Laboratory investigation of dispersivity characteristics and feasibility study of stabilizing dispersive soil using wheat straw protein hydrogel

Niasari Tabrizi, Ali; Esmaeili Falak, Mahzad; Rasouli, Mohammadreza

doi:10.22065/jsce.2025.518834.3705

Laboratory investigation of dispersivity characteristics and feasibility study of stabilizing dispersive soil using wheat straw protein hydrogel

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Ali Niasari Tabrizi ¹

Mahzad Esmaeili Falak ²

Mohammadreza Rasouli ¹

¹ Department of Civil Engineering, NT.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

² Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, North Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.

10.22065/jsce.2025.518834.3705

Abstract

This study focuses on the dispersive behavior of soils in the Jafariyeh Plain (Qom Province) and evaluates the effectiveness of a novel bio-based stabilizer. Geotechnical sampling included disturbed and undisturbed (cubic) specimens collected from three locations. Laboratory tests, including Atterberg limits and sieve analysis, indicated that all samples are classified as ML (low-plasticity silts). Double hydrometer tests showed dispersivity values ranging from 58% to 80%, with sample No. 3 exhibiting the highest dispersivity (79%). Total dissolved solids (TDS) tests revealed solute concentrations between 1200 and 2800 mg/L, with sample No. 3 again showing the highest value. To reduce soil dispersivity, a protein-based hydrogel derived from wheat straw was applied with 2% boric acid as a cross-linker. A 1% hydrogel mix reduced dispersivity below 40%, while a 7% mix decreased it further to 27%, amounting to a 53% reduction. Unconfined shear strength tests showed continuous improvement with both hydrogel content and curing time, rising from 12.8 kg/cm² (1% mix after 3 days) to 33.5 kg/cm² (7% mix after 28 days). These results confirm that the studied soils possess high dispersive potential and that the proposed bio-stabilizer significantly improves both chemical and mechanical properties. The stabilizer’s efficiency, compatibility with the environment, and consistent long-term performance suggest its promising application in geotechnical projects, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. This approach offers an effective and sustainable alternative to conventional chemical stabilizers such as lime, especially in saline or alkaline soil conditions.

Keywords

Dispersivity

Cubic Sampling

Wheat Straw Protein

Field Investigations

Soil Improvement

Subjects

Geotechnical Engineering

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