METHOD OF OBTAINING HYDROGELS,IN PARTICULAR FOR INCREASING STRENGTH AND IMPERMEABILITY OF SOIL AND CIVIL ENGINEERING STRUCTURES

摘要

Method for improving the strength and impermeability of soils and engineering structures by forming a hydrogel composed of silicic acid and a cross-linked swellable organic polymer in or on the soil or structure treated. According to the invention an aqueous solution of a silicic acid gel precursor is contacted with a water-soluble gel-forming vinyl monomer in the presence of a redox polymerization catalyst system; a cross-linking agent for the polymer obtained; an organic polycarboxylic acid; optionally an additive which modifies the structure of the gel formed and optionally a filling agent. By the method of the invention a homogeneous, stable, strong and elastic gel is obtained.