Soil Stabilization Using Eco-Friendly Additives
Abstract
Soil stabilization is an important geotechnical process used to improve weak or problematic soils for construction purposes. Traditional methods rely on additives like cement, lime, and bitumen, which, despite their effectiveness, contribute to high energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and environmental degradation. In response, eco-friendly soil stabilization techniques have gained attention. These methods use sustainable materials such as industrial by-products (fly ash, GGBS), agricultural wastes (rice husk ash, bagasse ash), natural fibers (coir, jute), biopolymers, and microbial agents (MICP). These additives enhance soil strength, durability, and resistance through mechanisms like pozzolanic reactions, reinforcement, bio-cementation, and microstructural improvement. The study reviews classifications of these materials, stabilization methods, testing procedures, and performance evaluation. Compared to conventional methods, eco-friendly approaches show significant improvements in strength, CBR, durability, and moisture resistance, while also promoting waste utilization and environmental sustainability. Overall, green soil stabilization offers a cost-effective, sustainable, and technically viable solution for modern geotechnical applications, particularly in pavements, embankments, and low-volume roads.