CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

Soil stabilization means altering the soil properties by different ways and

means, mechanical or chemical to develop improved soil material which has all the

intended engineering properties. Stabilization to the soil reduces permeability,

compressibility and increases shear strength, bearing capacity. It is mainly used to

improve the properties of soil using in constructing highways and airfields. An

enzyme, as per its definition is an organic catalyst that speeds up a chemical reaction

without becoming a part of the end product as the otherwise would happen at the

much slower rate. A very small amount of bio-enzyme is required for soil stabilization

as neither have they become the part of end product nor they’re consumed by the

reaction.

If conditions are contributory to the reaction then only this organic molecule

catalyses a chemical reaction. For an enzyme to be workable in a soil, it needs to have

movability so as to reach the site of action. This movability of the enzyme molecules

is attained with the help of the pore fluid that is already present in the soil. This pore

fluid also provides the specific soil science and time are needed by the enzyme to

diffusion into the reaction site. Until and unless there are no more reactions to

catalyse, an enzyme will be operational in the soil. The enzyme is customized in such

a manner that it advances a chemical reaction within or between other molecules.

However, there’s no effect on enzymes because of these reactions. The host for other

molecules, Bio enzyme, greatly enhances the rate of normal chemical and physical

reactions. The soil materials become more easily wet and more densely compacted

with the effect of bio-enzyme. It creates a more permanent structure by improving the

chemical bonding between soil particles that are more resistant to weathering, water

1
penetration and wear and tear. Enzyme’s role mainly emphasizes strength,

performance and higher resistance towards deformation. Its application requires

dilution in water before it can be applied to the soil. The use of Terrazyme enhances

the load bearing capacity of the soil. They have the ability to change the connective

substance and texture of the soil so that after compaction the soil loses its ability to

reabsorb water. Also, the mechanical benefits of compaction are not lost even after

water is reapplied to the newly compacted soil.

Chemical stabilization is completed by adding chemical additives to the soil

that physically combines with soil particles and alter the geotechnical properties of

soil. Enzymes enhance the soil properties and supply higher soil compaction and

strength. Terrazyme is non-harmful, non corrosive and flammable liquid which might

be simply mixed with water at the optimum wet content. The chemical bonding of the

soil particles is accrued by the employment of Terrazyme and a permanent structure is

created that is proof against wear and tear, weathering and infiltration of water in soil.

Aside from up strength of soil this bio protein replaces the necessity of granular base

and sub base. Terrazyme indefinite quantity entirely depends on the kind of soil, clay

content and malleability index of soil.

1.1 SOIL STABILIZATION

Soil stabilization is the alteration of one or more soil properties, by

mechanical or chemical means, to create an improved soil material possessing the

desired engineering properties. Soils may be stabilized to increase strength and

durability or to prevent erosion and dust generation. Regardless of the purpose for

stabilization, the desired result is the creation of a soil material or soil system that will

remain in place under the design use conditions for the design life of the project.

There are various methods for soil stabilization like mechanical stabilization, cement

2
stabilization, lime stabilization, bituminous stabilization, chemical stabilization,

thermal stabilization, electrical stabilization, stabilization by grouting etc. In clay

water mixture positively charged ions (cat-ions) are present around the clay particles,

creating a film of water around the clay particles that remains attached or adsorbed on

the clay surface. The adsorbed water or double layer gives clay particles their

plasticity. In some cases the clay can swell and the size of double layer increases, but

it can be reduced by drying. Therefore, to truly improve the soil properties, it is

necessary to permanently reduce the thickness of double layer. Cat-ion exchange

processes can accomplish this. By utilizing fermentation processes specific micro

organisms can produce stabilizing enzyme in large quantity. The soil stabilizing

enzymes catalyse the reactions between the clay and the organic cat-ions that

accelerate the cat-ionic exchange without becoming part of the end product.

Figure 1.1 Bio-Enzyme (Terrazyme) replaces adsorbed water with organic cat-ions,

thus neutralizing the negative charge on a clay particle.

1.2 ENZYME SOIL STABILIZATION

Enzymes have a catalytic effect for the stabilization of the soil. The mobility

of the enzymes depends on the pore fluid that enables them to be transported to any

given reaction site in the soil. On reaching the specific reaction site, the enzymes are

adsorbed by the clay lattice and are released upon the exchange of cations. Thus in

theory, the enzymes are active in a soil until there is no more reactions exist to

catalyze. Thus they are required in small dosages for stabilization purposes. Also

3
proposed that the enzymes could bond with large organic molecules that would be

attracted to the clay minerals’ net negative surface charge. The large organic

molecules would then surround the clay minerals, neutralizing the negative charge

and reducing the clay’s affinity for moisture. The end result of both proposed

mechanisms is a more stable clay lattice structure and a reduced affinity for moisture.

