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Updated: Aug 23, 2025
06:27
Sandy Soil Improvement through Microbially Induced Calcite Precipitation MICP by Immersion
Published on: September 12, 2019
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Highlighting Bacteria with Calcifying Abilities Suitable to Improve Mortar Properties
Iuliana Răut1, Mariana Constantin1,2, Ionela Petre3
1National Institute for Research & Development in Chemistry and Petrochemistry-ICECHIM, 202 Independentei Splai, 060021 Bucharest, Romania.
Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
|October 27, 2022
Summary
Biomineralization using microorganisms offers a green approach to enhance construction materials. Bacillus subtilis significantly improved mortar strength and reduced water absorption, showcasing its potential in sustainable building.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Materials Science
- Civil Engineering
Background:
- Biomineralization, the microbial production of calcium carbonate, presents a sustainable alternative for improving construction materials.
- Traditional construction materials face challenges in strength and durability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of bacterial biomineralization in enhancing the properties of construction materials.
- To evaluate the performance of specific bacterial strains, particularly Bacillus subtilis, as agents for calcium carbonate precipitation.
Main Methods:
- Bacteria were cultured in a medium containing urea and calcium ions to induce calcification.
- Precipitates were characterized using X-ray diffraction, FTIR, and TGA.
- Mortar properties, including compressive strength and water absorption, were measured after incorporating bacterial suspensions.
Main Results:
- Bacillus subtilis demonstrated superior performance, leading to increased compressive strength and decreased water absorption in mortars.
- Compressive strength increased by up to 11.81% and water absorption decreased by up to 11.79% after 56 days.
- Microscopy confirmed the formation of carbonate crystals, validating the biomineralization process.
Conclusions:
- Bacillus subtilis is an effective biomineralizing agent for improving mortar performance.
- Microbial-induced calcium carbonate precipitation offers a promising green solution for sustainable construction materials.
- Further exploitation of Bacillus subtilis can lead to more durable and eco-friendly building products.
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