Comparative Analysis of Natural
Laterite and Cement-Sand
Modified Laterite for Improving
Soil Bearing Strength in
Structural Construction
Presented by:
NIYONTEGEREJE Giselle (221012210)
KUNDUWERA Methode (221014009)
NIYODUSENGA Albert (221011531)
Introduction
• • Lateritic soils: abundant, but weak in natural
state.
• • Issues: high plasticity, low strength,
moisture-sensitive.
• • Need for cost-effective soil improvement in
construction.
Problem Statement
• • Natural lateritic soils are weak for heavy
structures.
• • Exhibit swelling/shrinkage with moisture
changes.
• • Study addresses this using cement and sand
stabilization.
Objectives
• General Objective:
• • Improve strength of lateritic soil using
cement and sand.
• Specific Objectives:
• • Test natural laterite properties.
• • Evaluate modified soil with cement and
sand.
• • Recommend optimal mix for construction
use.
Methodology
• • Materials: Laterite, Portland Cement,
Kayumbo Sand.
• • Mixes: Cement (4–20%), Sand (8–40%).
• • Tests: Atterberg Limits, Compaction, CBR.
• • Standards: ASTM & BS.
Laboratory Procedures
• • Sample preparation and mixing.
• • Compaction test using Proctor method.
• • Soaking before CBR testing.
• • Used University of Rwanda CEGE Lab.
Results – Natural Laterite
• • Liquid Limit: ~36.8%
• • Plastic Limit: ~20.5%
• • Plasticity Index: Medium
• • CBR: Low (~6–9%)
• • MDD: ~1600 kg/m³, OMC: ~17%
Results – Stabilized Laterite
• • CBR significantly improved (above 30%)
• • Optimal mixes: 12% cement + 24% sand and
16% cement + 32% sand
• • Reduced plasticity and increased dry density
Comparative Analysis
• • Modified soil = better CBR, PI, and
compaction.
• • Sand improves gradation & drainage.
• • Cement improves bonding & strength.
• • Clear improvement in all geotechnical
parameters.
Discussion
• • Stabilization enhances bearing strength.
• • Best mix balances cost, strength, and
workability.
• • Sustainable use of local materials.
• • Supports low-cost infrastructure
development.
Conclusion
• • Cement-sand stabilized laterite = reliable for
foundations & roads.
• • Optimal mix: 12% cement + 24% sand or
16% cement + 32% sand.
• • Cost-effective, sustainable, and durable.
Recommendations
• • Promote stabilized laterite in rural
construction.
• • Future research on long-term durability.
• • Incorporate in national construction
standards.
• • Train local builders on proper mix
preparation.
Acknowledgements
• • Supervisor: Mr. Claver NGIRABAKUNZI
• • UR – CEGE Lab team
• • REB/BRD for sponsorship
• • Families and classmates for support
Questions & Answers
• Thank you for your attention!
• We welcome your questions.