Terrazyme is specially formulated to modify the engineering properties of soil.

They require dilution in water before application. Terrazyme acts to reduce the voids

between soil particles and minimize absorbed water in the soil for maximum

compaction. This decreases the swelling capacity of the soil particles and reduces

permeability. The application of Terrazyme enhances weather resistance and increases

load bearing capacity of soils.

1.3 OBJECTIVES

1. To characterize the effect of Terrazyme on the soil.

2. To study the effect of varying dosages of Terrazyme on strength and other

characteristics of identified soils.

3. To find out optimum Terrazyme dosage required for selected soils.

4. To compare the results obtained from the enzyme with virgin soil.

1.4 SCOPES

In this study, one Bio-Enzyme was considered which was acidic in nature.

Three dosages of enzyme were prepared as follows: 200ml/1.5m³, 200ml/1m³ and

200ml/0.5m³. Another sample of virgin soil is also been taken. The dry densities and

optimum moisture content of these soils are determined. For the improvement of the

soil properties, each soil is treated with different dosages of Bio-enzyme and the

properties were evaluated after subjecting the samples to 0, 7, 14, 21, 28 days curing

in desiccators.

4
 CHAPTER 2

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 INTRODUCTION

Engineers are often faced with the complication of constructing facilities on or

with soils, which do not possess adequate strength to bear the loads imposed upon

during construction or during the service life of the structure. Many areas of India

composed of soils with high silt contents, low strengths and minimum bearing

capacity. For effective performance of structures constructed on such soils, the

performance characteristics of such soils require to be improved. The choice of a

specific method depends generally on the type of soil to be improved, its properties

and the type and extent of improvement required in a particular application. Lately

bio-enzymes have emerged as a new chemical for soil stabilization. Bio-enzymes are

chemical, organic, and liquid concentrated substances which are utilized to enhance

the stability of soil sub-grade for pavement structures. Bio-Enzyme is advantageous to

use, safe, effectual and dramatically upgrades road quality. Stabilization of soils is an

efficacious process for enhancing the properties of soil and pavement system

performance. The aims of any stabilization technique used are to increase the strength

and stiffness of soil, enhance workability and constructability of the soil and decrease

the Plasticity Index. For any given soil numerous stabilization methods, using

different stabilizing agents, may be effectual to enhance the soil properties in-place

rather than removing and replacing the material. Availability or economic

considerations may be the determining factor on which a stabilizing agent is chosen.

 Sandeep Panchal et al (2017): In this study different type of geotechnical tests

were performed on the soil sample under study with and without enzyme.

5
 Consistency limits, dry density and CBR values of a local soil sample by

mixing different dosages of Terrazyme with different curing periods showed

great improvement. The duration of treating bio-enzyme on the local soil

played an important role in the improvement of strength. The CBR value with

the third dosage having two week curing period showed great outcome and

percentage increase as compared to local soil sample without Terrazyme is

131.49%.

 Hitam and Yusof et al (1998) conducted field studies on improvement of

plantation roads by treating Terrazyme to 27.2 km of the road, which was

having serious problems during monsoon. After two monsoon seasons the

road was found to be in very good condition in spite of immense exposure to

heavy rainfall. No surface damage was observed, thus demanding no repair

works to the road section.

 Venika Saini et al (2015): In this work, the performance of Bio-Enzymatic soil

has been scrutinized. From the results obtained by the tests conducted on the

soil, the following observations were made. Bio Enzymes are organic, non-

toxic and biodegradable in nature. The end products obtained by usage of

Terrazyme are biodegradable in nature and their effect is perpetual. The initial

cost for the application of Terrazyme maybe high as compared to other

traditional proposals but the benefit of using Terrazyme such as the zero

maintenance cost and long durability makes this approach economically cost

effective.

 PriyankaShaka et al (2016): Based on IS classification, red soil is classified as

Clayey sand and the black cotton soil as highly compressible clay. Laboratory

testing showed that decrease in liquid limit and plasticity index was observed

6
 with the increase in dosages of Terrazyme. Also, the Terrazyme dosage of

200ml/0.75m3 of dry soil garnered the best result. Further increase in the

dosage does not alter the plasticity characteristics of soils substantially. CBR

Value of the soil sample was increased by 2.75%. 3.345%. 3.47% and 3.56%

by application of the bio-enzyme with a dosage of 200ml/0.75m3. With

further increase in the dosage of the enzyme, no substantial increase was

recorded.

