*3.3. UCS Test*

Unconfined compression strength test (UCS) was performed using 21 samples, 3 in each batch. UCS and density results are given and compared in Figure 7. First, Figure 7a shows UCS result after 28 days of air curing. Second, Figure 7b presents the UCS and ductility results against the molasses content. Finally, the sample density and the UCS/density ratio are also plotted against the molasses content in Figure 7c. UCS of soil in natural conditions (M0) was 1.34 MPa, for the mixture with optimum molasses content (M2) was 2.14 Mpa, and for the mixture with the maximum molasses content was 1.27 MPa.

**Figure 7.** *Cont*.

**Figure 7.** (**a**) UCS test, (**b**) UCS and ductility, (**c**) density and UCS/density.

Figure 8 presents the soil cylinders and failure characteristics of each mixture after compression tests, revealing different failure types, from a brittle failure in soil samples with low molasses content, to a more ductile failure in soils with higher molasses content. Therefore, molasses increases the possibility of a more ductile fracture and behavior.
