Geotechnical Assessment of Lateritic Soil for Subgrade and Sub-Base Applications in Road Construction: A Case Study from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Imoh Godwin Nwa

doi:doi:10.11648/j.jccee.20251006.15

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Geotechnical Assessment of Lateritic Soil for Subgrade and Sub-Base Applications in Road Construction: A Case Study from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Imoh Godwin Nwa^*

Published in Journal of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering (Volume 10, Issue 6)

Received: 13 October 2025 Accepted: 25 October 2025 Published: 3 December 2025

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Abstract

This study evaluates the geotechnical properties of lateritic soil from borrow pits in Ekit Itam II, Afia Nsit Atai II, and Ikot Ekpuk villages in Itu, Nsit Ibom, and Oruk Anam Local Government Areas, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, to assess its suitability for subgrade and sub-base applications in road construction. Laboratory tests, conducted in accordance with the Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing specifications, included particle size distribution, Atterberg limits, compaction characteristics, and California Bearing Ratio (CBR). The results demonstrate that the soils meet the required standards for road foundation layers. Specifically, the liquid limits were 28%, 34%, and 28%, with plastic limits of 17%, 21%, and 16%, and plasticity indices of 11%, 13%, and 12% for samples L1, L2, and L3, respectively. The maximum dry densities ranged from 1.97 g/cm³ to 2.03 g/cm³, with optimum moisture contents of 8%, 9.89%, and 10.02%. CBR values for sub-base applications were 38.50%, 33.30%, and 65.40% (24-hour half-soaked) and for subgrade were 21.60%, 15%, and 40.60% (48-hour fully soaked). Particle size analysis revealed D10 values of 0.08-0.09 mm, D30 of 0.18-0.25 mm, and D60 of 0.30-0.45 mm, with coefficients of uniformity (Cu) of 3.33-5.63 and curvature (Cc) of 1.00-1.74, indicating poorly graded clayey sand (SC) soils under the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS) and A-2-6 under the AASHTO classification. These properties confirm the lateritic soil’s suitability for use as subgrade and sub-base materials, supporting sustainable road infrastructure development in Akwa Ibom State. The findings underscore the importance of thorough geotechnical assessments to ensure the quality and durability of pavement materials, contributing to improved regional connectivity and economic growth. Recommendations include ongoing research to characterize soil variability across borrow pits to guide material selection for construction projects.

Published in	Journal of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering (Volume 10, Issue 6)
DOI	10.11648/j.jccee.20251006.15
Page(s)	253-261
Creative Commons	This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.
Copyright	Copyright © The Author(s), 2025. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Lateritic Soil, Subgrade, Sub-base, Geotechnical Properties, Road Construction, Akwa Ibom, Nigeria

