Bio-cementation is a new sustainable approach that has gained popularity due to its low energy and carbon dioxide footprint compared with those of existing technologies for geotechnical and geoenvironmental engineering applications. Bio-cementation is a soil improvement technique that involves binding the pore space of soil particles with calcium carbonate minerals by microbially induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) and filling the soil pore space. The purpose of this paper is to present the current state of the art and a comprehensive discussion on the development of bio-cementation for soil improvement/reinforcement. Premixing, injection, immersing and surface percolation are identified as four distinct bio-cementation treatment techniques. Furthermore, scholars have reported employing ureolytic bacteria such as Sporosarcina pasteurii, Bacillus sphaericus and Lysinibacillus sphaericus isolated from corals, limestone caves, soils, waste materials, seawater and other sources to accomplish effective bio-cementation. Some of the major issues (bacterial cultivation costs and ammonium production) that impede its industrial potential and promising remedial techniques are also discussed. This state-of-the-art review also discusses the benefits and drawbacks of bio-cementation compared with traditional approaches. The significance of enzyme-induced carbonate precipitation as a soil bio-cementation alternative to MICP is also highlighted. Finally, the sustainable procedure, bio-cementation principles and future implications are discussed.

Microbial-induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) is a promising bioremediation technology for heavy metal immobilisation. This review explores the applications and efficacy of MICP in environmental challenges. It provides a comprehensive overview of the mechanism, primarily through ureolysis, detailing the process from urea hydrolysis to heavy metal precipitation as carbonate minerals. Alternative pathways such as photosynthesis and nitrate reduction are also discussed, highlighting the broad applicability of MICP. The review covers the historical evolution and advancements of MICP as a sustainable solution for heavy metal contamination. Recent studies demonstrate the efficiency of MICP in achieving high removal rates in diverse environments. The sustainable operation, precise targeting of heavy metal species, and versatility of MICP are examined. Challenges such as high copper concentrations, acidic conditions, and cost considerations are addressed. The article provides future directions and solutions to these challenges, including leveraging machine learning for optimal performance and enhancing cost considerations through detailed analyses. This review improves understanding of MICP’s potential, provides a valuable resource for researchers in environmental engineering and the built environment, and encourages innovative approaches within these fields.

Sequential Anaerobic-Aerobic Phase Strategy Using Microbial Granular Sludge for Textile Wastewater Treatment | InTechOpen, Published on: 2013-04-30. Authors: Khalida Muda, Azmi Aris, Mohd Razman Salim, et