Microbial healing of cracks in concrete: a review

Bioconcrete-Enabled Resilient Construction: a Review

Concrete, the ubiquitous cementitious composite though immensely versatile, is crack-susceptible. Cracks let in deleterious substances causing durability issues. Superseding conventional crack-repair methods, the innovative application of microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICCP) stands prominent, being based on the natural phenomenon of carbonate precipitation. It is eco-friendly, self-activated, economical, and simplistic. Bacteria inside concrete get activated by contacting the environment upon the crack opening and filling the cracks with calcium carbonate-their metabolic waste. This work systematizes MICCP's intricacies and reviews state-of-the-art literature on practical technicalities in its materialization and testing. Explored are the latest advances in various aspects of MICCP, such as bacteria species, calcium sources, encapsulations, aggregates, and the techniques of bio-calcification and curing. Furthermore, methodologies for crack formation, crack observation, property analysis of healed test subject, and present techno-economic limitations are examined. The work serves as a succinct, implementation-ready, and latest review for MICCP's application, giving tailorable control over the enormous variations in this bio-mimetic technique.

Biomineralization Process of CaCO3 Precipitation Induced by Bacillus mucilaginous and Its Potential Application in Microbial Self-healing Concrete

Microbial induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) is widely common in nature, which belongs to biomineralization and has been explored carefully in recent decades. The paper studied the effect of temperature, initial pH value and Ca2+ concentration on bacterial growth and carbonic anhydrase activity, and then revealed the biomineralization process through the changes of Ca2+ concentration and calcification rate in alkali environment. Meanwhile, microbial healing agent containing spores and calcium nitrate was prepared and used for the early age concrete cracks repair. The self-healing efficiency was assessed by crack closure rate and water permeability repair rate. The experimental results showed that when the optimal temperature was 30 °C, the pH was 8.0-11.0, and the optimal Ca2+ concentration was 0-90 mM, the bacteria could grow better and the carbonic anhydrase activity was higher. Compared with reference, the crack closure rate with the crack width up to 0.339 mm could reach 95.62% and the water permeability repair rate was 87.54% after 28 d healing time of dry-wet cycles. XRD analysis showed that the precipitates at the crack mouth were calcite CaCO3. Meanwhile, the self-healing mechanism of mortar cracks was discussed in detail. In particular, there is no other pollution in the whole mineralization process, and the self-healing system is environmentally friendly, which provides a novel idea and method for the application of microbial self-healing concrete.

Mechanical and self-healing properties of cement paste containing incinerated sugarcane filter cake and Lysinibacillus sp. WH bacteria

Cement is the most widely used construction material due to its strength and affordability, but its production is energy intensive. Thus, the need to replace cement with widely available waste material such as incinerated black filter cake (IBFC) in order to reduce energy consumption and the associated CO2 emissions. However, because IBFC is a newly discovered cement replacement material, several parameters affecting the mechanical properties of IBFC-cement composite have not been thoroughly investigated yet. Thus, this work aims to investigate the impact of IBFC as a cement replacement and the addition of the calcifying bacterium Lysinibacillus sp. WH on the mechanical and self-healing properties of IBFC cement pastes. The properties of the IBFC-cement pastes were assessed by determining compressive strength, permeable void, water absorption, cement hydration product, and self-healing property. Increases in IBFC replacement reduced the durability of the cement pastes. The addition of the strain WH to IBFC cement pastes, resulting in biocement, increased the strength of the IBFC-cement composite. A 20% IBFC cement-replacement was determined to be the ideal ratio for producing biocement in this study, with a lower void percentage and water absorption value. Adding strain WH decreases pore sizes, densifies the matrix in ≤ 20% IBFC biocement, and enhances the formation of calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) and AFm ettringite phases. Biogenic CaCO3 and C-S-H significantly increase IBFC composite strength, especially at ≤ 20% IBFC replacement. Moreover, IBFC-cement composites with strain WH exhibit self-healing properties, with bacteria precipitating CaCO3 crystals to bridge cracks within two weeks. Overall, this work provides an approach to produce a "green/sustainable" cement using biologically enabled self-healing characteristics.

Genome Sequence Analysis of Calcifying Bacteria Bacillus paranthracis CT5 and Its Biomineralization Efficacy to Improve the Strength and Durability Properties of Civil Structures

Bacteria producing urea amidohydrolases (UA) and carbonic anhydrases (CA) are of great importance in civil engineering as these enzymes are responsible for microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICCP). In this investigation, genomic insights of Bacillus paranthracis CT5 and the expression of genes underlying in MICCP were studied. B. paranthracis produced a maximum level of UA (669.3 U/ml) and CA (125 U/ml) on 5th day of incubation and precipitated 197 mg/100 ml CaCO3 after 7 days of incubation. After 28 days of curing, compressive strength of bacterial admixed and bacterial cured (B-B) specimens was 13.7% higher compared to water-mixed and water-cured (W-W) specimens. A significant decrease in water absorption was observed in bacterial-cured specimens compared to water-cured specimens after 28 days of curing. For genome analysis, reads were assembled de novo producing 5,402,771 bp assembly with N50 of 273,050 bp. RAST annotation detected six amidohydrolase and three carbonic anhydrase genes. Among 5700 coding sequences found in genome, COG gene annotation grouped 4360 genes into COG categories with highest number of genes to transcription (435 genes), amino acid transport and metabolism (362 genes) along with cell wall/membrane/envelope biogenesis and ion transport and metabolism. KEGG functional classification predicted 223 pathways consisting of 1,960 genes and the highest number of genes belongs to two-component system (101 genes) and ABC transporter pathways (98 genes) enabling bacteria to sense and respond to environmental signals and actively transport various minerals and organic molecules, which facilitate the active transport of molecules required for MICCP.

