Bacterial Precipitation and CaCO3 Crystallization: Factors Influencing the Biomineralization Process and Products

Biomineralization is the process by which living organisms contribute to the formation of insoluble metal-ion deposits through their metabolic reactions with the environment. One of the most common biominerals on Earth is calcium carbonate, which is formed by various organisms during the process of mineralization. These biominerals have unique properties that differ from inorganic minerals, including their degree of crystallinity, isotopic and trace-element composition, and polymorphic structure. This review will explore the role of bacterial cell walls and extracellular macromolecules in the biomineralization process, as well as present the main hypotheses on how microbial cells and their components initiate this process. Additionally, we discuss the conditions for the formation of a wide range of calcium carbonate polymorphs and their stability within biological systems. Understanding the mechanisms and dynamics of biomineralization is crucial for scientific and technological innovation, as it allows us to better understand microbial ecology and biogeochemical cycles. This knowledge could open up new opportunities for the creation of innovative materials and technologies.