 Puneet and Suneet et al (2014) studied the effect of terrazyme on the UCS

strength of Black Cotton soil. Stabilization of the soil using Terrazyme

resulted in significant increase in the Unconfined Compressive Strength of the

Black Cotton Soil up to 200%. Duration of treatment of soil with Terrazyme

played a vital role in improvement of strength and soil treated with Terrazyme

for 7 days gives higher strength. The optimum dosage of Terrazyme for

improvement of UCS of Black Cotton soil was 1ml/per 5kg of soil.

7
 CHAPTER 3
MATERIALS USED

3.1 BLACK COTTON SOIL

Black cotton soil (BC soil) is a highly clayey soil. The black color in Black

cotton soil (BC soil) is due to the presence of titanium oxide in small concentration.

The Black cotton soil (BC soil) has a high percentage of clay, which is predominantly

montmorillonite in structure and black or blackish grey in color. Expansive soils are

the soils which expand when the moisture content of the soils is increased. The clay

mineral montmorillonite is mainly responsible for expansive characteristics of the

soil. The expansive soils are also called swelling soils or black cotton soils.

Table 3.1 Properties of Black Cotton Soil

Properties Black Cotton Soil

Color Black
Specific gravity 2.62
Grain Size Distribution
Fine Sand Fraction (%) 14.8
Silt Size (%) 63.6
Clay Size (%) 21.6
Atterberg’s Limit
Liquid Limit (%) 76
Plastic Limit (%) 32
Plasticity Index (%) 44
Shrinkage Limit (%) 8
IS Soil classification CH
Compaction Characteristics
Maximum Dry Density (kN/m3) 13.5
Optimum Moisture Content (%) 30
Unconfined Compressive Strength (kPa) 147
California Bearing Ratio (unsoaked) (%) 3

8
 Figure 3.1 Soil used for investigation

3.2 TERRAZYME

TerraZyme is a liquid enzyme which is organic in nature and is formulated

from the vegetable and fruit extract. It improves the quality of soil like CBR,

durability and decreases the OMC, plasticity index of soil. The effect of TerraZyme

on soil is permanent and the soil becomes bio degradable in nature. The reason behind

the improvement of soil properties is the cat ion- ion exchange capacity of the clay.

Friction among the soil particles increases as the water is expelled out from the soil.

Terrazyme forms a protective coating around the clay particles and thereby making

clay particles water repellent. These organic enzymes come in liquid form and are

perfectly soluble in water, brown in color and smells like molasses. Irritation in eyes

may be caused by TerraZyme sometimes but the handling of this enzyme is easy i.e.,

masks and gloves are not required. Dosage of TerraZyme is of utmost importance, if

less amount of TerraZyme is mixed with soil the effects will not be satisfying which

means soil will achieve less stability and if TerraZyme is overdosed it will result in

the higher cost and stabilization will become ineffective. In order to find out the

9
optimum dose of TerraZyme in particular soil series of CBR test is performed on each

sample with different amount of TerraZyme.

The treated soil becomes water resistant and also resists deformation. The benefits of

mechanical compaction do not degrade even after reapplication of water. These

features are remarkably evident in fine-grained soils as the terrazyme mainly reacts

with the clay particles. In road construction the use of terrazyme eliminates the need

of granular base and granular sub base, therefore making it a popular practice all over

the world.

3.2.1 Advantages of TerraZyme

 As the strength and stiffness of the soil is raised by adding TerraZyme to soil

maintenance price gets reduced by thirty to fifty the concerns.

 It decreases the plastic characteristic of soil. Pavement thickness is reduced by

thirty to fiftieth.

 Construction time is reduced by fifty the concerns.

 TerraZyme improves load bearing capability of soil.

 TerraZyme increases the durability of pavement and reduces swelling

properties of soil.

3.2.2 Properties of TerraZyme

 It is an organic liquid developed from vegetable extracts.

 Temperature shall be maintained at fifty five degree Celsius otherwise

TerraZyme loses its properties.

 This organic liquid is stable in nature and also the risk of decay is negligible.

 It's needed to dilute TerraZyme with water before application.

 The aroma of TerraZyme has no harmful impact.

