surfactants in soil stabilization - enzymes in soil stabilization

Question from Bill Pierick:

I have been trying to find information regarding the use of surfactants in soil stabilization for road building (stabilization of the road base and for dust control) and in the manufacturing of earth bricks/blocks.
I have come across a lot of conflicting information from many companies claiming to use surfactants in their formulations. However, the amount used and the prices charged, are all over the board. The claims for the use of surfactants when combined with enzymes and compacted, are nothing short of miraculous. The formulation is used to build roads and homes all over the world. Better, stronger, faster and cheaper, the claims read.
My question is; is a surfactant/enzyme formulation, when added to soil and then compacted, likely to produce a viable product?

Answer
Dear Bill Pierick,

thank you for contacting me.

Please be aware that surfactants in the products mentioned are used as aids or multiple aids. They are used to produce stable dispersions (which do not separate easily), ease distribution on soil and dust or enable spraying fine droplets, as wetting agents etc.
In relation to applications in combination with enzymes for building, road construction I found the claim that the enzymes work the same way as natural enzymes of ants and termites.
A detailed description and report on applications can be found at http://www.forester.net/ecm_0207_dust.html.
There you will find, that it only works for soils with a distinct composition, for soils having the required clay content.