Abstract
The demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly soil stabilization methods has led to exploring techniques that minimize ecological impact while optimizing engineering properties. Traditional stabilizers like cement and lime, though effective, have significant environmental drawbacks, including high carbon footprint, vegetation disruption, and health risks to workers. This study investigates the efficiency of biopolymer and eggshell powder, as a soil stabilizer, parameters, such as compaction characteristics, unconfined compressive strength (UCS), California bearing ratio (CBR), and micro-structural analysis, were assessed. The research evaluates soil samples treated with varying concentrations of biopolymer (1%, 2%, and 3%) and eggshell powder (4%, 6%, and 8%). Results indicated that biopolymer addition slightly decreased the maximum dry density (MDD) and increased the optimum moisture content (OMC), while eggshell powder slightly increased both MDD and OMC. The optimal mix, S+1%XG+6%ESP, enhanced UCS by 131.29% and CBR by 145.48%. Scanning electron microscope revealed that treated soil samples transformed into a hard solid matrix, demonstrating improved stability. EDX analysis revealed the mineralogical composition of the mixes. Overall, the use of biopolymer and eggshell powder not only enhances soil strength but also promotes environmental sustainability.