About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
2026 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
|
| Symposium
|
Biological Materials Science
|
| Presentation Title |
Exploring Microbial Application to Repair Concrete Structures |
| Author(s) |
Nancy Merino, Nicole Butler, Hongyan Ma, Farah Merchant, Yusuke Otani, Leila Sun, Jihui Qin, Yasuo Yoshikuni, Amy Wat |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Nancy Merino |
| Abstract Scope |
Microbial repair of concrete structures is an emerging technology that leverages microorganisms to seal cracks. We explored a sealing technique using microbial-induced calcite precipitation (MICP) within a casting suspension. The two main objectives were to evaluate: (1) the feasibility of our technique and (2) vascularization approaches to fill-in cracks. We demonstrate that MICP is viable in cementitious environments using isolated strains and genetically-engineered bacteria. Some bacteria were compatible with fungal vascularization to fill-in cracks. Broadly, this work advances our understanding of applying microorganisms to heal existing concrete structures. Prepared by LLNL under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344 IM#:LLNL-ABS-2008007. This research was developed with funding from the DARPA as part of the Bio-inspired Restoration of Aged Concrete Edifices (BRACE) program (HR001122S0029). The views, opinions and/or findings expressed are those of the author and should not be interpreted as representing the official views or policies of the Department of Defense or the U.S. Government. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: |
| Keywords |
Biomaterials, Composites, |