References

[1]	American Association of State Highways and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). (n.d.). Standard Specifications for Transportation Materials and Methods of Sampling and Testing. AASHTO, Washington, DC.
[2]	Abija, F. A. (2019). Geotechnical assessment of subgrade and sub-base quality for the design and construction of road pavement in parts of the coastal section of Akwa Ibom State, Eastern Niger Delta, Nigeria. International Journal of Scientific & Engineering Research, 10(7), 1234-1256.
[3]	Abija, F., & Desmond, E. (2019). Subgrade hydraulic characteristics, seepage induced road failures and design implications for sustainable pavement infrastructure in parts of the coastal section of Akwa Ibom State, Eastern Niger Delta, Nigeria. Int. J. Civ. of Civil Construction and Eng. Constr. Estate Manage, 7(4), 1-17.
[4]	Attah, I. C., et al. (2021). Understanding the effect of compaction energies on the strength indices and durability of oyster shell ash-lateritic soil mixtures for use in road works. Applied Science Research, 48(2).
[5]	Ayodele, A. L., & Falade, F. A. (2016). Some geotechnical properties of selected sub-base materials for road construction. Civil and Environmental Research, 8(8), 31-39.
[6]	Ehujuo, C. C., Okeke, F. N., & Ogbuchukwu, I. M. (2019). Geotechnical Properties of Lateritic Soils Derived from Various Geologic Formations in Southeastern Nigeria. International Journal of Geography, Environment and Management, 10(10), 84-100.
[7]	Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing. (2016). General Specification for Roads and Bridges. Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing, Abuja, Nigeria.
[8]	Federal Ministry of Works. (2013). Highway Design Manual: Pavement and Material Design (Vol. III). Federal Ministry of Works, Abuja, Nigeria.
[9]	Nigeria’s Highway Design Manual. (2009). Federal Ministry of Works, Abuja, Nigeria.
[10]	Nnurum, E. U., et al. (2025). Geotechnical properties of soils in parts of Abia State, Nigeria, and their suitability as subgrade material. International Journal of Scientific Engineering and Science, 9(6), 29-34.
[11]	Nwakaire, C. M., et al. (2024). Geotechnical Properties of Some Earth Materials Used for Road Pavement Construction in Anambra State. UNIZIK Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences, 3(3), 903-909. https://journals.unizik.edu.ng/index.php/ujeas
[12]	Oglesby, C. H., & Hicks, R. J. (1992). Highway Engineering. Wiley, New York, NY.
[13]	Quadri, H. A., et al. (2012). Investigation of the geotechnical engineering properties of laterite as a subgrade and sub-base material for road constructions in Nigeria. Civil and Environmental Research, 2(8), 23-31.
[14]	Kelechi, N. E., et al. (2025) Sustainable soil-structure interaction for road infrastructure in flood-prone regions of Nigeria. The Asian Review of Civil Engineering, 14(1), 1-8.
[15]	Tse, A. A., & Ogunyemi, A. O. (2016). Geotechnical and chemical evaluation of tropical red soils in a deltaic environment: Implications for road construction. International Journal of Geology, Earth and Environmental Sciences, 6(1), 19-29.
[16]	Ugbe, F. C. (2011). Basic engineering geological properties of lateritic soils from Western Niger Delta. Research Journal of Environmental and Earth Sciences, 3(5), 571-577.
[17]	Unified Soil Classification System (USCS). (n.d.). ASTM D2487-17: Standard Practice for Classification of Soils for Engineering Purposes. ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA.

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Nwa, I. G. (2025). Geotechnical Assessment of Lateritic Soil for Subgrade and Sub-Base Applications in Road Construction: A Case Study from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Journal of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, 10(6), 253-261. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jccee.20251006.15

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ACS Style

Nwa, I. G. Geotechnical Assessment of Lateritic Soil for Subgrade and Sub-Base Applications in Road Construction: A Case Study from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. J. Civ. Constr. Environ. Eng. 2025, 10(6), 253-261. doi: 10.11648/j.jccee.20251006.15

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AMA Style

Nwa IG. Geotechnical Assessment of Lateritic Soil for Subgrade and Sub-Base Applications in Road Construction: A Case Study from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. J Civ Constr Environ Eng. 2025;10(6):253-261. doi: 10.11648/j.jccee.20251006.15

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@article{10.11648/j.jccee.20251006.15,
  author = {Imoh Godwin Nwa},
  title = {Geotechnical Assessment of Lateritic Soil for Subgrade and Sub-Base Applications in Road Construction: A Case Study from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
},
  journal = {Journal of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering},
  volume = {10},
  number = {6},
  pages = {253-261},
  doi = {10.11648/j.jccee.20251006.15},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jccee.20251006.15},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.jccee.20251006.15},
  abstract = {This study evaluates the geotechnical properties of lateritic soil from borrow pits in Ekit Itam II, Afia Nsit Atai II, and Ikot Ekpuk villages in Itu, Nsit Ibom, and Oruk Anam Local Government Areas, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, to assess its suitability for subgrade and sub-base applications in road construction. Laboratory tests, conducted in accordance with the Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing specifications, included particle size distribution, Atterberg limits, compaction characteristics, and California Bearing Ratio (CBR). The results demonstrate that the soils meet the required standards for road foundation layers. Specifically, the liquid limits were 28%, 34%, and 28%, with plastic limits of 17%, 21%, and 16%, and plasticity indices of 11%, 13%, and 12% for samples L1, L2, and L3, respectively. The maximum dry densities ranged from 1.97 g/cm3 to 2.03 g/cm3, with optimum moisture contents of 8%, 9.89%, and 10.02%. CBR values for sub-base applications were 38.50%, 33.30%, and 65.40% (24-hour half-soaked) and for subgrade were 21.60%, 15%, and 40.60% (48-hour fully soaked). Particle size analysis revealed D10 values of 0.08-0.09 mm, D30 of 0.18-0.25 mm, and D60 of 0.30-0.45 mm, with coefficients of uniformity (Cu) of 3.33-5.63 and curvature (Cc) of 1.00-1.74, indicating poorly graded clayey sand (SC) soils under the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS) and A-2-6 under the AASHTO classification. These properties confirm the lateritic soil’s suitability for use as subgrade and sub-base materials, supporting sustainable road infrastructure development in Akwa Ibom State. The findings underscore the importance of thorough geotechnical assessments to ensure the quality and durability of pavement materials, contributing to improved regional connectivity and economic growth. Recommendations include ongoing research to characterize soil variability across borrow pits to guide material selection for construction projects.
},
 year = {2025}
}