Microbial induced carbonate precipitation for remediation of heavy metals, ions and radioactive elements: A comprehensive exploration of prospective applications in water and soil treatment

Improper disposal practices have caused environmental disruptions, possessing by heavy metal ions and radioactive elements in water and soil, where the innovative and sustainable remediation strategies are significantly imperative in last few decades. Microbially induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) has emerged as a pioneering technology for remediating contaminated soil and water. Generally, MICP employs urease-producing microorganisms to decompose urea (NH2CONH2) into ammonium (NH4+and carbon dioxide (CO2), thereby increasing pH levels and inducing carbonate precipitation (CO32-), and effectively removing remove contaminants. Nonetheless, the intricate mechanism underlying heavy metal mineralization poses a significant challenge, constraining its application in contaminants engineering, particularly in the context of prolonged heavy metal leaching over time and its efficacy in adverse environmental conditions. This review provides a comprehensive idea of recent development of MICP and its application in environmental engineering, examining metabolic pathways, mineral precipitation mechanisms, and environmental factors as well as providing future perspectives for commercial utilization. The use of ureolytic bacteria in MICP demonstrates cost-efficiency, environmental compatibility, and successful pollutant abatement over tradition bioremediation techniques, and bio-synthesis of nanoparticles. limitations such as large-scale application, elevated Ca2+levels in groundwater, and gradual contaminant release need to be overcome. The possible future research directions for MICP technology, emphasizing its potential in conventional remediation, CO2 sequestration, bio-material synthesis, and its role in reducing environmental impact for long-term economic benefits.

Microbially Induced Calcium Carbonate Precipitation as a Bioremediation Technique for Mining Waste

Mining waste represents a global issue due to its potential of generating acidic or alkaline leachate with high concentrations of metals and metalloids (metal(loid)s). Microbial-induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) is an engineering tool used for remediation. MICP, induced via biological activity, aims to precipitate calcium carbonate (CaCO3) or co-precipitate other metal carbonates (MCO3). MICP is a bio-geochemical remediation method that aims to immobilize or remove metal(loid)s via enzyme, redox, or photosynthetic metabolic pathways. Contaminants are removed directly through immobilization as mineral precipitates (CaCO3 or MCO3), or indirectly (via sorption, complexes, or inclusion into the crystal structure). Further, CaCO3 precipitates deposited on the surface or within the pore spaces of a solid matrix create a clogging effect to reduce contaminant leachate. Experimental research on MICP has shown its promise as a bioremediation technique for mining waste. Additional research is required to evaluate the long-term feasibility and potential by-products of MICP-treated/stabilized waste.

Biotechnology to reduce logistics burden and promote environmental stewardship for Air Force civil engineering requirements

This review provides discussion of advances in biotechnology with specific application to civil engineering requirements for airfield and airbase operations. The broad objectives are soil stabilization, waste management, and environmental protection. The biotechnology focal areas address (1) treatment of soil and sand by biomineralization and biopolymer addition, (2) reduction of solid organic waste by anaerobic digestion, (3) application of microbes and higher plants for biological processing of contaminated wastewater, and (4) use of indigenous materials for airbase construction and repair. The consideration of these methods in military operating scenarios, including austere environments, involves comparison with conventional techniques. All four focal areas potentially reduce logistics burden, increase environmental sustainability, and may provide energy source, or energy-neutral practices that benefit military operations.

Insights in MICP dynamics in urease-positive Staphylococcus sp. H6 and Sporosarcina pasteurii bacterium

Microbially induced calcite precipitation (MICP) is an efficient and eco-friendly technique that has attracted significant interest for resolving various problems in the soil (erosion, improving structural integrity and water retention, etc.), remediation of heavy metals, production of self-healing concrete or restoration of different concrete structures. The success of most common MICP methods depends on microorganisms degrading urea which leads to the formation of CaCO3 crystals. While Sporosarcina pasteurii is a well-known microorganism for MICP, other soil abundant microorganisms, such as Staphylococcus bacteria have not been thoroughly studied for its efficiency in bioconsolidation though MICP is a very important proccess which can ensure soil quality and health. This study aimed to analyze MICP process at the surface level in Sporosarcina pasteurii and a newly screened Staphylococcus sp. H6 bacterium as well as show the possibility of this new microorganism to perform MICP. It was observed that Staphylococcus sp. H6 culture precipitated 157.35 ± 3.3 mM of Ca2+ ions from 200 mM, compared to 176 ± 4.8 mM precipitated by S. pasteurii. The bioconsolidation of sand particles was confirmed by Raman spectroscopy and XRD analysis, which indicated the formation of CaCO3 crystals for both Staphylococcus sp. H6 and S. pasteurii cells. The water-flow test suggested a significant reduction in water permeability in bioconsolidated sand samples for both Staphylococcus sp. H6 and S. pasteurii. Notably, this study provides the first evidence that CaCO3 precipitation occurs on the surface of Staphylococcus and S. pasteurii cells within the initial 15-30 min after exposure to the biocementation solution. Furthermore, Atomic force microscopy (AFM) indicated rapid changes in cell roughness, with bacterial cells becoming completely coated with CaCO3 crystals after 90 min incubation with a biocementation solution. To our knowledge, this is the first time where atomic force microscopy was used to visualize the dynamic of MICP on cell surface.

