EVALUATION OF THE USE OF PET BOTTLE FIBERS AS COMPACTED LATERITIC SOIL REINFORCEMENT

Abstract

With the accelerated growth in infrastructure works, the increase in industrial activities and the constant generation of waste, it is necessary to develop sustainable practices to minimize impacts on the environment. From the combination of these factors, an interesting perspective arises for the use of alternative materials for landfill in geotechnical works, paying attention to the reduction of the impact caused by the disposal of solid waste. In this sense, it is possible to combine experimental and environmental geotechnics with alternative and sustainable methods and practices for its approach in geotechnical civil works. In the scope of soil stabilization, for example, the use of alternative materials is still very incipient. In order to expand the area of knowledge in reference to the use of materials to reinforce compacted soils, the present work aimed at a simplified experimental analysis of the behavior of a lateritic soil reinforced with PET bottle fibers as a paving base. The behavior was simulated through laboratory tests of compaction, resistance to penetration and direct shear. The results obtained showed the influence of PET bottle fibers in increasing soil penetration resistance. It is suggested to deepen the evaluation of the behavior of the fibers for definitive conclusions.