Biopolymer-Based Soil Stabilization for Enhanced Mechanical Integrity and Erosion Control in Soft Marine Clays

¹ Department of Civil Engineering, Aarupadai Veedu Institute of Technology, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation, (Deemed to be University), Tamil Nadu, India
² St.Peter's Institute of Higher Education and Research Deemed university, Avadi, Chennai, India.
³ UG Students, Aarupadai Veedu Institute of Technology, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation, (Deemed to be University), Tamil Nadu, India

Published online: 16 April 2026

Abstract

Tillage disrupts the structure of the soil, which speeds up surface runoff and soil erosion. But tillage has consistently resulted in a decrease in soil quality. Soil splashing is another effect of ploughing, where particles splash and obstruct the soil's pores, thereby sealing off the soil's surface and causing inadequate water absorption. The low-lying Kuttanad region includes Vembanad Lake and the marshy land around it. Flood damage is a big problem here since it makes the soil lose its mechanical properties. The movement of microscopic particles from the original ground lowers soil cohesiveness and water retention, hastening soil erosion. Restoring soil internal cohesion is vital for successful and reliable anti-desertification operations. The Kuttanad region is observed for its soft black or grey marine clay soil, with natural water content nearly at the liquid limit.The soil employed in this study was taken from the Pulinkunnu region of Kuttanad, Alappuzha district, Kerala, India, which is characterized by soft marine clay. In this study, we propose treating soil with biopolymers as a way to successfully limit soil erosion and accelerate regeneration, considering engineering and environmental aspects. Biopolymers have the ability to dramatically decrease soil erodibility by enhancing interparticle bonding, even at low concentrations (i.e., 0.5% to 1.5%). Biopolymers like Xanthan Gum and Guar Gum, with their hydrophilic qualities, improve water absorption in soil, resulting in a continuous soil structure with more dense packing. Biopolymer treatment can also improve soil structure and stimulate vegetation development, ultimately recovering deteriorated soil qualities.