Study on the Effect of Bio-Grouting in Ground Improvement
摘要
Enzyme-induced carbonate precipitation (EICP) has the potential to provide a sustainable alternative to Portland cement for many ground improvement applications. One of the major issues involved in using the water-based EICP treatment solution for grouting is its low viscosity. This reduces the efficiency of injection or percolation as the solution drains off rapidly. Also, the lack of nucleation sites for the crystallization of carbonate at the soil contact points leads to non-uniform calcium carbonate distribution. The use of EICP for grouting in field applications is an area which is not much explored. The proposed study focuses on evaluating the use of the EICP technique as a bio-grout for stabilizing loose sand under an existing structure for the purpose of rehabilitation or underpinning. To retain the EICP treatment solution in the treatment zone for an extended period of time, a biopolymer layer is provided at a depth before the percolation of the EICP solution. Biopolymers, such as sodium alginate and xanthan gum in different percentages by volume, were used for the study. The strength was analyzed in terms of unconfined compressive strength. The application of a 1% sodium alginate solution to create an almost impermeable layer at the bottom, followed by the surface percolation of a 2 M cementation solution mixed with 3 g/L urease meal and 12 g/L non-fat milk powder, proved to be effective.