Bacterial Healing Concrete

Cracks in concrete structures pose a significant threat to their durability and safety, often leading to costly maintenance and repair. This study introduces a novel approach using Bacillus subtilis bacteria to develop a self-healing concrete that autonomously repairs cracks through microbial-induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP). Our research focuses on integrating bacterial spores and nutrients into the concrete mix, enabling biological crack repair when exposed to water and oxygen. The proposed method aims to enhance structural longevity, reduce environmental impact, and minimize the need for conventional repair materials. The experimental design involved simulating crack formation and observing healing behavior under controlled conditions. Due to the unavailability of laboratory access, a conceptual prototype was developed to demonstrate the feasibility and application of this bio-concrete. Results from existing literature were studied and adapted to estimate healing efficiency, compressive strength retention, and environmental benefits. Our findings suggest that bacterial concrete can significantly improve the lifespan of structures, especially in remote or infrastructure-critical environments. Beyond the scientific impact, the solution is cost-effective, scalable, and aligns with sustainable development goals by promoting green construction. The study also includes a detailed feasibility analysis, potential market applications, and a proposed business model for large-scale deployment. This work highlights the promise of biotechnology in civil engineering and opens pathways for future research into eco-friendly, intelligent building materials.