10
 Table 3.2 Properties Of Terrazyme

Properties Values

Specific gravity 1.05

pH value 3.50

Appearance / odour Dark brown Non-obnoxious

Total dissolved solids 19.7ppm

Cation exchange capacity 3.87%

Hazardous content None

Boiling point 212˚F

Evaporation Rate Same as water

Solubility in water Complete

Melting point Liquid

Reactivity data Stable

Figure 3.2 Bio-Enzymes (TerraZyme)

11
3.2.3 Benefits of Terrazyme

 TerraZyme will increase the sturdiness of pavement and reduces swelling

properties of soil.

 Reduces construction price by concerning 20-40% because of reduction within

the transportation of materials and employ of onsite materials.

 The utilization of TerraZyme enhances weather resistance and improves load

bearing capability of soils.

12
 CHAPTER 4
METHODOLOGY

The total study is carried out in two stages. In the first stage the soil

characterization is done. In the second stage, Terrazyme is added to the soil in two

dosages, 0.05% and 0.1% and studies are conducted. Tests are conducted with soil

alone as well as soil stabilized with terrazyme containing different dosages. The soil is

oven dried and pulverized then mixed with the desired amount of terrazyme. Water is

added to the mixture and mixed until it becomes homogenous. The laboratory tests

carried out on the natural soil include particle size distribution as per IS: 1498-1970,

Specific Gravity as per IS: 2720 Part III section 1-1980, Atterbergs limits test as per

IS: 2720-part V 1985, Compaction test as per IS: 2720 part VII-1980, Unconfined

compressive strength test as per IS:2720-part X. CBR tests as per IS: 2720 part XVI.

Unconfined compression tests are conducted on soil and terrazyme mixes compacted

at their respective maximum dry density (MDD) and optimum moisture content

(OMC).

4.1 MECHANISM OF STABILIZATION

Terrazyme reacts with absorbed water layer of clay particle and causes

reduction within the thickness around particle of soil, this end in the reduction of

voids between the particles of soil, thereby giving soil particle a more in-depth

orientation with low compaction. This ultimately ends up in the decrease in swelling

capability of soil and it conjointly reduces porosity of soil. This decreases the swelling

capacity of the soil particles and also reduces permeability.

4.2 ENZYME DOSAGE CALCULATION

Varying dosages of the enzyme have different effects on the same soil, arriving at

optimal dosage of Terrazyme would be beneficial. Insufficient quantity of enzyme

13
would not yield effective stabilization, while higher quantities may prove to have

adverse effects on soil. Researchers in the past have tried to understand the

applicability of enzyme with different soil types. Successful stabilization could be

achieved with as little as 2 percent clay, and the best result would to achieve for soils

having clay with 10-15 percent. Issac et al. [2003] has found that Terrazyme was

found useful in improving CBR properties for clays and sands, while it was found to

be less significant for silty soils. Manoj et al. (2003), assessed the suitability of soil

stabilizer on five types of soils with varying clay content and found that soils with

moderate to high clay content has improved stabilization effect. In order to arrive at

the optimum dosage of Terrazyme based on the physical properties and strength

characteristics of the natural soil used in the present study, the following dosages

presented in Table 4.1 were considered. In the following section, details of the

experimental programme planned for evaluating the physical properties and strength

characteristics is presented.

The Enzyme Dosages assumed for Black cotton soil was 200 ml for bulk volume 3.5

m³ to 1.5 m3 of soil.

Bulk Density of BC soil = 1.56 g/cc

Bulk Density = Weight / Volume

Weight = Bulk Density x Volume

For Dosage 1

200 ml for 3.0 m³ of soil = 1.56 x 3.0 x 1000 = 4680 kg of soil

For 1 kg = 0.042 ml of Enzyme

For Dosage 2

200 ml for 2.5 m³ of soil = 1.56 x 2.5x 1000 =3900 kg of soil

For 1 kg = 0.051 ml of Enzyme

14
For Dosage 3

200 ml for 2.0 m³ of soil = 1.56 x 2.0 x 1000 = 3120 kg of soil

For 1 kg = 0.064 ml of Enzyme

For Dosage 4

200 ml for1.5 m³ of soil = 1.56 x 1.5 x 1000 = 2340 kg of soil

For 1 kg = 0.085 ml of Enzyme.

