Effects of Leachate Contamination on Some Geotechnical Properties of Lateritic Soil

Abstract

This paper presents the geotechnical properties of artificially leachate-contaminated and uncontaminated soils in order to study the effects of the contaminant on the soils’ behavior when used for engineering purposes. 4 portions of lateritic soil samples were artificially contaminated with 5, 10 and 20% leachate and respective geotechnical properties were determined. Results showed that leachate contamination proportionally increased the Atterberg limits and permeability values for all contaminated soils, but decreases in compaction parameters. For compaction tests, maximum dry density decreased from 15.9kN/m³ in the control sample to 14.4kN/m³ in contaminated soil at 20% leachate concentration. The coefficient of permeability values increased with increase in leachate content. It was observed that addition of leachate has adverse reducing effects on the strength and hydraulic properties of the contaminated residual soil. Thus, use of leachate-contaminated soils in geotechnical engineering works should be avoided since it is inimical to life, money and properties.