Stabilization of Dune Sand with Poly(Methyl Methacrylate) and Polyvinyl Acetate Using Dry and Wet Processing

Abstract

Dune sands were stabilized using poly(methyl methacrylate) and polyvinyl acetate and examined using physical and mechanical tests. The California Bearing Ratio test was used to measure the engineering properties of the stabilized materials under dry and the wet environmental conditions, revealing the bearing ratio of the improved dune sands. Our results indicate that both polymers have good potential for increasing the strength of dune sands in the dry state and that there is little decrease in the CBR strength in the saturated state in comparison with the dry state, indicating the stiffness and stability of the compounds against moisture. This is an important point to consider for longevity of roads and road repair and maintenance, because good strength of stabilized sand in saturated sand can prevent early destruction of the road caused by demolition or erosion of the road bed during saturation. The results also demonstrate that the optimum added quantity of polymer for maximum effect was 3% by weight and that the curing time for maximum effect was 28 days. The amount of polymer added was very more important factor for improved dune sand California Bearing Ratio strength in comparison with curing time of the stabilized specimens.