Bio-based bacterial concrete: a sustainable alternative in construction

Abstract Bio-based bacterial concrete is a sustainable alternative to conventional concrete in the construction industry. It covers various topics, including production processes, benefits, challenges, and performance evaluations. The roles of bacterial species in calcium carbonate precipitation are explored, along with strategies such as encapsulation, biomineralization, and genetic engineering. Bio-based bacterial concrete offers advantages such as self-healing properties and increased strength, contributing to environmentally friendly construction practices and efforts to mitigate climate change. However, challenges and limitations exist in the use of bacterial concrete in construction projects, particularly in terms of cost and controlling bacterial activity. Finding ways to control bacterial activity is essential for maintaining optimal conditions, timing self-healing, and addressing unintended consequences such as biofouling. Overcoming these challenges requires research into cost-effective production methods, precise control strategies, and strict quality control measures to ensure the reliability and effectiveness of bacterial concrete in real-world applications. Real-world applications and performance evaluations of bio-based bacterial concrete demonstrate its potential in infrastructure projects. These evaluations highlight its effectiveness in self-healing, durability, and environmental sustainability compared to traditional concrete. While the results are promising, further research is necessary to optimize the technology and overcome practical challenges for widespread adoption. Future directions in bacterial concrete research involve exploring emerging trends in eco-friendly materials, potential improvements, and innovations. Additionally, identifying research gaps and areas for further investigation, along with standardization efforts, are crucial for ensuring the quality and reliability of bacterial concrete.