The Potential of Alginic Acid and Polygal for Soil Stabilization

Abstract

The potential of two carbohydrate polymers, alginic acid and polygal for soil stabilization is examined in the light of soil gradation, clay mineralogical type and additive type and content. It is found that in line with their strategic occurrences in nature both alginic acid and polygal can improve the strength of (i.e. stabilize) some soils. Their ability to do so increases with the surface activity of the clay mineralogy and best results are achieved with clays which are weathered. However this ability is rapidly lost with soils containing increasing quantities of sand or on immersion of the stabilized soil samples in water at normal atmospheric conditions. The additives are thus best used with soils containing nearly hundred percent clay and the finished products should be protected from direct contact with water. The advantage of polysaccharides over other soil additives is advanced and stressed.