Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This research project focuses on conducting a basic soil test on sub-grade soil material for flexible pavement design on the road linking Ugwuaji and the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT) campus in Enugu. The study aims to investigate the soil properties to determine their suitability for the construction of a flexible pavement. The research involves field surveys, laboratory tests, and analysis of the data collected to assess the sub-grade soil material's characteristics. The study area, which is the road connecting Ugwuaji and the IMT campus in Enugu, is crucial for transportation and daily commuting for residents and students. The condition of the road has deteriorated over time, leading to safety concerns and inconvenience for road users. By conducting a thorough soil test on the sub-grade material, this research seeks to provide valuable insights into the soil's properties and its impact on flexible pavement design. Various soil tests will be conducted in the laboratory, including tests for moisture content, grain size distribution, compaction characteristics, and California Bearing Ratio (CBR). These tests will help in evaluating the soil's strength, stiffness, and load-bearing capacity, which are essential factors in pavement design. The results of the soil tests will be analyzed and compared with standard specifications to determine if the soil material meets the requirements for flexible pavement design. Furthermore, the research will involve the design of a flexible pavement structure based on the soil test results and traffic analysis. The pavement design will consider factors such as traffic volume, vehicle types, and environmental conditions to ensure the road's durability and longevity. By using appropriate design methods and materials, the study aims to propose a cost-effective and sustainable pavement solution for the road linking Ugwuaji and the IMT campus. In conclusion, this research project on conducting a basic soil test on sub-grade soil material for flexible pavement design on the road linking Ugwuaji and the IMT campus in Enugu is essential for improving the road infrastructure and ensuring the safety and convenience of road users. The study's findings and recommendations will provide valuable insights for engineers, planners, and policymakers involved in road construction and maintenance projects.

Thesis Overview

COLLECTION OF SAMPLES AND LABORATORY TESTING PROGRAMThe test carried out in this project was on distributed soil sample.This implies collecting soil samples that are disfigured their natural shape.Soil samples were collected on three (3) trial pit along Ugwuaji and Campus 111 IMT Enugu. A total of three (3) samples were collected from the trial pits (one from each pit) using pick are and spade. The samples were taken at 1.0m depth in each pit. The samples were put in polythene bags and labelled A, B, C. The samples were spread on the floor of the soil laboratory and stones removed for seven (7) days to allow for air drying.The laboratory testing program comprises mechanical analysis, compaction test and atterberg limit tests, and the California bearing ratio (CBR) test.The objectives of the laboratory testing program were 1. To obtain a general information regarding the nature of the soil and their variation with depth throughout the length of the road under consideration.2. To obtain information regarding the strength characteristics of the soil.3. To obtain information which will enable engineers to group soils according to their appearances of the purposes of complying different soils.