Scientists from Russia’s South Ural State University and China’s Zhejiang University have developed a new material for strengthening calcareous sand, a type of soil commonly found on islands and reefs.
The technology combines calcium carbonate produced through an enzymatic process with coconut fibre. Researchers say the material can be up to five times stronger under dynamic loads, such as wave impact or aircraft landings.
The team says coconut fibre helps reinforce the material and prevent it from breaking apart under impact. Tests found that a mixture containing equal proportions of fine and coarse sand and 0.4 per cent coconut fibre produced the best results.
According to the researchers, the technology could be used for ground beneath runways, jetties, breakwaters and other coastal structures. They say it is environmentally friendly, uses local materials and does not require the high-temperature firing associated with cement production.
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