Durability of sandy soil stabilized with guar gum under wet-dry cycles

This study investigates the use of guar gum, a biopolymer, as an environmentally friendly soil stabilizer to improve the durability of sandy soil. Three types of sandy soils (SP, SW, and SP-SM) were treated with different amounts of guar gum (1%, 2%, and 3%) and were tested through several wetting and drying cycles (2, 4, and 5 cycles). Experimental results revealed a significant reduction in the collapse potential (Cp) from 50% to 71% and an increase in the liquid limit. The collapse rate decreased from 45% to 67% after the second and fifth cycles, respectively at the highest addition rate of 3%. The resistance to environmental changes was also improved. These results highlight the potential of guar gum as a sustainable sand stabilization solution for geotechnical practices and this work offers fresh perspectives on the application of guar gum to stabilise sand in situations involving periodic soaking and drying.