acoustic performance. The results demonstrated that incorporating 10% pozzolan with 10% CPHA significantly enhanced compressive strength and ductility, achieving 0.215 MPa compared to 0.121 MPa for the control. Flexural strength improved markedly in blocks containing 20% pozzolan and 10% CPHA, reaching 0.156 MPa, more than double the control value. Acoustic evaluation revealed that blocks with 5% pozzolan and 10% CPHA reduced sound transmission by over 16 dB relative to the control, highlighting their potential in improving indoor comfort. Overall, the findings confirm that the synergistic use of pozzolan and CPHA not only mitigates the mechanical shortcomings of traditional CEBs but also provides significant acoustic benefits. This study contributes to the knowledge base on sustainable construction materials and demonstrates a practical pathway for developing eco-friendly, affordable, and higher-performing housing solutions in resource-constrained contexts.
Abstract: The construction industry in developing countries increasingly seeks sustainable, low-cost, and acoustically efficient building materials. Compressed Earth Blocks (CEBs) are widely recognized as an environmentally friendly alternative; however, their limited mechanical strength and poor sound insulation restrict broader adoption. This study explore...
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