How can soil stabilization be achieved in earthwork projects?

Soil stabilization is a critical process in earthwork projects that enhances the strength and durability of the soil, making it suitable for construction and other uses. The method of adding materials such as lime, cement, or chemicals plays a significant role in this process. These additive materials chemically react with the soil particles, effectively binding them together and transforming the physical properties of the soil.

When lime or cement is added, it alters the soil's composition by facilitating moisture control and increasing the load-bearing capacity, which is vital for supporting structures like roads or buildings. This technique is widely used because it not only improves soil strength but also helps in reducing plasticity and swelling characteristics, which can be problematic for construction projects.

The other options, while relevant to soil management in some capacity, do not effectively achieve stabilization as described in this context. Removing excess soil can help in managing site conditions but does not enhance the soil's structural integrity. Planting grass and shrubs can assist in erosion control and promote environmental aesthetics but does not contribute to the engineering properties of the soil in terms of stability. Compaction plays a role in increasing the soil density but, without the addition of stabilizing agents, it does not chemically improve the soil’s strength or reduce its plasticity. Therefore,