Microbially assisted cementation - A biotechnological approach to improve mechanical properties of cement

Microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICCP) is a promising technology used in various engineering applications. Urease produced by soil microorganisms hydrolyses urea, producing carbon dioxide which forms calcium carbonate in presence of calcium ions, which gets precipitated and enhances the mechanical properties of cementitious materials. An attempt was made to enhance the properties of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) using soil microbial solution with lentil seed (Lens culinaris) powder as protein source and sugar as carbon source. Bio-OPC specimens using microbial solution instead of water were prepared. Significant increase in compressive strength was observed in bio-OPC specimens as compared to the specimens prepared using water.