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TY  - JOUR
T1  - Geotechnical Assessment of Lateritic Soil for Subgrade and Sub-Base Applications in Road Construction: A Case Study from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

AU  - Imoh Godwin Nwa
Y1  - 2025/12/03
PY  - 2025
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jccee.20251006.15
DO  - 10.11648/j.jccee.20251006.15
T2  - Journal of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering
JF  - Journal of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering
JO  - Journal of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering
SP  - 253
EP  - 261
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2637-3890
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jccee.20251006.15
AB  - This study evaluates the geotechnical properties of lateritic soil from borrow pits in Ekit Itam II, Afia Nsit Atai II, and Ikot Ekpuk villages in Itu, Nsit Ibom, and Oruk Anam Local Government Areas, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, to assess its suitability for subgrade and sub-base applications in road construction. Laboratory tests, conducted in accordance with the Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing specifications, included particle size distribution, Atterberg limits, compaction characteristics, and California Bearing Ratio (CBR). The results demonstrate that the soils meet the required standards for road foundation layers. Specifically, the liquid limits were 28%, 34%, and 28%, with plastic limits of 17%, 21%, and 16%, and plasticity indices of 11%, 13%, and 12% for samples L1, L2, and L3, respectively. The maximum dry densities ranged from 1.97 g/cm3 to 2.03 g/cm3, with optimum moisture contents of 8%, 9.89%, and 10.02%. CBR values for sub-base applications were 38.50%, 33.30%, and 65.40% (24-hour half-soaked) and for subgrade were 21.60%, 15%, and 40.60% (48-hour fully soaked). Particle size analysis revealed D10 values of 0.08-0.09 mm, D30 of 0.18-0.25 mm, and D60 of 0.30-0.45 mm, with coefficients of uniformity (Cu) of 3.33-5.63 and curvature (Cc) of 1.00-1.74, indicating poorly graded clayey sand (SC) soils under the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS) and A-2-6 under the AASHTO classification. These properties confirm the lateritic soil’s suitability for use as subgrade and sub-base materials, supporting sustainable road infrastructure development in Akwa Ibom State. The findings underscore the importance of thorough geotechnical assessments to ensure the quality and durability of pavement materials, contributing to improved regional connectivity and economic growth. Recommendations include ongoing research to characterize soil variability across borrow pits to guide material selection for construction projects.

VL  - 10
IS  - 6
ER  -

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Imoh Godwin Nwa

University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria

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http://orcid.org/0009-0006-0081-4399

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APA Style

Nwa, I. G. (2025). Geotechnical Assessment of Lateritic Soil for Subgrade and Sub-Base Applications in Road Construction: A Case Study from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Journal of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, 10(6), 253-261. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jccee.20251006.15

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ACS Style

Nwa, I. G. Geotechnical Assessment of Lateritic Soil for Subgrade and Sub-Base Applications in Road Construction: A Case Study from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. J. Civ. Constr. Environ. Eng. 2025, 10(6), 253-261. doi: 10.11648/j.jccee.20251006.15

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AMA Style

Nwa IG. Geotechnical Assessment of Lateritic Soil for Subgrade and Sub-Base Applications in Road Construction: A Case Study from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. J Civ Constr Environ Eng. 2025;10(6):253-261. doi: 10.11648/j.jccee.20251006.15

