Study of a geotechnical evaluation of termite mound clay as a potential replacement of Bentonite in developing low permeability soil mix

Abstract

Termite Mound Clay studied to compare the potential with the Bentonite in compacted clay liner system of Landfill. Undoubtedly, Bentonite Widely in this industry due to its low level of permeability. However, Bentonite has a weakness in the shrinkage and also a high fracture. With this problems, can cause side effects on humans and the environment. Hydraulic conductivity of clay mineral suggested to be applied in the compacted clay liner system is 1 × 10-7 m / s and more effective if the value is diminishing. Following this issue, the Termite Mound Clay has been studied because of similarities to the Bentonite. Thus, several laboratory tests have been conducted such as Grain Size Analysis, Atterberg Limit, shrinkage test, and finally the Falling Head Permeability Test. The percentage of 10%, 20%, 30% Clay Mineral with laterite soil was tested and the results of Termite Mound Clay A has a low permeability compared to Bentonite and Termite Mound Clay B with value of 3.92 × 10-8 m / s tend to 2.12 × 10-8 m / s. Through the study, the value of permeability of the Bentonite and Termite Mound Clay are not too much different. In conclusion, Termite Mound Clay A has the ability to replace Bentonite but require more comprehensive analysis to strengthen this study.