Toward Self-Healing Concrete Infrastructure: Review of Experiments and Simulations across Scales

Cement and concrete are vital materials used to construct durable habitats and infrastructure that withstand natural and human-caused disasters. Still, concrete cracking imposes enormous repair costs on societies, and excessive cement consumption for repairs contributes to climate change. Therefore, the need for more durable cementitious materials, such as those with self-healing capabilities, has become more urgent. In this review, we present the functioning mechanisms of five different strategies for implementing self-healing capability into cement based materials: (1) autogenous self-healing from ordinary portland cement and supplementary cementitious materials and geopolymers in which defects and cracks are repaired through intrinsic carbonation and crystallization; (2) autonomous self-healing by (a) biomineralization wherein bacteria within the cement produce carbonates, silicates, or phosphates to heal damage, (b) polymer-cement composites in which autonomous self-healing occurs both within the polymer and at the polymer-cement interface, and (c) fibers that inhibit crack propagation, thus allowing autogenous healing mechanisms to be more effective. In all cases, we discuss the self-healing agent and synthesize the state of knowledge on the self-healing mechanism(s). In this review article, the state of computational modeling across nano- to macroscales developed based on experimental data is presented for each self-healing approach. We conclude the review by noting that, although autogenous reactions help repair small cracks, the most fruitful opportunities lay within design strategies for additional components that can migrate into cracks and initiate chemistries that retard crack propagation and generate repair of the cement matrix.

A succinct review on the durability of treated recycled concrete aggregates

Building materials constitute a considerable portion of all the materials we use and about half the waste (in solid form) generated worldwide. Construction and demolishment (C&D) aggregates can be an invaluable source of construction material. If we measure the quantity of C&D waste in India, it will exceed the amount of all other types of hard solid wastes put together. Therefore, the use of recycled concrete aggregates (RCA) in new construction is being encouraged worldwide. But due to the inferior compressive, mechanical strengths and poor durability performance, it cannot be qualified for structural usage. Hence, there is a need to treat these aggregates and produce better quality aggregates suitable for good structural grade concrete. The present work focuses on the study and comparison of the effects on durability performance due to different treatment techniques of recycled aggregates. Effective treatment techniques can potentially separate or strengthen the weaker portions of the recycled aggregates like the old adhered mortar and the ITZs formed due to them. Effects of different RCA treatment methods along with their combinations such as immersing aggregate in acid solution and silicate solution impregnation, multistage-mixing techniques, biologically induced carbonate precipitation, modifier solution impregnation, ultrasonic cleaning, crushing aggregates at multiple levels, and mechanical grinding are considered for analyzing their effectiveness in improving RCA durability. The durability performance of treated RCA is evaluated based on the improvement in the parameters such as water absorption and resistance to acid attack, permeability, chloride attack, and carbonation.

Microbial repairing of concrete & its role in CO2 sequestration: a critical review

Background

Being the most widely used construction material, concrete health is considered a very important aspect from the structural point of view. Microcracks in concrete cause water and chlorine ions to enter the structure, causing the concrete to degrade and the reinforcement to corrode, posing an unacceptable level of structural risk. Hence repair of these cracks in an eco-friendly and cost-effective way is in the interest of various researchers. Microbially induced calcite precipitation (MICP) is an effective way considered by various researchers to heal those concrete cracks along with an important environmental contribution of CO2 (carbon dioxide) sequestration in the process.

Main content

As the current concentration of CO2 in the earth’s atmosphere is about 412 ppm, it possesses a deadly threat to the environmental issue of global warming. The use of bacteria for MICP can not only be a viable solution to repairing concrete cracks but also can play an important role of CO2 arrestation in carbonate form. This will help in carbon level management to lessen the adverse effects of this greenhouse gas on the atmospheric environment, particularly on the climate. To overcome the insufficiency of studies concentrating on this aspect, this review article focuses on the metabolic pathways and mechanisms of MICP and highlights the value of MICP for CO2 arrestation/sequestration from the atmosphere during the process of self-healing of concrete cracks, which is also the novelty of this work. An overview of recent studies on the implementation of MICP in concrete crack repair is used to discuss and analyse the factors influencing the effectiveness of MICP in the process, including various approaches used for CO2 sequestration. Furthermore, this investigation concentrates on finding the scope of work in the same field for the most effective ways of CO2 sequestration in the process of self-healing cracks of concrete.

Conclusion

In a prospective study, MICP can be an effective technology for CO2 sequestration in concrete crack repair, as it can reduce adverse environmental impacts and provide greener environment. This critical study concludes that MICP can bear a significant role in arrestation/sequestration of CO2, under proper atmospheric conditions with a cautious selection of microorganisms and its nutrient for the MICP procedure.

