Stabilization of Pond Ash using Biopolymer

The present study pertains to stabilization of pond ash concerning stability factors viz. wind erosion, dust control and other harmful effects of pond ash near ash pond and mining areas using two biopolymers xanthan gum and guar gum. Compaction tests were done to obtain the optimum moisture content and maximum dry density and also unconfined compressive tests were conducted on samples of pond ash without and with various percentage of xanthan gum (1%,2%,3%) and guar gum(0.5%,1%,2%). It was observed that pond ash mixed with various percentage of xanthan gum and guar gum have more strength than ordinary bottom ash samples. Results also indicated that the gum do not react with pond ash reflecting it to be sustainable and effective to use. Guar gum is found to be more effective and viscous than xanthan gum hence, with higher confined compressive strength.