Abstract

The study investigated variability of rheological and physical properties of wormcast (Wc) and termite mound (Tm) soils in relation to surrounding soils (Ss) in Nsukka tropical and subtropical areas. Rheological and physical properties, shear strength and compaction at different moisture contents were obtained. Relationships between rheological and other physical attributes were established. Consistency limits of Wc and Tm soils were significant. Mean shear strength (cohesion) of Wc and Tm were high. Mean shear strength of Wc was 85.09 kpa and 91.55 kpa for Tm soils), while Ss had 69.80 kpa. The maximum shear strength of compacted (15 blows) Wc and Tm was 188 and 190 kpa at 12 (db) moisture content, respectively. There was significant (p<0.05) positive relationship between gravimetric moisture content and clay. Sand had significant negative relationship with plasticity index. The study demonstrated the usefulness of characterizing Wc and Tm in relation to surrounding soil (Ss) and their relative efficacy in predicting soil behavior.

Key words: Rheology, physical property, termite mound, wormcast, tropical and subtropical area.