Graphical Abstract

Performance Evaluation of Bio Concrete by Cluster and Regression Analysis for Environment Protection

The focus of this research is to isolating and identifying bacteria that produce calcite precipitate, as well as determining whether or not these bacteria are suitable for incorporation into concrete in order to enhance the material’s strength and make the environment protection better. In order to survive the high “potential of hydrogen” of concrete, microbes that are going to be added to concrete need to be able to withstand alkali, and they also need to be able to develop endospores so that they can survive the mechanical forces that are going to be put on the concrete while it is being mixed. In order to precipitate CaCO3 in the form of calcite, they need to have a strong urease activity. Both Bacillus sphaericus and the Streptococcus aureus bacterial strains were evaluated for their ability to precipitate calcium carbonate (CaCO3). These strains were obtained from the Department of Biotechnology at GLA University in Mathura. This research aims to solve the issue of augmenting the tension and compression strengths of concrete by investigating possible solutions for environmentally friendly concrete. The sterile cultures of the microorganisms were mixed with water, which was one of the components of the concrete mixture, along with the nutrients in the appropriate proportions. After that, the blocks were molded, and then pond-cured for 7, 28, 56, 90, 120, 180, 270, and 365 days, respectively, before being evaluated for compressibility and tensile strength. An investigation into the effect that bacteria have on compression strength was carried out, and the outcomes of the tests showed that bacterial concrete specimens exhibited an increase in mechanical strength. When compared to regular concrete, the results showed a maximum increase of 16 percent in compressive strength and a maximum increase of 12 percent in split tensile strength. This study also found that both bacterial concrete containing 106, 107, and 108 cfu/ml concentrations made from Bacillus sphaericus and Streptococcus aureus bacteria gave better results than normal concrete. Both cluster analysis (CA) and regression analysis (RA) were utilized in this research project in order to measure and analyze mechanical strength.

Review on Carbonation Study of Reinforcement Concrete Incorporating with Bacteria as Self-Healing Approach

This study carried out a comprehensive review to determine the carbonation process that causes the most deterioration and destruction of concrete. The carbonation mechanism involved using carbon dioxide (CO₂) to penetrate the concrete pore system into the atmosphere and reduce the alkalinity by decreasing the pH level around the reinforcement and initiation of the corrosion process. The use of bacteria in the concrete was to increase the pH of the concrete by producing urease enzyme. This technique may help to maintain concrete alkalinity in high levels, even when the carbonation process occurs, because the CO₂ accelerates to the concrete and then converts directly to calcium carbonate, CaCO₃. Consequently, the self-healing of the cracks and the pores occurred as a result of the carbonation process and bacteria enzyme reaction. As a result of these reactions, the concrete steel is protected, and the concrete properties and durability may improve. However, there are several factors that control carbonation which have been grouped into internal and external factors. Many studies on carbonation have been carried out to explore the effect of bacteria to improve durability and concrete strength. However, an in-depth literature review revealed that the use of bacteria as a self-healing mechanism can still be improved upon. This review aimed to highlight and discuss the possibility of applying bacteria in concrete to improve reinforcement concrete.

Effects of Various Pseudomonas Bacteria Concentrations on the Strength and Durability Characteristics of Concrete

The goal of this study is to improve concrete’s efficiency by using a microbiologically produced specific growth/filler. One such way of thinking has resulted in the invention of a highly unusual concrete known as microbial concrete, which uses bacteria to cure flaws in the concrete. Investigators working with various microorganisms suggested several microbial concretes. The bacterium “Pseudomonas” was used in this experiment. Pseudomonas bacteria, which can make calcite precipitates on a proper medium supplied with a calcium supply, is a typical science lab bacterium for calcite generation. Two different concentrations (106 cfu/mL and 107 cfu/mL) of bacteria were added to cement concrete and it was observed that the bacterial concrete with two different concentrations gives results as compared with normal concrete. According to the findings of this investigation, the inclusion of bacteria resulted in a considerable increase in compressive strength when the dilution factor was 106 cells per ml of mixed water. With the incorporation of the microorganisms, it was discovered that holes were partly filled up by material growth, as shown by scanning electron micrography inspection of the sample. Concrete cubes without and with the inclusion of bacteria were molded, and it was discovered that the compressive strength of the cubes with the injection of microorganisms increased significantly. In this study, concrete cylinders without and with the inclusion of microorganisms were molded, and it was discovered that the split tensile strength of the cylinders with the injection of microorganisms increased significantly above the control. When compared with regular concrete, the results showed a maximum increase of 16 percent in compressive strength and a maximum increase of 12 percent in split tensile strength. It was discovered via durability testing that bacterial concrete had less weight loss and stronger tensile strength than conventional concrete when treated with 5 percent H2SO4 or 5 percent MgSO4 compared with control concrete.

