Abstract
This paper presents the results of comprehensive studies of a biopolymer gravel composite developed on the basis of polylactic acid (PLA) and natural gravel for use in block filters of hydrogeological wells. The main focus is on studying the mechanical and hydraulic properties of the material that ensure its operational reliability and environmental safety. The influence of PLA content on compressive strength, resistance to the influence of the aquatic environment, porosity, permeability, and filtration coefficient was analyzed. Experimental composite samples were made by hot pressing with different polymer mass fractions and gravel fractions. It was found that increasing the PLA content to 16% significantly increases the strength of the material, but is accompanied by a decrease in porosity and permeability.With a low polymer content (4–12%), the composite demonstrates an optimal balance of mechanical strength and filtration capacity. Studies have shown that biopolymer gravel composite retains structural stability and resistance to water saturation. At the same time, during prolonged exposure to an aqueous environment, a gradual change in filtration characteristics is observed, caused by the destruction of PLA.The findings confirm the feasibility of using PLA–gravel composites as environmentally safe and technologically effective materials for well filtration systems designed for groundwater purification and exploitation. The developed approaches form a scientific basis for further optimization of the composite composition and the production technology of new-generation block biopolymer filters that combine mechanical strength, hydraulic stability, and biodegradability.