Enhancing the Geotechnical Properties of the Thar Desert Using Pectin as a Sustainable Solution

Abstract

The study explores sand–biopolymer interactions as an eco-friendly method for enhancing the binding between sand grains, providing an innovative approach to strengthening desert sands. The research primarily investigates the effects of using varying percentages of pectin biopolymer (0.5, 1, and 1.5%) combined with two distinct pore volumes (PV), specifically 1 PV and 0.75 PV. By conducting different tests, i.e., unconfined compressive strength (UCS), ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV), and split tensile strength (STS), this study shows the usefulness of pectin biopolymer as a sustainable solution for enhancing the mechanical properties of desert sand. In this study, UCS and STS test samples were prepared using sand and Pectin solutions, by maintaining aspect ratios of 1:2 and 1:1, respectively. To know the integrity of the sample formed the UPV test has been performed before UCS testing. Among all tests performed, the P/1/1.5% sample exhibited the highest strength, with UPV, UCS, and STS values of 1050 m/s, 370 kPa, and 165 kPa, respectively and the P/1/0.5% sample showed the lowest performance, with values of 720 m/s for UPV, 109 kPa for UCS, and 40 kPa for STS. Microstructural analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) has been performed to determine the bonding between sand particles and the biopolymer. The SEM images revealed mechanical interlacing at the microscopic level. This research emphasizes that biopolymer is an environmentally friendly solution for desert sand stabilization. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2026.