Biopolymer-Induced Stabilization of Sandy Soils for Enhanced Erosion Resistance




Biopolymer-Induced Stabilization of Sandy Soils for Enhanced Erosion Resistance


Soil erosion is a critical issue for engineering structures exposed to water. Traditionally, inorganic additives like cement and lime have been used to enhance soil's resistance to erosion, but these materials can negatively impact the environment and water quality. Biopolymers have emerged as an environmentally friendly alternative, with previous studies validating their effectiveness in improving soil mechanical strength. However, the effect of biopolymers on resistance to erosion has not been adequately investigated. This study investigates the erodibility of a sandy soil treated with Xanthan Gum (XG), as a representative biopolymer. Using the Erosion Function Apparatus (EFA), we measured the critical velocity and established the erosion curve of treated and untreated soils. The results show that sand treated with 1% XG experienced a 575% increase in critical velocity and a tenfold shift in the erosion curve, demonstrating a significant improvement in erosion resistance compared to untreated sand.



Anish Lamsal; Mohammadhasan Sasar; Sherif L. Abdelaziz


2025 International Conference on Bio-mediated and Bio-inspired Geotechnics (ICBBG2025)



Special symposium: Biopolymer treated soils



https://doi.org/10.53243/ICBBG2025-87