A review of the use of bio-based substances in soil stabilization

Mahyar Arabani () and Mohammad Mahdi Shalchian ()
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Mahyar Arabani: University of Guilan
Mohammad Mahdi Shalchian: University of Guilan

Environment, Development and Sustainability: A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Theory and Practice of Sustainable Development, 2024, vol. 26, issue 6, No 5, 13685-13737

Abstract: Abstract Conventional techniques of soil stabilization involve using additives such as lime and cement. However, these methods take up a great deal of energy and cause considerable environmental pollution. Recently, bio-additives have been taken into account as sustainable development, cost-effective, and environmentally acceptable alternatives to chemical stabilizers in geo-environmental applications. In these techniques, bio-chemical activities, including bio-cementing, bio-clogging, bio-coating, and bio-encapsulation, are employed to stabilize soil particles. The present study aims to examine the impact of bio-stabilizers type and quantity on the geotechnical characteristics of soil for soil stabilization. For this purpose, the biochemical performance of various biological methods of soil stabilization (e.g., bio-microorganisms; bioenzymes; and biopolymers) is first presented. Then, the behaviors of bio-substances in all types of soils are investigated through a comprehensive review of previous research. Afterward, the biochemical behavior of bio-additives and their properties, mechanism, application, and interaction with soil particles are investigated on a microscopic and macroscopic scale. Next, the most effective factors in bio-stabilization are determined and evaluated. Finally, the essential recommendations for choosing the kinds and amount of bio-additives for soil stabilization are offered based on the soil type. The findings of this study indicate that the performance of bio-stabilizers is based on the percentage and type of bio-additives, soil type, and the quantity of electrostatic forces generated during cementation and hydrogel production. In addition, among various bio-additives, S. pasteurii and Bacillus sphaericus, TerraZyme, Xanthan gum, and Guar gum showed the best performance by increasing mechanical/shear strength by up to 300% and decreasing permeability, compressibility, and/or shrinkage properties. Furthermore, temperature, curing time, and soil pH were determined as crucial factors in establishing interlocking forces between soil particles and choosing the appropriate biomass.

Keywords: Environmental pollution; Sustainable development; Soil stabilizers; Bio-microorganisms; Bio-enzymes; Bio-polymers (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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DOI: 10.1007/s10668-023-03241-w

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