Bio-strengthening of cementitious composites from incinerated sugarcane filter cake by a calcifying bacterium Lysinibacillus sp. WH

This study investigated Microbially Induced Calcite Precipitation (MICP) technology to improve the mechanical properties of cementitious composites containing incinerated sugarcane filter cake (IFC) using a calcifying bacterium Lysinibacillus sp. WH. Both IFC obtained after the first and second clarification processes, referred to as white (IWFC) and black (IBFC), were experimented. This is the first work to investigate the use of IBFC as a cement replacement. According to the X-ray fluorescence (XRF) results, the main element of IWFC and IBFC was CaO (91.52%) and SiO₂ (58.80%), respectively. This is also the first work to investigate the use of IBFC as a cement replacement. We found that the addition of strain WH could further enhance the strength of both cementitious composites up to ~ 31%, while reduced water absorption and void. Microstructures of the composites were visualized using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The cement hydration products were determined using X-ray diffraction (XRD) followed by Rietveld analysis. The results indicated that biogenic CaCO₃ was the main composition in enhancing strength of the IBFC composite, whereas induce tricalcium silicate (C₃S) formation promoting the strength of IWFC composite. This work provided strong evidence that the mechanical properties of the cementitious composites could be significantly improved through the application of MICP. In fact, the strength of IFC-based cementitious composites after boosting by strain WH is only 10% smaller than that of the conventional Portland cement. While using IFC as a cement substitute is a greener way to produce environmentally friendly materials, it also provides a solution to long-term agro-industrial waste pollution problems.

Enzyme-mediated biocalcification by a novel alkaliphilic Bacillus psychrodurans LC40 and its eco-friendly application as a biosealant for crack healing

Biocalcification is a natural biochemical process, which has been regarded as a promising method for sequestering heavy metals or carbon dioxide in the environment, healing cracks in concrete structures, and stabilizing soil. One of the key factors in this process is calcium carbonate-producing bacteria. The purpose of this study was to maximize the production of calcium carbonate by alkaliphilic Bacillus psychrodurans LC40 isolated from a limestone cave, by manipulating the medium composition for fast and non-detrimental crack healing, and to investigate the mechanism of its production. Strain LC40 could grow well in the strongly alkaline region (pH 9.5-11), indicating its alkaliphilic nature. The optimal medium for calcium carbonate production contained 2% tryptone, 1.5% urea, 0.15% NaHCO₃, and 150 mM calcium formate (pH 6). Using this medium, the yield of calcium carbonate at 72 h was approximately 8.6-fold higher than that obtained through Urea-CaCl₂ medium. In this culture, the urease and carbonic anhydrase activities were observed simultaneously, and the pH of the medium was found to have increased to 9.4, leading to maximum calcium carbonate production. This suggests that this pH value is achieved by the synergistic action of the two enzymes, resulting in a high calcium carbonate yield. The crystals were characterized by FESEM, EDS and XRD, which confirmed the production of rhombohedral and spherical calcium carbonate crystals containing vaterite and calcite. Strain LC40 completely healed a 0.75 mm wide crack in a very short time of 3 days using the optimized medium as a cementation solution. Our findings indicate that B. psychrodurans LC40 could be a promising candidate for the development of eco-friendly biosealant applicable to environmentally stressed concrete structures.

Biomineralization Induced by Cells of Sporosarcina pasteurii: Mechanisms, Applications and Challenges

Biomineralization has emerged as a novel and eco-friendly technology for artificial mineral formation utilizing the metabolism of organisms. Due to its highly efficient urea degradation ability, Sporosarcina pasteurii(S. pasteurii) is arguably the most widely investigated organism in ureolytic biomineralization studies, with wide potential application in construction and environmental protection. In emerging, large-scale commercial engineering applications, attention was also paid to practical challenges and issues. In this review, we summarize the features of S. pasteurii cells contributing to the biomineralization reaction, aiming to reveal the mechanism of artificial mineral formation catalyzed by bacterial cells. Progress in the application of this technology in construction and environmental protection is discussed separately. Furthermore, the urgent challenges and issues in large-scale application are also discussed, along with potential solutions. We aim to offer new ideas to researchers working on the mechanisms, applications and challenges of biomineralization.

Kinetic model of a newly-isolated Lysinibacillus sp. strain YL and elastic properties of its biogenic CaCO3 towards biocement application

BACKGROUND

Biocement, calcifying bacteria-incorporated cement, offers an environmentally-friendly way to increase the cement lifespan. This work aimed to investigate the potential use of Lysinibacillus sp. strain YL towards biocement application in both theoretical and experimental ways.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Strain YL was grown using calcium acetate (Ca(C₂ H₃ O₂ )₂ ), calcium chloride (CaCl₂ ) and calcium nitrate (Ca(NO₃ )₂ ). Maximum bacterial growth of ~0.09 hr-1 and the highest amount of CaCO₃ precipitation of ~8.0 g/L were obtained when using Ca(C₂ H₃ O₂ )₂ . The SEM and XRD results confirmed that biogenic CaCO₃ were calcites. The bulk, Young's and shear moduli of biogenic CaCO₃ calculated via the VRH approximation were ~1.5-2.3 times larger than those of ordinary Portland cement. The Poisson's ratio was 0.382 and negative in some directions, suggesting its ductility and auxetic behaviors. The new model was developed to explain the growth kinetic of strain YL in the presence of Ca(C₂ H₃ O₂ )₂ , whose concentration was optimized for biocement experiments. Strain YL could increase the compressive strength of cement up to ~50% higher than that of the uninoculated cement.

