Bacteria-based concrete

Abstract

Several strains of bacteria can induce the precipitation of calcium carbonate, if the appropriate conditions, sufficient nutrients and a calcium source are provided. The metabolic pathway that is followed by the bacterial strain will dictate the type of nutrients to be selected. This precipitation ability has been investigated during recent decades to improve the mechanical properties and durability of construction materials. Starting with applications for the consolidation of natural stones in weathered cultural heritage buildings and the consolidation of sandy soils, the research efforts have moved towards applications in concrete. When bacteria are mixed into fresh concrete, viable cell numbers rapidly decrease with time. Still, positive effects on concrete strength have been reported. To improve the survival rate of bacteria in concrete, various encapsulation and immobilization strategies have been explored and bacterial spores have been used instead of vegetative cells. Furthermore, added nutrients may impair concrete properties and may also be encapsulated for this reason. Encapsulated bacterial spores have shown the ability to self-heal cracks in concrete and first in-situ applications have been launched.