Sand stabilization using waste plastics

Abstract

A study on the possible use of melted waste thermoplastics to stabilize soils, and produce plastic-soil structural composites is presented. Specifically, the effects of melted thermoplastics on the shear strength, and creep characteristics of sands are examined. An extensive experimental program was conducted to examine the strength and creep characteristics of different plastic-sand compositions. It was found that increasing plastic content in the sand results in stronger, and stiffer soils with negligible creep deformations for loads which are at least 50% of the strength of the composite. It is expected that injection of melted waste thermoplastics in sands can improve significantly the engineering characteristics of foundation, and slope stability of sands. Other potential applications include construction of structural elements, bricks, etc.