Stabilizer Binder additive for Decomposed Granite
Soil stabilization is the permanent physical and chemical alteration of soils to enhance their physical properties. Stabilization can increase the shear strength of a soil. Stabilizer Binder is a non-staining organic soil stabilizer that binds and locks the crushed stones and fines to provide a durable, natural aggregate surface which resists the erosive effects of weather and traffic. The product is water activated by thoroughly soaking the material in place and then compacting. Once dry, this surface will reabsorb a limited amount of water and remain porous,and retain it’s firmness.
Integration – Blends into pore space of soil aggregate
Absorption – Absorbs 12 X its weight in water
Cohesion – Forms a cohesive gel that binds soil particles, keeping stability between soil particles during periods of excessive moisture
Balance – Maintains damp soil consistency longer when wet, and slowly releases moisture back into the soil in dry conditions
Stability – All of this equals a more stable and accessible footing for traffic
40 LB bag of Stabilizer Binder will make approximately 2.5 TONS of Stabilized DG soil.
PREPARATION
1. Base layer shall be 3″ compacted layer of Aggregate Base material. Make any sub-grade corrections to bring Aggregate Base to the elevations shown in illustration (about 3″ below finished grade).
2. Pre-soak Aggregate Base material with water and compact to 95%.
3. It is recommended to have proper drainage available to ensure no standing water on surface area.
BLENDING
1. Stabilizer Binder shall be thoroughly pre-mixed with Decomposed Granite soils (crushed stones and fines) at a rate of 15 LBS of Stabilizer to 1 TON of DG soil. (about 1/2 LB to 65 LBS) A mechanical concrete mixer is ideal to adequately blend the material. Always blend the Stabilizer Binder and DG soil DRY.
PLACEMENT
1. After pre-blending, place Stabilized pathway mix directly on prepared Aggregate Base grade. Level to desired grade and slope. Depth of pathways recommended is 3″ for heavy foot traffic and light vehicles.
WATERING
1. Water sufficiently for the full depth of the Stabilizer mix. This is what activates the Stabilizer. Randomly test for full moisture depth with a probe.
2. Allow moisture to saturate minimum 6 – 24 hours or until the surface is able to accept compaction without separation or any physical compromise of the Stabilized mix.
3. If surface dries significantly quicker than sub surface materiel, lightly mist before compaction.
COMPACTION
1. Compact the Stabilized mix to 85% relative compaction with: A 2-5 TON double drum roller and 3-4 passes. Small and tight ares use a 8″ hand pump. Vibratory plate compactors separates aggregate particles and is not suggested to be use. If pancaking occurs, surface is still too wet. Stabilized mix that is more than 3″ thick shall be installed in lifts or layers. For example, 4″ thickness, compact 2 – 2″ lifts to achieve finish grade.
2. Lightly spray surface area following compaction, being careful not to disturb surface with spray action.
INSPECTION
1. Finished surface shall be smooth, uniform and solid with no evidence of chipping or cracking. Cured and compacted pathway shall be firm throughout with no spongy areas. Loose material shall not be present on surface after installation, but may appear after use depending on environmental conditions. Pathway shall remain stable underneath loose granite on top with a “natural look”. Any significant irregularities on surface can easily be repaired to the uniformity of the entire installation with previous steps.
2. Secure the new surface to prevent access for a minimum of 12 – 72 hours after completion of installation. Drying time can vary due to weather conditions.
3. Restrict landscape irrigation around Stabilized surface until drying period is complete. Standing water on or adjacent to path surface is restricted at all times.
MAINTENANCE and REPAIRS
1. Repairs to the surface can be made. Over a period of time, minor amounts of loose aggregate may appear on the surface. If material exceeds 1/4″ redistribute over the entire surface. Water to depth of 1″ and compact with a power roller no less than 1000 LBS. To replace a damaged area, excavate the area to the base layer and square off the sidewalls. Moisten damaged portion lightly. Pre-blend the required amount of Stabilized Mix dry, then add water to thoroughly moisten the mix to 10%. Apply moistened mix to excavated area to finish grade. Compact with hand tamper. Keep off traffic 12 to 48 hours to allow time to dry.