Table 4.1 Enzyme Dosages

Dosage 200 ml/m³ of Soil ml/kg of Soil

1 3.0 0.042

2 2.5 0.051

3 2.0 0.064

4 1.5 0.085

15
 CHAPTER 5

MECHANISM

5.1 MECHANISM OF TERRAZYME

Soil (clay) particle is surrounded by a negatively charged layer making the

particle prone to combine with positive charge in order to neutralize. It is found that

the absorbed water layer on soil contains sufficient positive metals like Na, K, Al, Mg

etc becoming the reason of the bond between the negative clay particles and water

molecules. Thus a significant water layer is created around the soil particles. In order

to attain permanent compaction it is necessary to decrease or eliminate this water

layer. This is exactly what terrazyme does. Terrazyme reduces the electric charge in

water molecule, thus creating enough pressure on the positive metal ions to release in

free water. This breaks the electrostatic potential barrier thereby reducing the

absorbed water layer. Thus the soil particles come closer and attain greater

compaction with lower compactive effort.

Figure 5.1 Mechanism of terrazyme

16
5.2 EFFECT OF TERRAZYME
Effect of Terrazyme is different for different types of soils and varying

dosages. Some general changes on several properties of soil after the addition of

diluted Terrazyme are listed below:

CBR:

CBR is California Bearing Ratio, defined as the ratio of force per unit area

required to penetrate a soil mass with standard circular piston to that requires for the

corresponding penetration of standard material. This test is usually needed to

determine the sub-grade strength of the soil in pavements. With the addition of

terrazyme a significant increase in the values of both soaked and unsoaked CBR

samples is seen. This is because of the increased compaction which creates a stronger

bond between the soil particles, helping them to resist penetration more appreciably.

Also with the increase in curing period of samples with terrazyme it is seen that the

CBR value increases, indicating more strength provided by the soil with time.

UCS:

It stands for unconfined compressive strength.UCS is the maximum axial

compressive stress a right. It stands for unconfined compressive strength. UCS is the

maximum axial compressive stress a right cylindrical sample of soil or any other

material can withstand under unconfined (confining stress is zero) conditions. UCS

test basically gives the strength of the soil so to determine the effect of terrazyme it is

necessary to know the changes on UCS. After performing various tests on different

types of soils it is seen that with the addition of terrazyme there is an increase in the

unconfined compressive strength of soil to a great extent. In some cases UCS has

increased as much as 200% making the enzyme an ideal solution for soil stabilization.

17
Consistency limits:

The water content at which the soil changes its state is known as consistency

limits. The water content at which the soil changes its state from liquid to plastic is

known as liquid limit, and when it changes its state from plastic to semisolid it is

known as plastic limit. It is seen that with the addition of terrazyme both the liquid

and plastic limits decreases signifying the denseness of the soil. As the soil particles

come closer after enzyme action, the soil changes its state at lower water content.

Compaction:

The densification of soil with the help of mechanical force is known as

compaction. For compaction Standard Proctor Test is performed in laboratories. In

this test optimal moisture content at maximum dry density for the given soil is

determined. It is seen that after the addition of terrazyme the OMC decreases and

maximum dry density increases for the given soil. It indicates that the voids between

the soil particles have decreases and the soil has achieved greater compaction at

minimal compactive effort.

Permeability:

Permeability is the property of soil to allow easy flow of water through the

interconnected voids of soil. It is seen that the permeability of terrazyme treated soil

decreases noticeably. It is due to the decrease in the voids after enzyme action thereby

not letting the water to flow easily through soil.

Density:

Density of soil is defined as the amount of mass per unit volume of soil. As

the main objective of terrazyme is to reduce the voids, it is obvious that density of soil

18
will increase after enzyme action. As the density increases, compaction increases

thereby increasing the strength of soil.

5.3 TESTS CONDUCTED ARE

 Specific gravity

 Practical size distribution

 Atterberg Limits

 Compaction test

 Unconfined compression test

 California Bearing Ratio

19
 CHAPTER 6

TESTS PERFORMED AND RESULTS

The material which was used in the test is black cotton soil. To find out the

suitability of TerraZyme on soil laboratory test were performed. The dosage of

TerraZyme is decided on the basis of type of soil. To study the variation of

geotechnical properties of local soil we have taken 3m3 per 200ml, 2.5 m3 per 200ml,

2.0m3 per 200ml and 1.5m3 per 200ml. The prefatory tests were performed on the

local soil with and without TerraZyme. The experimental analysis was carried out by

taking dosage and curing time into consideration. The soil was crushed prior to tests

and TerraZyme is mixed in different quantity for differ time period. Atterberg’s limit

test as per (IS: 2720, Part V-1985), Standard proctor test as per (IS: 2720, Part VII-

1980), Grain size analysis (IS: 2720 Part IV -1985), Specific gravity analysis (IS:

2720, Part III -1980) ,California bearing ratio test (IS: 2720, Part XVI-1987) were

performed on the soil in laboratory. According to ‘Indian Standard Soil Classification

System ’, local soil was categorized as clay ‘SM’ type.

