Evaluation of Engineering Properties of Expansive Soil Using Red Mud as Soil Stabilizing

Large-volume red mud generation during alumina extraction from bauxite is a significant global environmental concern. India, one of the world's top producers of alumina, can produce between 6.5 and 7 million tonnes of alumina annually, with an estimated 9.75 to 10.5 million tonnes of red mud generated. To increase the suitability of problematic soils for construction, this study looks into the application of red mud for stabilising expansive black cotton soil (BCS). When exposed to moisture, expansive soils are disposed to extreme changes in volume and unfavourable engineering behaviour. Through a number of laboratory tests, including, California bearing ratio (CBR), Proctor compaction, specific gravity, Free Swell Index, Atterberg limits and standard Proctor tests, the study assesses the geotechnical characteristics of red mud-stabilized BCS. The results highlight that when the proportion red mud in the soil increases, most of its characteristics decrease, with the exception of CBR and OMC. At 20% red mud addition, the CBR and MDD values were noted at their highest level. According to the study, red mud, an industrial byproduct, provides an environmentally friendly way to reduce pollution in the environment by stabilising soil. It helps to lower the swelling potential of expansive soils, improve CBR values, and lessen volumetric changes. These findings suggest that red mud is a highly effective stabilizer, providing a sustainable approach to enhancing soil properties in geotechnical applications.