Literature review on the addition of coconut husk and cement to improve soil properties

Vidal Anderson P.; Rojas José Manuel H. · Proceedings of the LACCEI international Multi-conference for Engineering, Education and Technology (2025) · DOI: 10.18687/laccei2025.1.1.152

Resumen

Soil stabilization using natural materials has gained importance in civil engineering, highlighting the use of agroindustrial waste such as coconut shells, a sustainable resource with multiple benefits. This article reviews the current literature on the effects of coconut husk and cement in soil stabilization, focusing on its chemical and physical properties, as well as its application in clayey soils with low bearing capacity. The studies analyzed indicate that the use of coconut husk, in its shredded form or as charcoal powder, significantly improves shear strength, bearing capacity (measured through CBR tests) and resistance to deformation. Also, the addition of this residue reduces soil expansion under wet conditions, which is crucial for the durability of road infrastructures in regions with problematic soils. The optimal incorporation percentages and test methods used in the investigations reviewed are also discussed, highlighting the usefulness of this alternative as an ecologically and economically viable method for subgrade stabilization. The review concludes that the use of coconut shell in soil stabilization projects is an effective strategy to improve soil mechanical properties, reduce environmental impact and promote the reuse of organic wastes.

Instituciones: Universidad Tecnológica del Perú