Publish Date
30 Nov -0001
Abstract. Road infrastructure development on soft soils continues to face significant challenges due to low bearing capacity, high compressibility, and substantial settlement potential, which can adversely affect embankment stability and the service life of infrastructure. Various ground improvement methods have been developed; however, comparative studies addressing their technical effectiveness, economic feasibility, and sustainability remain limited. This study develops the GEONEST (Geofoam and Non-Geofoam Stability Technology) concept through two approaches: the use of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) Geofoam as a lightweight fill material and soil stabilization using a combination of nickel slag and natural palm fiber (ijuk). The research methodology consisted of a literature review, laboratory testing, and numerical analysis using Geo5 software. Laboratory tests were conducted to determine changes in the soil's geotechnical parameters, including cohesion (c), internal friction angle (φ), and unit weight (γ). Meanwhile, numerical analyses were performed to evaluate deformation, slope safety factor, and soil bearing capacity. The results indicate that EPS Geofoam effectively reduces the load imposed on the underlying soil, thereby minimizing deformation and improving embankment stability. In contrast, the combination of nickel slag and palm fiber enhances the shear strength of the soil, resulting in increased slope safety factors and bearing capacity. The two methods have complementary improvement mechanisms; therefore, the GEONEST concept has the potential to provide an effective, economical, and sustainable solution for soft soil improvement through the utilization of lightweight materials, industrial waste, and locally available natural fibers. Abstrak. Pembangunan infrastruktur jalan di atas tanah lunak masih menghadapi kendala akibat rendahnya daya dukung, tingginya kompresibilitas, dan besarnya potensi penurunan yang memengaruhi stabilitas timbunan serta umur layanan konstruksi. Berbagai metode perbaikan tanah telah dikembangkan, namun kajian komparatif mengenai efektivitas teknis, ekonomi, dan keberlanjutannya masih terbatas. Penelitian ini mengembangkan konsep GEONEST (Geofoam and Non-Geofoam Stability Technology) melalui dua pendekatan, yaitu penggunaan Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) Geofoam sebagai material timbunan ringan dan stabilisasi tanah menggunakan kombinasi slag nikel dan serat ijuk. Metode penelitian meliputi studi literatur, pengujian laboratorium, dan analisis numerik menggunakan perangkat lunak Geo5. Pengujian laboratorium digunakan untuk menentukan perubahan parameter geoteknik tanah berupa kohesi (c), sudut geser dalam (φ), dan berat isi (γ), sedangkan analisis numerik mengevaluasi deformasi, faktor keamanan lereng, dan daya dukung tanah. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa EPS Geofoam secara efektif mengurangi beban pada tanah dasar sehingga menekan deformasi dan meningkatkan stabilitas timbunan. Sebaliknya, kombinasi slag nikel–serat ijuk meningkatkan kuat geser tanah sehingga meningkatkan faktor keamanan lereng dan kapasitas dukung. Kedua metode memiliki mekanisme perbaikan yang saling melengkapi, sehingga konsep GEONEST berpotensi menjadi solusi perbaikan tanah lunak yang efektif, ekonomis, dan berkelanjutan melalui pemanfaatan material ringan, limbah industri, dan serat alami lokal.
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