Abstract
The aim of this study is to provide an alternative solution to ground improvement methods by using natural additive Boron, and recycled Ceramics in order to increase the strength of fine-grained sands and determine their physical and mechanical behaviors and implement sustainable and naturebased rehabilitation methods. In the study, clean angular sand samples were used as a base material. As an additive, boron derivative Colemanite and shells of recycled Ceramics were used. Those additive materials were added to the base material at rates of 5%, 10% and 15% based on the dry weights. Afterwards, 6 new mixed soil types were produced for the examinations. Atterberg limits, void ratio, specific gravity, unit volume weight, compaction and permeability tests were carried out on these samples. Regarding the comparison of the test results, Colemanite and sand mixtures reduce the permeability and void ratio significantly compared to Ceramic and Sand mixtures while increasing the compactness. It has been determined that the mechanical performance of Ceramic mixture sands has positive trend compared to the reference sand which has no additive. It is recommended to use both additives in 15% combination with sandy soil to set optimum results. This paper represents the findings from the laboratory research with particular emphasis on the use of mentioned alternative materials that provide more strengthened soils which result in economic benefits as well as reduced environmental impacts.