EFFECT OF GUM ARABIC BIOPOLYMER ON THE ATTERBERG LIMIT AND CATION EXCHANGE CAPACITY OF LEAD- CONTAMINATED LATERITIC SOIL

Abstract

Laboratory tests and regression analysis were used to assess the liquid limit, plastic limit, and plasticity index, as well as cation-exchange capacity (CEC) of the contaminated lateritic soil treated with up to 25% Gum Arabic biopolymer (GAB). Tests conducted on the soil sample include specific gravity, Atterberg limit, particle size distribution, and cation exchange capacity (CEC). The findings indicate a rise in cation-exchange capacity up to 25% GAB content, while the liquid limit, plastic limit, and plasticity of the lead-contaminated soil decreased with an increase of up to 10% GAB content. However, regression analysis of test results shows a strong correlation between the experimental and predicted values. The consistency indices for use as a subgrade material on lightly traveled roads were improved by a 10% GAB content blend with contaminated lateritic soil.