CONCLUSION

Strain YL is a promising candidate for biocement applications. This work represents the trials of experiments and models allowing quantitatively comparison with large-scale production in the future.

Microorganism, Carriers, and Immobilization Methods of the Microbial Self-Healing Cement-Based Composites: A Review

Low tensile strength, poor elastic modulus, and complex concrete cracking work condition are almost unavoidable due to the intrinsic brittleness. To deal with concrete maintenance and durability, microbial self-healing concretes have been rapidly developed and widely applied recently. The microbial self-healing can specifically patch fractures as well as boost the concrete structure's capacity, durability, and permeability. This paper presents the state-of-the-art in the microbe induced self-healing in cement-based composites. The microorganism and carriers were classified according to the working theory and repair effects. Additionally, the precise efficiency and effect of various technologies are also evaluated for microbial immobilization. Based on the literature review and summary from the perspective of microorganism, carriers, and immobilization methods, challenges and further works are discussed.

Visualizing, quantifying, and controlling local hydrodynamic effects on biofilm accumulation in complex flow paths

Complex flow paths (CFPs) are commonly applied in precision equipment to accurately supply controllable fluids with designed structures. However, the presence of biofilms in CFPs causes quite a few unwanted issues, such as bio-erosion, clogging, or even health risks. To date, visualizing and quantifying the interaction between biofilm distribution and local hydrodynamics remains difficult, and the mechanism during the process is unclear. In this paper, the remodeling simulation method (3D industrial computed tomography scanning-inverse modeling-numerical simulation) and 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing were integrated. The results indicated that local hydrodynamic characteristics significantly affected biofilm thicknesses on CFP surfaces (relative differences of 41.3-71.2%), which inversely influenced the local turbulence intensity. The average biofilm thicknesses exhibited a significant quadratic correlation with the near-wall hydraulic shear forces (r > 0.72, p < 0.05), and the biofilm reached a maximum thickness at 0.36-0.45 Pa. On the other hand, the near-wall hydraulic shear forces not only affected microbial community characteristics of biofilms, but they also influenced the number of microorganisms involved, which determined the biofilm accumulation thereafter. The PHYLUM Firmicutes and Proteobacteria were the dominant bacteria during the process. The results obtained in this paper could provide practical conceptions for the targeted control of biofilms and put forward more efficient controlling methods in commonly applied CFP systems.

Characterization of a Novel CaCO3-Forming Alkali-Tolerant Rhodococcus erythreus S26 as a Filling Agent for Repairing Concrete Cracks

Biomineralization, a well-known natural phenomenon associated with various microbial species, is being studied to protect and strengthen building materials such as concrete. We characterized Rhodococcus erythreus S26, a novel urease-producing bacterium exhibiting CaCO₃-forming activity, and investigated its ability in repairing concrete cracks for the development of environment-friendly sealants. Strain S26 grown in solid medium formed spherical and polygonal CaCO₃ crystals. The S26 cells grown in a urea-containing liquid medium caused culture fluid alkalinization and increased CaCO₃ levels, indicating that ureolysis was responsible for CaCO₃ formation. Urease activity and CaCO₃ formation increased with incubation time, reaching a maximum of 2054 U/min/mL and 3.83 g/L, respectively, at day four. The maximum CaCO₃ formation was achieved when calcium lactate was used as the calcium source, followed by calcium gluconate. Although cell growth was observed after the induction period at pH 10.5, strain S26 could grow at a wide range of pH 4–10.5, showing its high alkali tolerance. FESEM showed rhombohedral crystals of 20–60 µm in size. EDX analysis indicated the presence of calcium, carbon, and oxygen in the crystals. XRD confirmed these crystals as CaCO₃ containing calcite and vaterite. Furthermore, R. erythreus S26 successfully repaired the artificially induced large cracks of 0.4–0.6 mm width.

Comparison of Microbially Induced Healing Solutions for Crack Repairs of Cement-Based Infrastructure

Reinforced concrete crack repair and maintenance costs are around 84% to 125% higher than construction costs, which emphasises the need to increase the infrastructure service life. Prolongation of the designed service life of concrete structures can have significant economic and ecological benefits by minimising the maintenance actions and related increase of carbon and energy expenditure, making it more sustainable. Different mechanisms such as diffusion, permeation and capillary action are responsible for the transport of fluids inside the concrete, which can impact on the structure service life. This paper presents data on microbially induced repair and self-healing solutions for cementitious materials available in the contemporary literature and compares results of compressive strength test and capillary water absorption test, which are relevant to their sealing and mechanical characteristics. The results of the repair and self-healing solutions (relative to unassisted recovery processes) were “normalized.” Externally applied bacteria-based solutions can improve the compressive strength of cementitious materials from 13% to 27%. The internal solution based solely on bacterial suspension had 19% improvement efficacy. Results also show that “hybrid” solutions, based on both bio-based and non-bio-based components, whether externally or internally applied, have the potential for best repair results, synergistically combining their benefits.

