In the quest for sustainable construction practices, a groundbreaking study led by Haspina Sulaiman from the Department of Civil Engineering at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) has unveiled a promising eco-friendly solution for stabilizing peat soil. Published in the journal “Disaster in Civil Engineering and Architecture,” the research explores the use of xanthan gum, a biodegradable biopolymer, as an alternative to traditional soil stabilizers like cement and lime.
Peat soil, known for its high moisture content and low strength, poses significant challenges in construction, particularly in the energy sector where stable foundations are crucial for infrastructure development. Traditional stabilization methods, while effective, come with a substantial environmental cost due to high carbon emissions.
Sulaiman’s study investigates the potential of xanthan gum to address these issues. “We were particularly interested in xanthan gum because of its biodegradable nature and its potential to improve soil properties without harming the environment,” Sulaiman explained.
The research involved a series of laboratory experiments to evaluate the impact of xanthan gum on peat soil properties. Three concentrations of xanthan gum (0%, 2%, and 4% by weight) were tested. The results were promising: xanthan gum significantly reduced moisture content, with a decrease from 135.42% in untreated soil to 39.5% at 4% concentration. The liquid limit and plastic limit increased, indicating enhanced soil cohesion and workability. Compaction tests revealed that while 2% xanthan gum resulted in lower dry density, 4% xanthan gum improved compaction efficiency.
The implications for the energy sector are substantial. Stable soil foundations are essential for the construction of power plants, wind farms, and other energy infrastructure. The use of xanthan gum could provide a sustainable solution, reducing the environmental impact of construction activities while ensuring the stability and longevity of structures.
“This research opens up new possibilities for sustainable geotechnical engineering,” Sulaiman noted. “By using biodegradable materials like xanthan gum, we can reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.”
However, the study also highlights the need for further research. Long-term durability under environmental variations, large-scale field applications, and hybrid stabilization techniques are areas that require further investigation. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the demand for sustainable construction practices will only grow. This research could shape future developments in the field, paving the way for more eco-friendly and efficient construction methods.
Published in the journal “Disaster in Civil Engineering and Architecture,” which translates to “Disaster in Civil Engineering and Architecture,” the study represents a significant step forward in the quest for sustainable construction practices. As the energy sector seeks to balance development with environmental responsibility, the use of xanthan gum in soil stabilization offers a promising solution.