Preparation of scrap tire rubber fiber–silica fume mixtures for modification of clayey soils

Abstract This experimental work was performed to investigate the influence of silica fume–scrap tire rubber fiber mixture inclusion on the geotechnical properties of clayey soils. The natural and modified clayey soil samples were subjected to the unconfined compression, the shear box, the odometer and the falling-head permeability tests after compaction at optimum moisture content. The results of experimental research indicated that silica fume, fiber and silica fume–fiber mixture modification enhanced both the unconfined compression strength and strength parameters. Although, the fiber modification increased in the hydraulic conductivity, it decreased in the swelling pressure. It was observed also that the silica fume and silica fume–fiber modification decreased both the hydraulic conductivity and swelling pressure. Consequently, it is concluded that the silica fume–fiber mixture materials can be successfully used for the modifications of clayey soils in the geotechnical applications.