Re-Using Polyethylene Bag (A Plastic Waste) for Soil Stabilization

Mamta L Prjapati, Nipa A. Desai

Abstract: Soil plays a critical role in supporting structural loads. Weak soil with low bearing capacity poses challenges to construction stability. Soil stabilization provides an effective solution to this problem. In this study, waste polyethylene bags, a major source of plastic pollution, were used as reinforcement material to stabilize soil. Experimental investigations including water content, specific gravity, sieve analysis, compaction, permeability, and bearing capacity tests were conducted on soil samples with and without plastic waste. The results revealed that inclusion of 0.1% plastic waste enhanced the soil?s safe bearing capacity from 43.15 kN/m? to 93.16 kN/m?. Furthermore, improvements in consistency limits and density characteristics were observed. This indicates that plastic waste can be effectively used as a low-cost, eco-friendly material for ground improvement, providing dual benefits of waste management and enhanced soil strength.

Keywords: Plastic Waste, Polyethylene Bags, Safe Bearing Capacity, Soil Stabilization

How to Cite?: Mamta L Prjapati, Nipa A. Desai, "Re-Using Polyethylene Bag (A Plastic Waste) for Soil Stabilization", Volume 14 Issue 8, August 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1348-1351, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25822131453, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25822131453