Geotechnical testing to determine the suitability of biosolids for embankment fill

Abstract

Biosolids are an end product of municipal wastewater treatment and contain many of the constituents removed from the influent wastewater. The use of biosolids and other waste materials in a sustainable manner is currently being investigated in several countries around the world. A series of field tests were undertaken on biosolids stockpiles at Western Treatment Plant in Victoria. Following the field tests and sampling geotechnical laboratory tests were undertaken to assess the viability of using biosolids as fill material for embankment fills. Geotechnical properties of untreated biosolids and stabilised biosolids with 1%, 3% and 5% of cement were obtained from the laboratory tests. The field and laboratory test results were compared with the existing local road authority specification for fill material