6.1 SPECIFIC GRAVITY

Specific gravity G is the ratio of unit weight of soil to unit weight of distilled

water at 4 °centigrade. Specific gravity of soil is required for the calculation of unit

weight, degree of saturation; water content etc .The unit weight is ultimately used for

determining the settlement, pressure and stability problem. Table 6.1 shows the results

of specific gravity of soil with TerraZyme in different dosage and for different time

period. Initial specific gravity of soil sample was found to be 2.53.

20
 Table 6.1 Specific Gravity test result

6.2 ATTERBERG LIMITS TEST

Consistency limits are the boundary water content at which the soil undergoes

from one state to another. Liquid limit test, plastic limit test and plasticity index falls

under the category of consistency limit test. The initial liquid limit was 27%, plastic

limit was 23.21% and plasticity index 3.79% without TerraZyme. Table 6.2 shows the

result of consistency limits at different dosage of TerraZyme and for different

duration. The enzyme treated soil sample’s consistency limits were tested

immediately after the mixing. The mix becomes very stiff after weeks of curing.

6.2.1 Liquid limit

Liquid limit is defined as the moisture content at which soil begins to behave

as a liquid material and begins to flow. The importance of the liquid limit test is to

classify soils. Different soils have varying liquid limits. Also, once must use the

plastic limit to determine its plasticity index.

6.2.2 Plastic limit

Plastic limit is defined as the projects moisture content and expressed as

percentages of the project of the oven dried soil at which the soil can be rolled into the

threads one-eight inch in a diameter without the soil breaking into pieces. This is also

the moisture content of a solid at which a soil changes from a plastic state to a semi

solid state.

21
 Table 6.2 Consistency limits of stabilized black cotton soil

Dosage Enzyme Liquid limit Plastic limit Plasticity

number dosage (%) (%) index

0 Un treated 61.40 34.00 27.40

1 200 ml/3.0 m3 60.22 33.50 26.72

2 200 ml/2.5 m3 59.00 32.79 26.21

3 200 ml/2.0 m3 57.75 32.23 25.52

4 200 ml/1.5 m3 56.49 31.70 24.79

Figure 6.1 Consistency Vs enzyme dosage

22
6.3 STANDARD PROCTOR TEST

For determining the optimum moisture content and maximum dry density of

the soil standard proctor test was conducted at laboratory .With the variable dosage of

TerraZyme OMC and MDD were calculated for one and two week of curing. The

OMC and MDD of soil without TerraZyme were found to be 17.9 % and 17kN/m3.

The effect of different dosage of TerraZyme on OMC and MDD of soil is shown in

table 6.3. The increase in MDD with different dosages of Terrazyme is uniform till

the final dosage 200ml/1.5m3. This trend happens due to the formation of transitional

compounds that had higher densities in the range of 3rd -4th enzyme dosage.

Table 6.3 OMC and MDD of stabilized Black Cotton soil

Dosage No. Enzyme Dosages OMC (%) MDD (gm/cm³)

0 Un treated 23 1.486

1 200 ml/3.0 m3 22.40 1.521

2 200 ml/2.5 m3 22.1 1.564

3 200 ml/2.0 m3 21.00 1.590

4 200 ml/1.5 m3 20.4 1.633

Figure 6.2 Variation on OMC with addition of Enzyme

23
 Figure 6.3 Variation graph of MDD values with different dosages of enzyme

6.4 UNCONFINED COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH (UCS) TEST

Unconfined compression strength of black cotton soil was evaluated by stabilization

with variable dosages of enzyme for 0, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days curing. The specimens

were prepared and kept in desiccators to retain the moisture of the sample so that

reaction between soil particle and enzyme may be continued. Number of samples

were tested with different dosage of enzyme ie 200ml for 3, 2.5, 2, 1.5m3 of soil. The

test results are summarized in table 6.4

Table 6.4 UCS value of BC soil with varying enzyme dosage & curing time

Dosage Dosages UCS (KPa)

No.

