Bio-mediated improvement process in a reinforced soil with waste paper fiber

Abstract

The effectiveness of using some natural and/or synthetic fibers such as bamboo, jute, steel fibers, polyester fibers, etc. in the soil improvement techniques has been recognized by many researchers. In addition, eco-friendly soil improvement techniques using biomineralization by microorganisms have attracted attention in recent years. This technique improves the mechanical properties of soil by precipitating calcium carbonate between soil particles and adhering the particles. In the current study, the author investigated an effectiveness of using waste paper fiber to suppress liquefaction and a self-healing process based biomineralization by microorganisms. As a result of solidification tests based on column approach, it was revealed that many calcium carbonate minerals are generated on the surface of waste paper fibers and between sand particles, and uniaxial strength is improved.