Effect Of Rice Husk Ash On The Plasticity Characteristics Of Jamshoro Shale

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of rice husk ash (RHA) on the plasticity characteristics of Jamshoro shale. Shale samples were treated with RHA at 0%, 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, 10%, and 12% by weight, and Atterberg limits were determined for each blend. Results showed that the Liquid Limit decreased progressively from 51% at 0% RHA to 43% at 12% RHA, while the Plastic Limit increased from 29% to 37% over the same range. Consequently, the Plasticity Index decreased markedly from 22% at 0% RHA to 6% at 12% RHA, representing a reduction of approximately 73%. These findings indicate that RHA treatment substantially reduces the plasticity of Jamshoro shale, likely due to cation exchange and flocculation-agglomeration reactions between the shale particles and the pozzolanic RHA, improving the soil's suitability for use in geotechnical applications such as subgrade and embankment construction.