0 day 7 days curing 14days curing 21days curing 28days curing

curing

0 Un treated 3.53 3.78 4.05 4.21 4.63

1 200 ml/3.0 m3 4.00 5.10 5.75 6.17 6.92

2 200 ml/2.5 m3 4.64 5.55 6.37 7.10 7.74

3 200 ml/2.0 m3 5.20 6.41 7.00 7.82 8.63

4 200 ml/1.5 m3 5.27 6.64 7.27 7.95 8.86

24
 Figure 6.4 Percentage Increment in UCS

Figure 6.5 Variation of UCS for different curing period on expansive clayey soil

6.5 CALIFORNIA BEARING RATIO (CBR) TEST

Black cotton soil was treated with 4 dosage of enzyme (Terrazyme) at

optimum moisture content 23%. CBR moulds were prepared with different dosages

by standard proctor method and kept by covering plastic bags for testing on different

25
days. Later for soaked conditions moulds were kept in water condition for 4days and

then tested for CBR. The soaked CBR values of black cotton soil with different

enzyme dosages in various curing days are given in table 6.5.

Table 6.5 CBR test of BC soil with varying enzyme dosage and curing time

Dosage Soil Enzyme Curing

No. Dosage Period

0 day 7 days 14 days 21 days 28 days

0 Un treated 1.19%

1 200 ml/3.0 m3 1.20 1.32 2.40 3.70 5.21

2 200 ml/2.5 m3 1.22 1.67 2.59 3.83 5.40

3 200 ml/2.0 m3 1.23 1.93 2.91 3.97 5.63

4 200 ml/1.5 m3 1.25 2.00 3.12 4.21 5.80

Figure 6.6 Percentage Increment in CBR

26
Figure 6.7 Variation of CBR for different dosage & curing period

27
 CHAPTER 7

APPLICATION OF TERRAZYME

7.1 SOIL TYPES & TERRAZYME PERFORMANCE IN IT

7.1.1 Highly plastic soils:

Often containing higher percentages of clay and exhibiting gradation that is

fine grained and CBR values well below the range useful for road construction. In

spite of generally these soils show higher plasticity index (PI) (above 20%) they

usually show the greatest increase in CBR from TerraZyme treatment. The ability of

TerraZyme treatment to raise very low CBR values e.g. 0.5%-5% shown by some

types of these soils, to stabilized values little greater than 10 % may often not be

sufficient to make the treated material attractive for road construction without the

addition of sand or gravel. Low strength, highly plastic soils are suitable for

TerraZyme treatment when combined with coarse, structural, material. The

combination of adding structural material and treating with TerraZyme may yield a

CBR value that would be adequate to improve sub-grades that are not in themselves

an acceptable foundation for road structures. With the improvement of materials

locally available, TerraZyme may prove to be an economically viable alternative to

removal of the low-strength or highly plastic soil.

7.1.2 Moderately plastic soils:

Often containing coarse and fines grains like gravel, sand and clay, can exhibit

fairly acceptable initial CBR values of between 10% to 30%. Moderate PI (between

8%-15%) makes these soils excellent candidates for stabilization as the treated CBR

values can reach well into the normally specified ranges for improved sub-grade, sub-

base and base layers. These soils may be evaluated and used as found or they may be

28
mixed with other soil (e.g. granular) with the view of creating an improved material

for road use. TerraZyme dosage of these soils will depend upon the level of plasticity

exhibited and the desired characteristics of the final stabilized material. Dosage

evaluations will also yield vital economic information useful in determining final road

design using TerraZyme stabilization of the sub-grade, sub-base or base layers.

7.1.3 Non-plastic soils:

Non-plastic or marginally plastic granular soils often containing higher

percentages of gravel and/or sand and showing high initial CBR values of 60% to

100%, they should also exhibit increases in CBR from treatment with TerraZyme.

When appropriate percentage of clay (10%-20%) exists or is added these increases are

substantial. The increases provided by TerraZyme may be sufficient to economically

avoid the importation of more expensive soils from selected borrow pits. Granular

soils of higher strength should be tested in the event that a moderate increase in CBR

% will make them suitable for use in the sub-grade, sub-base or base layers of the

road structure. These soils are also candidates for economically viable stabilization

where it is desirable to reduce granular material loss on un-surfaced roads.