Calcifying Bacteria Flexibility in Induction of CaCO3 Mineralization

Microbially induced CaCO₃ precipitation (MICP) is considered as an alternative green technology for cement self-healing and a basis for the development of new biomaterials. However, some issues about the role of bacteria in the induction of biogenic CaCO₃ crystal nucleation, growth and aggregation are still debatable. Our aims were to screen for ureolytic calcifying microorganisms and analyze their MICP abilities during their growth in urea-supplemented and urea-deficient media. Nine candidates showed a high level of urease specific activity, and a sharp increase in the urea-containing medium pH resulted in efficient CaCO₃ biomineralization. In the urea-deficient medium, all ureolytic bacteria also induced CaCO₃ precipitation although at lower pH values. Five strains (B. licheniformis DSMZ 8782, B. cereus 4b, S. epidermidis 4a, M. luteus BS52, M. luteus 6) were found to completely repair micro-cracks in the cement samples. Detailed studies of the most promising strain B. licheniformis DSMZ 8782 revealed a slower rate of the polymorph transformation in the urea-deficient medium than in urea-containing one. We suppose that a ureolytic microorganism retains its ability to induce CaCO₃ biomineralization regardless the origin of carbonate ions in a cell environment by switching between mechanisms of urea-degradation and metabolism of calcium organic salts.

Effect and Mechanism of Encapsulation-Based Spores on Self-Healing Concrete at Different Curing Ages

It has become an intelligent and environmental protection method to repair concrete cracks based on microbial-induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP). However, due to the high-alkali environment in concrete, even the microbial spores with strong alkali resistance find it difficult to survive for a long time, which affects the long-term self-healing effect of concrete cracks. In this paper, low-alkali sulfo-aluminate cement (SC) was used as a carrier to encapsulate spores, and the effects of the spore group and microbial group on the basic performances of concrete were studied. Then, the area repair ratio, water permeability, the repair ratio of anti-chloride ion penetration, and ultrasonic velocity were used to evaluate the self-healing efficiency of cracks, and the self-healing effects of two kinds of microbial self-healing agents on concrete cracks with different curing ages were further studied. Moreover, the growth, enzyme activity, and microbial morphologies of spores with and without encapsulation immersed in the simulated pore solution of cement-based materials at different times were studied to discuss the protective effect of the carrier on spores. Compared with the reference group, the results showed that the addition of two microbial self-healing agents would slightly affect the basic performances of concrete, but both were within the control range of concrete materials. For the early-age cracks, the two kinds of microbial self-healing agents could achieve a good self-healing effect, but for the later-age cracks, the concrete cracks of the microbial group could still be repaired well, while the self-healing effect of the spore group was greatly reduced. Moreover, the white precipitates generated at the crack mouth were all calcite CaCO₃. In addition, the self-healing mechanism of different microbial self-healing agents on concrete cracks was discussed carefully. This study provides a new idea and method for the engineering application of microbial self-healing concrete.

Investigating mechanical properties and biocement application of CaCO3 precipitated by a newly-isolated Lysinibacillus sp. WH using artificial neural networks

A newly-isolated Lysinibacillus sp. strain WH could precipitate CaCO₃ using calcium acetate (Ca(C₂H₃O₂)₂), calcium chloride (CaCl₂) and calcium nitrate (Ca(NO₃)₂) via non-ureolytic processes. We developed an algorithm to determine CaCO₃ crystal structures by fitting the simulated XRD spectra to the experimental data using the artificial neural networks (ANNs). The biogenic CaCO₃ crystals when using CaCl₂ and Ca(NO₃)₂ are trigonal calcites with space group R3c, while those when using Ca(C₂H₃O₂)₂ are hexagonal vaterites with space group P6₅22. Their elastic properties are derived from the Voigt–Reuss–Hill (VRH) approximation. The bulk, Young's, and shear moduli of biogenic calcite are 77.812, 88.197, and 33.645 GPa, respectively, while those of vaterite are 67.082, 68.644, 25.818 GPa, respectively. Their Poisson’s ratios are ~ 0.3–0.33, suggesting the ductility behavior of our crystals. These elastic values are comparable to those found in limestone cement, but are significantly larger than those of Portland cement. Based on the biocement experiment, the maximum increase in the compressive strength of Portland cement (27.4%) was found when Ca(NO₃)₂ was used. An increased strength of 26.1% was also found when Ca(C₂H₃O₂)₂ was used, implying the transformation of less-durable vaterite to higher-durable calcite. CaCO₃ produced by strain WH has a potential to strengthen Portland cement-based materials.

Biological Self-Healing of Cement Paste and Mortar by Non-Ureolytic Bacteria Encapsulated in Alginate Hydrogel Capsules

Crack formation in concrete is one of the main reasons for concrete degradation. Calcium alginate capsules containing biological self-healing agents for cementitious materials were studied for the self-healing of cement paste and mortars through in vitro characterizations such as healing agent survivability and retention, material stability, and biomineralization, followed by in situ self-healing observation in pre-cracked cement paste and mortar specimens. Our results showed that bacterial spores fully survived the encapsulation process and would not leach out during cement mixing. Encapsulated bacteria precipitated CaCO₃ when exposed to water, oxygen, and calcium under alkaline conditions by releasing CO₃²⁻ ions into the cement environment. Capsule rupture is not required for the initiation of the healing process, but exposure to the right conditions are. After 56 days of wet–dry cycles, the capsules resulted in flexural strength regain as high as 39.6% for the cement mortar and 32.5% for the cement paste specimens. Full crack closure was observed at 28 days for cement mortars with the healing agents. The self-healing system acted as a biological CO₃²⁻ pump that can keep the bio-agents retained, protected, and active for up to 56 days of wet-dry incubation. This promising self-healing strategy requires further research and optimization.

