Understanding the microstructure, mineralogical and adsorption characteristics of guar gum blended soil as a liner material

Sustainable utilization of biopolymers as green adhesive in soil improvement: a review

Throughout history, soil improvement has relied on various additives, from ancient practices using lime and other traditional compounds to modern methods employing geosynthetics and microbial treatments. However, conventional soil admixtures, while effective, often carry significant environmental drawbacks, especially in the case of additives like cement. In response to these environmental concerns, there has been a growing interest in the use of biopolymers as a sustainable alternative for ground improvement. This literature review centers on the properties and performance of biopolymers, addressing their increasing adoption in soil enhancement endeavors. It explores the historical context of soil improvement practices, highlights the contemporary environmental challenges posed by traditional additives, and underscores the emerging trend toward biopolymers as a green adhesive solution. The review further probes into specific biopolymers, examining their characteristics and elucidating how biopolymer-treated soils achieve the desired improvements. In essence, this review provides a comprehensive understanding of the historical evolution of soil improvement practices, the current environmental imperatives, and the promising role that biopolymers play in achieving sustainable soil enhancement. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners seeking environmentally friendly alternatives in geotechnical engineering.

Crustacean polysaccharides for the geotechnical enhancement of organic silt: A clean and green alternative

Biopolymer-based soil stabilization offers a clean alternative to conventional stabilizers like cement and lime. This study investigates the possibility of using shrimp-based chitin and chitosan for stabilizing low plastic silt with organic content by investigating their effect on pH, compaction, strength, hydraulic conductivity (HC) and consolidation characteristics. X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectrum shows that no new chemical compounds were formed in the soil on additive treatment; however, results of scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis indicate the formation of biopolymer threads that bridge the voids in the soil matrix leading to a stiffer soil matrix, with increased strength and lower HC. Chitosan showed nearly 103 % strength enhancement after 28 d of curing with no degradation. However, chitin failed as a soil stabilizing additive as it showed degradation owing to fungal bloom after 14 d of curing. Chitosan can therefore be recommended as a non-polluting and sustainable soil additive.