Water Stabilization Using Microparticles

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A fundamentally different approach to the problem of soil liquefaction abatement will be studied. The researchers will investigate the use of hydrogel (a polymer) to immobilize porewater. Hydrogel turns porewater into an immobile, soft gel. It does not flow or liquefy or break (like grout) when shaken. The new particles will be installed underneath existing buildings founded on liquefiable soils, reducing the threat of liquefaction. The particles, coated with a time-release coating, will be placed beneath the buildings. When the coatings decay, the hydrogel immobilizes the porewater, effectively eliminating liquefaction potential.This project will create the new particles and evaluate the engineering properties of them ? consolidation and then static and cyclic strength. Nanotechnology will be used to make a coated microparticle that can be installed under existing buildings. The new particles will be made by emulsion polymerization, developed under a prior NSF award at Auburn University. Porewater immobilization can provide an efficient way to stop liquefaction due to earthquakes. The new method is much easier to use, and less risky, than existing methods, for both new and existing buildings and other structures.