UTC 2022 Funding - Cycle 2 Research Projects

Project Number: CY2-LTU-02
Project Title: Soil Stabilization Using One-Part Geopolymer: A Sustainable Approach for Enhanced Durability and Performance
Performing Institution: Louisiana Tech University
Principal Investigator: John Matthews and Hussain Shaik
Proposed Start and End Date: 10/01/2024 to 09/30/2025
Project Description: Soil stabilization is a way of improving the physical properties of soil to ensure the stability and longevity of soil. Traditional soil stabilization methods commonly employ materials like Portland cement and lime. However, these conventional stabilizers have significant environmental drawbacks. In response to these challenges, the exploration of alternative, sustainable stabilization agents have gained considerable interest. One such promising alternative is the use of geopolymers. Geopolymers are inorganic polymers formed through the activation of aluminosilicate materials with alkaline solutions. Unlike traditional cement, geopolymers utilize industrial by-products such as fly ash, slag, and metakaolin as their primary raw materials, which are abundantly available and often considered waste. The geopolymerization process involves the chemical reaction of these materials with an alkali activator, resulting in a hardened binder with superior mechanical and chemical properties.

The goal of the present study is to use one-part ready-to-use solid geopolymer which needs only water to activate and eradicate the necessity for handling hazardous liquid alkaline activators. This research aims to evaluate one-part geopolymers as an innovative and sustainable solution for soil stabilization. By addressing the technical, environmental, and economic aspects, this study seeks to establish a comprehensive understanding of the potential benefits and practical application of geopolymers in enhancing soil properties for construction purposes.
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