Characterization of laterite soil and its use in construction applications: A review
G. Santha Kumar, Pushkar Saini, Rajesh Deoliya, Aman Kumar Mishra, Sujal Negi
Abstract
Laterisation is an uncontrolled natural process that was influenced by the synergetic effect of atmospheric and geological conditions. Laterite soil 'leached residue' is the resultant from the process of laterisation and is widely distributed these days throughout the world. Meanwhile, the construction sector is facing sustainability issues these days due to over exploitation of raw material from natural resources and therefore, an ideal solution is to utilize the laterite soil as an alteranative sand / raw material for promoting sustainable development. The present paper presents an overview of the significant studies, based on identification, appraisal, selection and characterization of laterite soil in various aspects and its feasible utilization as an alteranative sand / raw material for the production of bricks, mortar, concrete, geopolymeric products and road pavements. This review paper also summarizes potential future research areas for enhancing the utilization of laterite in construction sector.