What type of soil is considered ideal for a landfill?

The correct type of soil considered ideal for a landfill is clay soil. Clay soil has several properties that make it particularly suitable for this purpose. Its fine particles create a dense structure that reduces permeability, which helps to contain leachate (the liquid that drains or leaches from a landfill) and prevents groundwater contamination.

Clay also has a high plasticity and can be compacted effectively, further enhancing its ability to minimize the movement of liquids. This property is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the landfill over time and ensuring that hazardous materials do not escape into the surrounding environment.

In contrast, sandy loam, while it retains some moisture and supports plant growth, is more porous than clay and would not effectively contain leachate. Loamy soil, which is a mix of sand, silt, and clay, provides good drainage and fertility but lacks the impermeability required for a landfill. Silty soil, though it has some capacity to retain moisture, also has higher permeability than clay and does not provide the same level of containment. Therefore, clay soil is the most suitable choice for landfill construction and management.