Microfluidic study of effects of flow velocity and nutrient concentration on biofilm accumulation and adhesive strength in the flowing and no-flowing microchannels

Biofilm accumulation in porous media can cause pore plugging and change many of the physical properties of porous media. Engineering bioplugging may have significant applications for many industrial processes, while improved knowledge on biofilm accumulation in porous media at porescale in general has broad relevance for a range of industries as well as environmental and water research. The experimental results by means of microscopic imaging over a T-shape microchannel clearly show that increase in fluid velocity could facilitate biofilm growth, but that above a velocity threshold, biofilm detachment and inhibition of biofilm formation due to high shear stress were observed. High nutrient concentration prompts the biofilm growth; however, the generated biofilm displays a weak adhesive strength. This paper provides an overview of biofilm development in a hydrodynamic environment for better prediction and modelling of bioplugging processes associated with porous systems in petroleum industry, hydrogeology and water purification.

Microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation: a widespread phenomenon in the biological world

Biodeposition of minerals is a widespread phenomenon in the biological world and is mediated by bacteria, fungi, protists, and plants. Calcium carbonate is one of those minerals that naturally precipitate as a by-product of microbial metabolic activities. Over recent years, microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) has been proposed as a potent solution to address many environmental and engineering issues. However, for being a viable alternative to conventional techniques as well as being financially and industrially competitive, various challenges need to be overcome. In this review, the detailed metabolic pathways, including ammonification of amino acids, dissimilatory reduction of nitrate, and urea degradation (ureolysis), along with the potent bacteria and the favorable conditions for precipitation of calcium carbonate, are explained. Moreover, this review highlights the potential environmental and engineering applications of MICP, including restoration of stones and concrete, improvement of soil properties, sand consolidation, bioremediation of contaminants, and carbon dioxide sequestration. The key research and development questions necessary for near future large-scale applications of this innovative technology are also discussed.

Corn steep liquor as a nutritional source for biocementation and its impact on concrete structural properties

Microbial-induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) has a potential to improve the durability properties and remediate cracks in concrete. In the present study, the main emphasis is placed upon replacing the expensive laboratory nutrient broth (NB) with corn steep liquor (CSL), an industrial by-product, as an alternate nutrient medium during biocementation. The influence of organic nutrients (carbon and nitrogen content) of CSL and NB on the chemical and structural properties of concrete structures is studied. It has been observed that cement-setting properties were unaffected by CSL organic content, while NB medium influenced it. Carbon and nitrogen content in concrete structures was significantly lower in CSL-treated specimens than in NB-treated specimens. Decreased permeability and increased compressive strength were reported when NB is replaced with CSL in bacteria-treated specimens. The present study results suggest that CSL can be used as a replacement growth medium for MICP technology at commercial scale.

Recent Advances in Intrinsic Self-Healing Cementitious Materials

Self-healing is a natural phenomenon whereby living organisms respond to damage. Recently, considerable research efforts have been invested in self-healing cementitious materials that are capable of restoring structural integrity and mechanical properties after being damaged. Inspired by nature, a variety of creative approaches are explored here based on the intrinsic or extrinsic healing mechanism. Research on new intrinsic self-healing cementitious materials with biomimetic features is on the forefront of material science, which provides a promising way to construct resilient and sustainable concrete infrastructures. Here, the current advances in the development of the intrinsic healing cementitious materials are described, and a new definition of intrinsic self-healing discussed. The methods to assess the efficiency of different healing mechanisms are briefly summarized. The critical insights are emphasized to guide the future research on the development of new self-healing cementitious materials.

Urease-aided calcium carbonate mineralization for engineering applications: A review

Inducing calcium carbonate precipitation is another important function of urease in nature. The process takes advantage of the supply of carbonate ions derived from urea hydrolysis and of an increase in pH generated by the reaction, effects that in the presence of Ca²⁺ ions lead to the precipitation of CaCO₃. Further to its importance in nature, if performed in a biomimetic manner, the urease-aided CaCO₃ mineralization offers enormous potential in innovative engineering applications as an eco-friendly technique operative under mild conditions, to be used for remediation and cementation/deposition in field applications in situ. These include among others, the strengthening and consolidation of soil/sand, the protection and restoration of stone and concrete structures, conservation of stone cultural heritage materials, cleaning waste- and groundwater of toxic metals and radionuclides, and plugging geological formations for the enhancement of oil recovery and geologic CO₂ sequestration. In view of the potential of this newly emerging interdisciplinary branch of engineering, this article presents the principles of urease-aided calcium carbonate mineralization apposed to other biomineralization processes, and reviews the advantages and limitations of the technique compared to the conventional techniques presently in use. Further, it presents areas of its existing and potential applications, notably in geotechnical, construction and environmental engineering, and its future perspectives.