Improvement of Gravel roads against Erosion caused by heavy rain using Bagasse ash and Spent Wash.

Abstract

Sri Lanka, where more than 50% of the roads are unpaved, this research focuses on the critical issue of erosion and the poor condition of unpaved gravel roads, which provide problems with transportation during rainy seasons and environmental hazards during dry periods. The primary goal is to use waste products from the sugar industry to minimize erosion and improve gravel road engineering. In order to improve the engineering properties of gravel road base materials, the research uses sugar cane byproducts, specifically bagasse ash and spent wash. Based on the results, it appears that a mixture of 5% spent wash and 2% bagasse ash would be the best option because it significantly improves the California Bearing Ratio (CBR) and cohesiveness, according to erosion study and field monitoring, the road’s the center remains stable while the sides of the road are mostly impacted by erosion. The study further highlights the possibility of using sugar cane byproducts as a financially advantageous and environmentally responsible way to increase the sustainability of unpaved roads, benefiting both local people and the overall economy.