Innovative Binders for the Chemo-Mechanical Treatment of Dredged Sediments

Abstract The article reports results from an experimental study on the chemo-mechanical treatment of dredged marine sediments making use of sustainable and original solutions. Specifically, the research entails the use of seashells and biochar as additives for the chemo-mechanical improvement of dredged fine-grained sediments that were artificially polluted by kerosene. The study includes unconfined compression tests, chemical analyses, and SEM photographs of various sediment-based mixtures. Evidence is provided that seashells represent a viable alternative to cement, as they were found to be as effective as cement when partially replacing it. When the sediment is polluted, the overall strength of the mixture reduces but shell powder is still a viable solution, both for its mechanical and chemical efficacy. The addition of biochar is more effective when just cement is used for treatments.