Self-healing bio-concrete is a type of concrete that contains dormant bacteria capable of activating and sealing micro-cracks upon exposure to moisture.
This technology addresses the issue of structural integrity degradation in concrete infrastructure due to micro-crack propagation over time, reducing maintenance costs and extending the lifespan of buildings and other structures.
The concrete mixture incorporates spores of the bacterium Bacillus pasteurii, which remain inactive until water penetrates the cracks. Upon contact with water, these bacteria germinate and metabolize limestone (calcium carbonate) from their surroundings to form calcite, effectively plugging the crack.
The manufacturing process involves blending conventional cement with a controlled amount of dormant bacteria spores. The mixture is then cured under standard conditions before being poured into molds or applied as needed.
During construction, self-healing bio-concrete is typically cast in place like regular concrete but requires careful handling to maintain the viability of the bacterial spores until installation and curing are complete.
Field units draw low hundreds of watts; fabrication is energy-intensive due to vacuum baking required for spore activation and long-term stability.
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