Laboratory analyses of Kaolinite stabilized by vinyl polymers with different monomer types

Abstract The geotechnical behavior of a mixture of kaolinite and vinyl polymers with different monomer types was investigated using a series of laboratory tests. Three polymers were selected for chemical treating including synthesized poly(styrene-co-butyl acrylate) and poly(methyl methacrylate–co-butyl acrylate), and one commercial polyvinyl acetate. All these polymers were chosen to have a similar glass transition temperature (Tg). A series of laboratory tests were conducted on the prepared samples, including Atterberg limits, unconfined compressive strength, direct shear, swelling potential, oedometer, triaxial tests, and scanning electron microscopy observation. The results showed changes in the soil microstructures and considerable improvement in shear strength parameters of clay with all monomer types. Also, the highest strength was obtained in the stabilized samples with polyvinyl acetate among three stabilizers. Conversely, the swelling parameters of the polyvinyl acetate stabilized soil increased compared to the unstabilized soil. Finally, the stabilized samples with poly(methyl methacrylate-co-butyl acrylate) demonstrated better performance in reducing the swelling and increasing the strength properties of soil.