Enhancing Structural Integrity of Earthen Blocks through GuarXanthan Synergy

The pursuit of sustainable alternatives to conventional soil stabilizers has gained significant traction in geotechnical engineering, driven by environmental imperatives and the limitations of cementitious materials. This study investigates the efficacy of xanthan gum and guar gum two naturally derived biopolymers as soil stabilizers for enhancing the mechanical behavior and durability of earthen construction materials. Recognizing the shortcomings of untreated soils, particularly their low compressive strength and high moisture sensitivity, the research explores both individual and synergistic applications of these biopolymers through an extensive experimental program. The methodology entailed sourcing fine grained soil from the Budgam region of Kashmir and characterizing its geotechnical properties following standardized Indian protocols. Biopolymer solutions of varying concentrations 0.5–2.0 by dry soil weight were prepared and mixed with the soil. Treated specimens were compacted and subjected to unconfined compressive strength UCS and direct shear tests after curing for 7, 14, and 28 days. The experimental design allowed for comparative evaluation across control, xanthan only, guar only, and blended xanthan guar treatments. Findings revealed a notable enhancement in UCS, cohesion, and internal friction angle across all treated samples, with performance improving progressively with higher polymer concentrations and longer curing durations. The xanthan guar combination at 2.0 concentration yielded a peak UCS of 345 kPa after 28 days over twice that of untreated soil. Compaction tests indicated a marginal reduction in maximum dry density and an increase in optimum moisture content due to the biopolymers water absorbing nature. Shear strength parameters likewise improved, with the blended treatment exhibiting maximum cohesion 65 kPa and friction angle 37.5° , affirming its superior load resistance and structural integrity. Visual inspections corroborated these results, showing reduced shrinkage, minimal surface cracking, and enhanced dimensional stability for biopolymer treated samples. The cross linking between xanthan gum's anionic chains and guar gum's galactomannan backbone was instrumental in forming robust hydrogel matrices, thereby optimizing interparticle bonding and moisture regulation. These molecular interactions underpin the observed mechanical improvements and demonstrate the potential of hybrid biopolymer strategies for addressing the structural deficiencies of earthen materials. The study substantiates the utility of xanthan and guar gums as viable, eco conscious soil stabilizers. The xanthan guar synergy offers a high performance, low carbon alternative suitable for road subgrades, retaining walls, and lightweight masonry. By aligning with principles of green engineering and material circularity, biopolymer stabilization presents a compelling pathway toward resilient and sustainable infrastructure development, particularly in resource constrained or environmentally sensitive regions. Asif Afzal Naik | Preetpal Singh "Enhancing Structural Integrity of Earthen Blocks through GuarXanthan Synergy" Published in International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development (ijtsrd), ISSN: 2456-6470, Volume-9 | Issue-5 , October 2025, URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/papers/ijtsrd98707.pdf Paper URL: https://www.ijtsrd.com/engineering/civil-engineering/98707/enhancing-structural-integrity-of-earthen-blocks-through-guarxanthan-synergy/asif-afzal-naik