Stabilization of Reinforced Earth Wall Backfill Using Steel Slag and Recycled PET Fiber: A Composite Material Approach

Year : 2025 | Volume : 13 | Issue : 05 | Page : 110 127
    By

    Raj Joshi,

  • Karan Babbar,

  1. M. Tech Student, Department of Civil Engineering, Quantum University, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, India
  2. Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Quantum University, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, India

Abstract

Reinforced Earth (RE) walls are widely used in infrastructure due to their structural efficiency and ease of construction. However, they typically require high-quality granular backfill, which may not be readily available or cost-effective in many regions. This study investigates the potential of utilizing locally available sandy clay soil stabilized with industrial and plastic waste materials specifically 20% steel slag and 0.75% shredded polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fibers, as an alternative backfill for reinforced Earth (RE) walls. A comprehensive laboratory testing program was conducted to evaluate the geotechnical properties of the stabilized soil. Results showed substantial improvements in mechanical behavior: unconfined compressive strength increased to 440 kPa, California Bearing Ratio (CBR) rose from 4% to 16%, and plasticity index was reduced to non-plastic, indicating enhanced strength, stiffness, and workability.To validate the laboratory findings, a full-scale 6-meter-high RE wall was constructed using the optimized soil mix. Field monitoring over time recorded minimal vertical settlement (~7 mm) and very low lateral deflection (~3 mm), confirming the structural integrity and stability of the wall. The performance met the design requirements in accordance with Indian Roads Congress (IRC) specifications.This study demonstrates that the proposed soil-steel slag- polyethylene terephthalate fiber composite is a technically viable and sustainable alternative backfill material for RE wall applications. In addition to providing satisfactory engineering performance, it promotes the reuse of industrial by-products and plastic waste, offering both environmental and economic benefits. The findings support the use of such composites in future infrastructure projects to foster more sustainable construction practices.

Keywords: PET fiber, slag stabilization, composite material, reinforced soil, polymer reinforcement, RE wall backfill.

[This article belongs to Journal of Polymer and Composites ]

How to cite this article:
Raj Joshi, Karan Babbar. Stabilization of Reinforced Earth Wall Backfill Using Steel Slag and Recycled PET Fiber: A Composite Material Approach. Journal of Polymer and Composites. 2025; 13(05):110-127.
How to cite this URL:
Raj Joshi, Karan Babbar. Stabilization of Reinforced Earth Wall Backfill Using Steel Slag and Recycled PET Fiber: A Composite Material Approach. Journal of Polymer and Composites. 2025; 13(05):110-127. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jopc/article=2025/view=222914


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Regular Issue Subscription Original Research
Volume 13
Issue 05
Received 12/06/2025
Accepted 04/07/2025
Published 22/07/2025
Publication Time 40 Days
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