Influence of Bio-enzyme on Compaction and Strength Characteristics of Black Cotton Soil in Nagpur (Maharashtra)

Soil stabilization is an effective method for increasing the strength and durability of expansive soils like the black cotton soil. The process involved in the soil stabilization should be such that the end product becomes easily workable and environment-friendly. A bio-enzyme named TerraZyme proves to be a good option for this issue as it is naturally made, safe, bio-degradable liquid which significantly enhances the strength of soil by diminishing the size of voids. It improves the compaction of soil with minimal compactive efforts and its effect is long lasting. This paper presents an experimental investigation on the stabilization of black cotton soil using TerraZyme. The dosages of TerraZyme were taken from 200 to 600 ml/m3 of soil and the tests were conducted after 28 days of curing. It is observed that the OMC decreases and the MDD increases with the increase of TerraZyme content. The UCS value increases initially and then starts decreasing after reaching a peak value as the dosage of TerraZyme has been increased. From these observations, an optimum amount of TerraZyme content is worked out for black cotton soils. This optimum enzyme dosage is supported or validated by the FESEM images of treated and untreated soils.