7.2 EXPERIMENTAL STUDY IN INDIA

In India TerraZyme has been used to construct a state highway on black cotton

soil in Nasik, Maharashtra. Some trial roads are also constructed in states of Tamil-

Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka. In Maharashtra, Public works Department has

constructed two roads using TerraZyme and a cost reduction of 18-26% is reported. It

is reported that Central Road Research Institute, India, conducted laboratory tests on

three types of soil- Marine clay, Cuddalore soil and Pondicherry soil treated with

organic bio enzyme liquid stabilizer. The soil samples were tested for CBR,

Unconfined compression strength, swelling index and indirect tensile strength. It is

29
reported that there was significant improvement in CBR value after four weeks of

curing from 1.2% to 4.5%. The unconfined compressive strength was also found to

increase by 104% upon treatment with bio enzyme and cured for 4 weeks.

7.3 FUTURE SCOPE IN INDIA

There is a very good opportunity in India for terrazyme due to its

advantageous results. It is a revolutionary technique and can be easily opted as a

prime method for soil stabilization. Due to its cost effectiveness and higher strength

especially in the case of highways, it is being currently used in India in Maharashtra,

Kerala and Karnataka. But as for different types of soil different dosages are required,

there is a need for research to be done in this field.

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 CHAPTER 8
ADVANTAGES & DISADVANTAGES

8.1 ADVANTAGES

 Eco Friendly- terrazyme is natural and organic material. As it is non-toxic, it

does not cause any harm to humans, animals or vegetation. Terrazyme is also

biodegradable, thus it easily decomposes with the soil. There is no need for

safety precautions to be taken while the application of terrazyme.

 Cost effective- Even though it is expensive product, it is economical due to its

optimum results and permanent application. There is no need to treat the soil

again after terrazyme action, thus making the project highly cost efficient.

Also very little amount of terrazyme is required to achieve required results.

Moreover, as the base and subgrade layers in case of pavement are eliminated,

total cost of the project reduces considerably.

 Easy handling- as mentioned above it is non-toxic in nature and does not

cause any harm to human, thus it can be easily used without the need of gloves

and masks.

 Durability- as the effect of terrazyme is permanent; it stabilizes the soil for

longer period. It is also seen that with time the effect of terrazyme in

increasing the strength of soil escalates. It makes the soil water proof and the

strength of soil does not decrease even after saturation of soil.

 Low maintenance cost- as terrazyme is weather resistant it provides longer

durability of soil and thus reduces the need of frequent maintenance.

31
8.2 DISADVANTAGES

 Availability of terrazyme- Terrazyme is not easily available in India and has

to be ordered from the specified agency. As the transportation of terrazyme

takes time, it can delay the project if not ordered in advance.

 Correct application- As a very small amount of enzyme is needed for

application, it is important to pour the diluted terrazyme evenly throughout the

soil to get best results.

 Type of soil- Since terrazyme reacts only with the clay particles it is necessary

for the soil to have higher clay content to get required results.

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 CHAPTER 9

CONCLUSION

Based on the tests conducted in laboratory the following conclusions have been

drawn:

1. Consistency Limits: The Liquid limit, plastic limit and plasticity index

decreased by 47%, 28% and 54% respectively for the higher terrazyme can

reduce the expansion of the soil.

2. Compaction: The MDD and after treating with optimal 0.08 % enzyme, is

found to be 16.4 KN/m3 and 19 % respectively. With Terrazyme which has

water reduction capacity, a high dry density can be obtained with minor

compaction.

3. Unconfined Compression Test is observed that for expansive soil treated

with optimal 0.08% enzyme the Unconfined increases more than 138% when

compared to virgin soil. This indicates reaction of enzyme with clay results in

cementation effect.

4. Tri-axial Test: A comparison of UU tri-axial test results conducted on various

enzyme dosages of soil showed increase in cohesion and friction angle. The

cohesion value increased 100% when compared to virgin soil and friction

angle is normally about 1o- 4o higher that of virgin soil. Higher the values

higher are the shear strength.

5. California Bearing Ratio Test: The test results indicate that there is a

continuous improvement in the CBR values with increase in enzyme dosages.

After 96 hours of curing increase in CBR value for the expansive soil treated

with optimal 0.08% enzyme is around 208%.

33
 The properties of expansive soil have been improved by stabilizing with

enzyme dosage of 0.008 %.

 Bio-Enzyme stabilization has shown high improvement in physical properties

of expansive soil. This improvement may be due to chemical constituent of the

soil, which has high reactivity with Bio-Enzyme. So it is always advisable to

first examine the effect of Bio-Enzyme on soil in the laboratory before trying

in the field.

34
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