Geotechnical Evaluation of Municipal Solid Waste as an Alternative Material for Land Filling

An experimental study is reported to determine the geotechnical properties of lateritic soil-stabilized municipal solid waste (MSW) bottom sediment from active dumping sites in Kano metropolis in Nigeria. The study focuses on evaluating the MSW bottom sediment for possible reuse. The bottom sediment of MSW has indicated several characteristics such as light specific gravity and it is a well- graded sandy material (A-3 Grade) that can be compacted to a maximum dry density (MDD) similar to that of natural soil. Moreover, the sediment is fairly stable and durable at mix proportions of 0% to 40% lateritic soil. The frictional angle ϕ ranges from 33 o to 38 o . The CBR value is up to 12, meeting the Nigerian standard specifications for roads and bridges. These sediments can be used as a landfill material and also as a substitute aggregate in paving application for low cost roads.