ABSTRACT
This study investigates the distinctive physical and chemical characteristics of laterite soil and evaluates its suitability for building construction, town planning, and formulation of government policies. The experiment carried out on the laterite soil gave the following results natural moisture content of 31% liquid limit of liquid limit of 55% plastic limit of 22%, specific gravity 2.54, maximum dry density1.61, moisture content 31.65.The chemical analysis of the laterite soil shows that soil had Fe2So3to be the greatest constituent. The comprehensive analysis, the physical and chemical characteristics of the laterite soil were examined. The compaction properties, particle size distribution, density, and shear strength characteristics were assessed, providing insights into its engineering behavior. The substantial iron content, a distinctive feature of laterite soils, was found to significantly influence its suitability for various applications. In building construction, the high iron content enhances load-bearing capacity, necessitating specialized construction techniques. Furthermore, the reddish coloration derived from iron oxides (Fe2O3) serves as a visual identifier, impacting urban aesthetics. The study also highlights the relevance of considering laterite soil properties in town planning, emphasizing the importance of tailored engineering practices and policies for sustainable infrastructure development. These findings underscore the necessity for collaborative efforts between geotechnical engineers, urban planners, and governmental bodies to optimize the utilization of laterite soils in construction and urban development projects. This research contributes valuable insights for informed decision-making in engineering, town planning, and policy formulation in regions characterized by laterite soils.
