Application of Biopolymers for Enhancing Engineering Properties of Problematic Soils and Industrial Wastes: A Review

Most of the soils and waste materials are proven to be problematic in geotechnical engineering due to shrinkage, collapse, swelling, dispersion, excessive settlement, and low strength; such characteristic behavior of materials hinders their utilization in engineering applications. Stabilization of materials using cement and lime is a widespread practice for the improvement of engineering properties. Due to the negative impacts of these additives on the environment, there is an increasing focus on the use of sustainable and eco-friendly additives for improving the strength or engineering properties. In this study, an attempt is made to review the application of biopolymers on enhancing the engineering properties of problematic soil and waste materials. The study highlights the applicability of biopolymers, future challenges, and research needs. This review shows that biopolymers are promising in strength improvement, reduces permeability, and alleviation of problematic soil and waste material challenges in an environmental and sustainable manner.