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International Journal of Advanced Engineering Application

ISSN: 3048-6807

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Bio-Mineralization and Microbial Carbonate Precipitation for Self-Healing Urban Infrastructure

Author(s):Arjun Mehta, Rajeshwari Iyer, Ananya Chatterjee

Affiliation: Department of Structural Engineering, Harcourt Butler Technical University (HBTU), Kanpur

Page No: 62-65

Volume issue & Publishing Year: Volume 3, Issue 2, 2026-02-28

Journal: International Journal of Advanced Engineering Application (IJAEA)

ISSN NO: 3048-6807

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18816089

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Abstract:
The rapid deterioration of urban concrete infrastructure in India due to monsoon-induced cracking and rebar corrosion has reached a critical threshold in 2026. Traditional repair methods are labor-intensive and often fail to address internal micro-cracks. This paper investigates the engineering of Self-Healing Concrete utilizing Microbially Induced Carbonate Precipitation (MICP). By encapsulating Bacillus pseudofirmus spores within porous clay aggregates, we created a "living" structural matrix that remains dormant until structural fissuring occurs. Upon the ingress of moisture, the bacteria metabolize calcium precursors to precipitate Calcite ($CaCO_3$), effectively sealing cracks up to 0.8 mm in width. Our results demonstrate a 92% recovery in water-tightness and a significant extension of structural service life. This study provides a technical framework for autonomous infrastructure maintenance, supporting the transition toward resilient "Smart Cities" in the Indian urban landscape.

Keywords: Bio-Mineralization, MICP, Self-Healing Concrete, Urban Infrastructure, Bacillus pseudofirmus, Structural Integrity, Sustainable Construction, Indian Smart Cities

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