Strength and microstructural behaviour of sand Kaolin mixtures stabilized with terrazyme and Xanthan gum

This study evaluates the efficacy of TerraZyme (bioenzyme) and Xanthan Gum (biopolymer) in improving the mechanical behavior of Sand-Kaolin mixtures for sustainable soil stabilization. Sand and 15% Kaolin blend were treated with different additive dosages, and the specimens were evaluated via static triaxial testing under unconsolidated undrained conditions, the results are supported by further microstructural and chemical spectroscopy analyses. The optimum dosages found to be 0.075 mL/kg for TerraZyme and 1% (w/w) Xanthan Gum for increasing the shear strength up to 2.5 times after curing for 30 days. TerraZyme facilitated biochemical interaction, forming cemented bonds between sand particles and Xanthan Gum connected the particles via a polymeric network improving interparticle bonding. The results reveal that the use of bioenzymes and biopolymers in stabilization is an environmentally friendly, low-carbon option for ground improvement compared to that of chemical stabilizers.