SWELL MITIGATION IN EXPANSIVE SOILS USING MICRO PILES, GEOTEXTILES, AND BIO-ENZYMES: A PERFORMANCE STUDY

The effectiveness of Micropiles, geotextile reinforcement, and bio-enzyme treatment in controlling swelling of expansive soil was evaluated through laboratory investigations. The following key conclusions are drawn: ·                  Micropiles significantly reduce swelling, with a maximum reduction of approximately 79% observed for 20 mm diameter piles with sand providing frictional resistance. Heave reduction improves with increasing Micropiles diameter. ·                  Geotextile reinforcement effectively controls swelling, and its performance increases with the number of layers. A maximum reduction of about 73% was achieved using two layers placed at depths of 0.1B and 0.3B below the footing. ·                  Bio-enzyme treatment reduces swelling potential, with effectiveness increasing with higher dosage. A maximum reduction of approximately 42% was observed at a dosage of 200 ml/m³ of soil. ·                  Larger footing dimensions contribute to improved heave control, indicating better load distribution and resistance to swelling. ·                  Overall, Micropiles and geotextile reinforcement were found to be more effective compared to bio-enzyme treatment, although the latter offers a sustainable alternative for soil stabilization. ·                  Overall, the controlled incorporation of MP and RHA can lead to the development of eco-friendly, cost-effective bricks with acceptable strength and performance characteristics.

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