Biogrouting, a method to enhance soil properties using microorganisms and mechanical techniques, has shown great potential for soil improvement. Most studies focus on small sand columns in labs, but recent tests used 0.5 m plastic boxes filled with sand stabilized with microorganisms and fly ash. The experiments, conducted over 30 days, applied injection and infusion methods with microbial fluids, maintaining groundwater levels to simulate field conditions. Mechanical properties were analyzed through unconfined compressive strength (UCS) tests on extracted samples. Researchers also assessed calcium carbonate distribution and shear strength. Results showed water saturation significantly influenced vertical stress (qu), while UCS correlated with the permeability of sand containing varying calcium carbonate levels. Bacillus safensis, a resilient bacterium used in this process, can withstand extreme conditions. After completing its task, it enters a dormant state and reactivates when needed. The bacteria produce calcium carbonate by binding calcium with enzymes, which cements soil particles, enhancing strength and stability. center dot Testing enzymes on microbes and natural soil center dot Installation settings for drip tools using infusion center dot Soil resistance testing after stabilization using UCS

In response to the environmental challenges posed by conventional expansive soil stabilization methods, this study investigates the low-carbon potential of industrial by-products-cement kiln dust (CKD) and calcium carbide slag (CCS)-as sustainable stabilizers. A comprehensive series of laboratory tests, including compaction tests, free swelling rate measurements, unconfined compressive strength (UCS) evaluations, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses, were conducted on expansive soil samples treated with varying dosages in both single and binary formulations. The results indicate that the binary system significantly outperforms individual stabilizers; for example, a formulation containing 10% CKD and 9% CCS achieved a maximum dry density of 1.64 g/cm3, reduced the free swelling rate to 22.7% at 28 days, and reached a UCS of 371.3 kPa. SEM analysis further revealed that the enhanced performance is due to the synergistic formation of hydration products-namely calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) and calcium aluminate hydrate (C-A-H)-which effectively fill interparticle voids and reinforce soil structure. These findings demonstrate that the dual mechanism, combining rapid early-stage hydration from CCS with sustained long-term strength development from CKD, offers a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable alternative to traditional stabilizers for expansive soils.

This study investigates the sustainable use of seabed dredged sediments and water treatment sludges as construction materials using combined dewatering and cement stabilization techniques. Dredged sediments and water treatment sludges, typically considered waste, were evaluated for their suitability in construction through a series of dewatering and stabilization processes. Dewatering significantly reduced the initial moisture content, while cement stabilization improved the mechanical properties, including strength and stiffness. The unconfined compressive strength (UCS), shear modulus, and microstructural changes were evaluated using various analytical techniques, including unconfined compression testing, free-free resonance testing, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The results show a direct correlation between reduced w/c ratios and increased UCS, confirming the potential of treated sludge as a subbase layer for roads and landfill liners. A chemical analysis revealed the formation of calcium silicate hydrate (CSH) and ettringite, which are critical for strength enhancement. This approach not only mitigates the environmental issues associated with sludge disposal but also supports sustainable construction practices by reusing waste materials. This study concludes that cement-stabilized dredged sediments and water treatment sludges provide an environmentally friendly and effective alternative for use in civil engineering projects.

The rising demand for housing, propelled by population growth, calls for affordable and reliable construction materials. Compressed Stabilized Earth Blocks (CSEB), an environmentally friendly construction material, serves as a potential solution. The clay soil retrieved from the Olifantsfontein Resource Facility, previously unused and occupying valuable space, was repurposed to produce CSEB, aligning with the company's waste reduction commitment. Soil analysis following South African National Standards (SANS) and American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) guidelines, revealing poorly graded sand with silt and clay. River sand was chosen based on particle packing theory to achieve a well graded PSD. Three mixtures with varying clay and river sand proportions, while maintaining a constant cement content of 5%, were prepared. Optimum moisture content was determined through trials with different moisture levels. A compressive strength test, both dry and wet, along with a water absorption test, were conducted to evaluate the brick's performance under variable conditions. Results showed that increasing clay content improved compressive strength, classifying the bricks as load-bearing. The study's compressive strength test results ranged between 3-5 MPa, with dry compressive strength outperforming wet compressive strength. On average, the three mixtures exhibited a water absorption of 11.31%, although mix designs with varying clay content showed different average water contents due to the water-absorption properties of cement and the water-holding capacity of clay. Overall, the findings demonstrate the potential of Olifantsfontein clay as a sustainable construction material for meeting the increasing demand for housing.