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@article{10.11648/j.jccee.20251006.15,
  author = {Imoh Godwin Nwa},
  title = {Geotechnical Assessment of Lateritic Soil for Subgrade and Sub-Base Applications in Road Construction: A Case Study from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
},
  journal = {Journal of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering},
  volume = {10},
  number = {6},
  pages = {253-261},
  doi = {10.11648/j.jccee.20251006.15},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jccee.20251006.15},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.jccee.20251006.15},
  abstract = {This study evaluates the geotechnical properties of lateritic soil from borrow pits in Ekit Itam II, Afia Nsit Atai II, and Ikot Ekpuk villages in Itu, Nsit Ibom, and Oruk Anam Local Government Areas, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, to assess its suitability for subgrade and sub-base applications in road construction. Laboratory tests, conducted in accordance with the Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing specifications, included particle size distribution, Atterberg limits, compaction characteristics, and California Bearing Ratio (CBR). The results demonstrate that the soils meet the required standards for road foundation layers. Specifically, the liquid limits were 28%, 34%, and 28%, with plastic limits of 17%, 21%, and 16%, and plasticity indices of 11%, 13%, and 12% for samples L1, L2, and L3, respectively. The maximum dry densities ranged from 1.97 g/cm3 to 2.03 g/cm3, with optimum moisture contents of 8%, 9.89%, and 10.02%. CBR values for sub-base applications were 38.50%, 33.30%, and 65.40% (24-hour half-soaked) and for subgrade were 21.60%, 15%, and 40.60% (48-hour fully soaked). Particle size analysis revealed D10 values of 0.08-0.09 mm, D30 of 0.18-0.25 mm, and D60 of 0.30-0.45 mm, with coefficients of uniformity (Cu) of 3.33-5.63 and curvature (Cc) of 1.00-1.74, indicating poorly graded clayey sand (SC) soils under the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS) and A-2-6 under the AASHTO classification. These properties confirm the lateritic soil’s suitability for use as subgrade and sub-base materials, supporting sustainable road infrastructure development in Akwa Ibom State. The findings underscore the importance of thorough geotechnical assessments to ensure the quality and durability of pavement materials, contributing to improved regional connectivity and economic growth. Recommendations include ongoing research to characterize soil variability across borrow pits to guide material selection for construction projects.
},
 year = {2025}
}

Copy | Download

TY  - JOUR
T1  - Geotechnical Assessment of Lateritic Soil for Subgrade and Sub-Base Applications in Road Construction: A Case Study from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

AU  - Imoh Godwin Nwa
Y1  - 2025/12/03
PY  - 2025
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jccee.20251006.15
DO  - 10.11648/j.jccee.20251006.15
T2  - Journal of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering
JF  - Journal of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering
JO  - Journal of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering
SP  - 253
EP  - 261
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2637-3890
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jccee.20251006.15
AB  - This study evaluates the geotechnical properties of lateritic soil from borrow pits in Ekit Itam II, Afia Nsit Atai II, and Ikot Ekpuk villages in Itu, Nsit Ibom, and Oruk Anam Local Government Areas, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, to assess its suitability for subgrade and sub-base applications in road construction. Laboratory tests, conducted in accordance with the Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing specifications, included particle size distribution, Atterberg limits, compaction characteristics, and California Bearing Ratio (CBR). The results demonstrate that the soils meet the required standards for road foundation layers. Specifically, the liquid limits were 28%, 34%, and 28%, with plastic limits of 17%, 21%, and 16%, and plasticity indices of 11%, 13%, and 12% for samples L1, L2, and L3, respectively. The maximum dry densities ranged from 1.97 g/cm3 to 2.03 g/cm3, with optimum moisture contents of 8%, 9.89%, and 10.02%. CBR values for sub-base applications were 38.50%, 33.30%, and 65.40% (24-hour half-soaked) and for subgrade were 21.60%, 15%, and 40.60% (48-hour fully soaked). Particle size analysis revealed D10 values of 0.08-0.09 mm, D30 of 0.18-0.25 mm, and D60 of 0.30-0.45 mm, with coefficients of uniformity (Cu) of 3.33-5.63 and curvature (Cc) of 1.00-1.74, indicating poorly graded clayey sand (SC) soils under the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS) and A-2-6 under the AASHTO classification. These properties confirm the lateritic soil’s suitability for use as subgrade and sub-base materials, supporting sustainable road infrastructure development in Akwa Ibom State. The findings underscore the importance of thorough geotechnical assessments to ensure the quality and durability of pavement materials, contributing to improved regional connectivity and economic growth. Recommendations include ongoing research to characterize soil variability across borrow pits to guide material selection for construction projects.

VL  - 10
IS  - 6
ER  -

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