Microbial‑induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) technology: a review on the fundamentals and engineering applications

Abstract

The microbial‑induced carbonate precipitation (MICP), as an emerging biomineralization technology mediated by specific bacteria, has been a popular research focus for scientists and engineers through the previous two decades as an interdisciplinary approach. It provides cutting-edge solutions for various engineering problems emerging in the context of frequent and intense human activities. This paper is aimed at reviewing the fundaments and engineering applications of the MICP technology through existing studies, covering realistic need in geotechnical engineering, construction materials, hydraulic engineering, geological engineering, and environmental engineering. It adds a new perspective on the feasibility and difficulty for field practice. Analysis and discussion within different parts are generally carried out based on specific considerations in each field. MICP may bring comprehensive improvement of static and dynamic characteristics of geomaterials, thus enhancing their bearing capacity and resisting liquefication. It helps produce eco-friendly and durable building materials. MICP is a promising and cost-efficient technology in preserving water resources and subsurface fluid leakage. Piping, internal erosion and surface erosion could also be addressed by this technology. MICP has been proved suitable for stabilizing soils and shows promise in dealing with problematic soils like bentonite and expansive soils. It is also envisaged that this technology may be used to mitigate against impacts of geological hazards such as liquefaction associated with earthquakes. Moreover, global environment issues including fugitive dust, contaminated soil and climate change problems are assumed to be palliated or even removed via the positive effects of this technology. Bioaugmentation, biostimulation, and enzymatic approach are three feasible paths for MICP. Decision makers should choose a compatible, efficient and economical way among them and develop an on-site solution based on engineering conditions. To further decrease the cost and energy consumption of the MICP technology, it is reasonable to make full use of industrial by-products or wastes and non-sterilized media. The prospective direction of this technology is to make construction more intelligent without human intervention, such as autogenous healing. To reach this destination, MICP could be coupled with other techniques like encapsulation and ductile fibers. MICP is undoubtfully a mainstream engineering technology for the future, while ecological balance, environmental impact and industrial applicability should still be cautiously treated in its real practice.

Hydraulic Conductivity of Soils: A Comprehensive Review of the Impacts of Chemicals, Soil Salinity, Organic Matter, and Land Use

“…Bio-clogging is a promising technique for controlling preferential flow during in-situ groundwater remediation. However, its application needs to be carefully designed and monitored to avoid creating long-term problems for the subsurface environment [13], [14].…”

A Machine Learning-Based Decision Support System for Predicting and Repairing Cracks in Undisturbed Loess Using Microbial Mineralization and the Internet of Things

“…The mechanisms, materials, and technical qualities related to each application of MICP, as well as their different engineering applications, have all been covered in-depth by Yuze et al [9]. Furthermore, Kuan et al [10] have also discussed an addressed the principles of MICP technology as it examines the viability of MICP in several industries including geotechnical, geological, and environmental engineering.…”

“…In addition, MICP may also be used for repairing infrastructure in the context of bridges and tunnels, as well as other existing infrastructure. The soil may be stabilized and the structure reinforced by adding calcium carbonate and bacteria to the soil around the structure [10]. By stabilizing the soil and reducing the effect of waves, MICP can be used to stop coastal erosion.…”

Microbial Biomineralization of Alkaline Earth Metal Carbonates on 3D-Printed Surfaces

“…Microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) has emerged as a versatile technology with a wide array of applications across multiple disciplines. In the fields of civil and environmental engineering, MICP has been extensively explored for infrastructure reinforcement self-remediation − and the mitigation of climate change effects through carbon dioxide capture and solidification into carbonate sediments. , Despite the considered interest garnered by MICP, its versatility, and its wide range of applications (see refs in), there has been relatively less attention to applications that go beyond geoengineering applications, such as surface coating − or bioinspired material design. For example, the mineralizing bacterium Myxococcus xanthus-induced calcium carbonate (CaCO 3 , polymorph calcite) precipitation has been applied to thin coatings for artifact protection by making use of crystal epitaxial growth of calcite on preexisting calcite/limestone grains.…”