Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 10, 2026

Analysis of Minerals Produced by hFOB 1.19 and Saos-2 Cells Using Transmission Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Microanalysis
Published on: June 24, 2018
Engineered applications of ureolytic biomineralization: a review
Adrienne J Phillips1, Robin Gerlach, Ellen Lauchnor
1Center for Biofilm Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, USA. adrienne.phillips@biofilm.montana.edu
Abstract:
Microbially-induced calcium carbonate (CaCO3) precipitation (MICP) is a widely explored and promising technology for use in various engineering applications. In this review, CaCO3 precipitation induced via urea hydrolysis (ureolysis) is examined for improving construction materials, cementing porous media, hydraulic control, and remediating environmental concerns. The control of MICP is explored through the manipulation of three factors: (1) the ureolytic activity (of microorganisms), (2) the reaction and transport rates of substrates, and (3) the saturation conditions of carbonate minerals. Many combinations of these factors have been researched to spatially and temporally control precipitation. This review discusses how optimization of MICP is attempted for different engineering applications in an effort to highlight the key research and development questions necessary to move MICP technologies toward commercial scale applications.
Related Concept Videos
Microbial Bioremediation of Uranium
Urinary Tract Calculi III: Medical Management
Microbial Leaching
Urinary Tract Calculi VI: Surgical Management
Microbial Corrosion
Biofilms

