Effect of Microcellulose Modified Styrene-Butadiene Emulsion on Mechanical and Hydraulic Properties of Cement-Stabilized Soil

This study investigates the effects of microcellulose (MCC) and styrene-butadiene (SB) emulsion on the properties of cement-stabilized soil. The addition of MCC to cement-stabilized soil resulted in a reduction in hydraulic conductivity due to its water absorption properties, although it did not significantly improve mechanical properties. In contrast, SB emulsion modified cement-stabilized soil exhibited increased toughness and ductility, transitioning from brittle to ductile behavior. Interestingly, the combination of SB emulsion and MCC yielded a gradual decrease in hydraulic conductivity with increasing SB emulsion content. This was attributed to SB emulsion coating the surface of MCC particles, reducing their water absorption capacity and altering their influence on water flow through the soil-cement matrix. Overall, while MCC alone had limited impact on mechanical properties, SB emulsion showed promise for enhancing toughness and ductility. These findings underscore the importance of understanding additive interactions and their effects on the properties of cement-stabilized soil. Further research is needed to optimize additive compositions for specific engineering applications.