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Updated: Aug 29, 2025

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Sandy Soil Improvement through Microbially Induced Calcite Precipitation MICP by Immersion
Published on: September 12, 2019
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Spatial Distribution Characteristics of Microbial Mineralization in Saturated Sand Centrifuge Shaking Table Test
Zhiguang Han1, Jianzhang Xiao2, Yingqi Wei2
1Department of Civil Engineering, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|September 9, 2022
Summary
Microbial induced calcium carbonate effectively improves sand liquefaction resistance. However, spatial heterogeneity in microbial activity leads to varied strength, impacting soil stiffness under dynamic loads.
Area of Science:
- Geotechnical Engineering
- Microbiology
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Microbial induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) offers a green solution for sand liquefaction.
- Heterogeneity in microbial activity and nutrient seepage causes uneven calcium carbonate distribution, affecting soil strength.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of earthquake loading on MICP-treated sand liquefaction resistance.
- To evaluate microbial technology's effectiveness in preventing sand liquefaction under dynamic stress.
Main Methods:
- Simulated dynamic stress conditions using a centrifuge shaking table (R500B) with two-way vibration.
- Analyzed microbial strengthening effects and spatial distribution of calcium carbonate mineralization post-testing.
Main Results:
- Microbial distribution showed significant spatial heterogeneity and edge effects.
- MICP enhanced liquefaction resistance, but depth-dependent cementation changes affected soil stiffness.
- Curing strength complexity and uncertainty were observed, contributing to shear stiffness degradation.
Conclusions:
- Microbial treatment is effective for sand liquefaction, but spatial variability necessitates careful consideration.
- Understanding the complex relationship between microbial mineralization and soil properties is crucial for engineering applications.

