How bioengineered concrete is slowly transforming construction

The article discusses the development and application of bioengineered, self-healing concrete as a transformative innovation in construction. Concrete, despite being the most widely used building material globally, is prone to cracking and deterioration, leading to costly and carbon-intensive repairs. Researchers at the University of Bath, led by Professor Kevin Paine, are pioneering a “smart concrete” that incorporates dormant bacteria and nutrients within the concrete mix. When cracks form and moisture penetrates, these bacteria activate and metabolize compounds to produce limestone, which fills and heals the cracks naturally. This microbiologically induced calcite precipitation (MICP) process mimics biological self-repair mechanisms and offers a sustainable alternative to traditional maintenance. The key challenge addressed by the Bath team is protecting the bacteria during the harsh mixing and curing processes, which are typically lethal to microbes. Their solution involves micro-encapsulation of bacterial spores and nutrients within protective carriers, such as coated perlite beads, allowing the bacteria to remain dormant until activated by crack-induced moisture.