Stabilization of Montmorillonite-Rich Bentonite Clay Using Neem Leaves Ash

The usage of pozzolanic material as a soil stabilizing agent is a well-established technique in the geotechnical engineering field. The main objective of this paper is to explore the possible usage of neem leaves ash as pozzolana and a stabilizing agent for the montmorillonite-rich bentonite clay (swelling soil). Any material that contains a significant amount of SiO 2 , Al 2 O 3, and Fe 2 O 3 is considered as a pozzolanic material. A varying amount of neem leaves ash (2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, and 10%) was added to the soil and the modified consistency limits, compressive strength, compaction, and consolidation characteristics due to the addition of neem leaves ash were evaluated. Based on the study, it is concluded that the neem leaves ash is an effective stabilizer, as it decreased the plasticity and increased the coefficient of consolidation. From the experimental results, it is inferred that the treated soil behaved as good foundation material, as the strength, swelling, and compressibility characteristics were improved to a significant extent. Overall, the results support the suitability of neem leaves ash as an effective stabilizer for expansive soil stabilization.