Cascade System for Biomineralization in Cement: Project, Construction and Operationalization to Enhance Building Energy Efficiency

Abstract

Anthropogenic and natural actions cause internal and external fractures in concrete. To recover these structures, bio-concretes have been developed with bacteria of the genus Bacillus. These microorganisms consume calcium lactate, synthesize calcium carbonate and biomineralize CaCO3 crystals within the structures of concrete. The aim of the present study was to construct equipment, denominated “Cascade System for Biomineralization in Cement” (CSBC), to determine the limiting velocity of the biomineralization of CaCO3. The construction of the equipment took into consideration chemical and biochemical phenomena responsible for biomineralization. Parts made with 3D printing and a circuit with Arduino UNO R3 board were used in the assembly of the system. The prototype proved to be stable and can be considered a promising tool for future application in research of the regeneration of reinforced concreted in a practical, fast and economical way, especially to the energy sector.

Simulation Study of Hydrodynamic Conditions in Reaction Cell for Cement Biomineralization Using Factorial Design and Computational Fluid Dynamics: Prospects for Increased Useful Life of Concrete Structures and Energetic/Environmental Benefits

“…The present study was conducted to assist, guide, and maximize the results of the cascade system for biomineralization in cement developed by Brasileiro et al [23] and displayed in Figure 1.…”

“…The present study was conducted to assist, guide, and maximize the results of the cascade system for biomineralization in cement developed by Brasileiro et al [23] and displayed in Figure 1. The construction of the system began with the filtering of data from the solubility curve in the typical temperature range of the biomineralization process (5-35 °C).…”

“…The aim of the curve is to predict the maximum saturation threshold at each temperature to work under conditions from the non-crystallization of water (above the freezing point) to the optimal temperature (35 • C) for bacteria of the genus Bacillus. The volumetric air flow rate of the system ranged from 0.5 to 4.0 L•min −1 [23].…”

Self-Healing Concrete: Concepts, Energy Saving and Sustainability

“…Although the air is a good thermal insulator (low heat conductor), under uncontrolled conditions, it can create hotspots in factories, making temperature conditions unhealthy for employees and reducing the energy efficiency of the structure. On the other hand, in bridges, these temperature differences can cause thermal dilation in the structure, which makes their periodic maintenance necessary [2]. Studies have been conducted to develop self-healing processes that can be employed to seal cracks in concrete in an eco-sustainable and energy-efficient way.…”