Work

Experimental investigation of a special chemical additive for improving the geotechnical properties of dispersive clay soils

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Dispersive clay soils present significant challenges in geotechnical engineering due to their high susceptibility to erosion and structural instability. Traditional stabilizers such as lime and cement are often costly and less eco-friendly, and may require higher percentages to achieve the desired performance. This research evaluates the effectiveness of RRP 235 Special , an eco-friendly, algae-based chemical additive, in improving the geotechnical properties and reducing the dispersivity potential of clay soils in Urmia, Iran. A comprehensive experimental program was carried out, including pinhole test, compaction test, Atterberg limits, unconfined compressive strength (UCS), California bearing ratio (CBR), consolidated undrained triaxial test, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Six percent of RRP235 Special (0.0115–0.0498 %) was applied, with curing times of 0, 3, and 7 days. Wet–dry cycling tests were also performed to assess durability. The optimal percentage of 0.0345 % changed the soil classification from dispersive (D2) to non-dispersive (ND4) after 7 days. The plasticity index decreased by 76 %, maximum dry density increased, while optimum moisture content decreased, and shear strength parameters improved by up to 67 %. At 0.0498 %, UCS and CBR values increased by 47 % and 82 %, respectively. SEM analysis revealed improved particle bonding and reduced pore space, while durability tests indicated less than 5 % strength loss after five wet–dry cycles. RRP 235 Special proved to be highly effective at low percentages, economically advantageous compared to conventional stabilizers, and environmentally compatible, making it a promising alternative for sustainable soil stabilization in infrastructure projects.

Source: Results in Engineering

DOI: 10.1016/j.rineng.2025.107015

Authors: Hamed Pouraziz, Ramin Vafaei Poursorkhabi, Mikaiel Yousefzadeh Fard, Rouzbeh Dabiri

Institution: Islamic Azad University of Tabriz

Language: English

Topic: Geotechnical Engineering and Soil Stabilization

Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Life on land

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,940