Build Resilience in Wastewater Infrastructure with Self-Healing Bioconcrete

Abstract:: This DECRA project aims to develop an innovative microbial self-healing bio-concrete to significantly extend the service life of wastewater collection and treatment facilities using a holistic and multidisciplinary approach. This proposed technology is based on microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation by indigenous bacteria used for wastewater treatment. The bacteria, as an admixture in bio-concrete, can fill cracks or reseal corroded areas with the in situ generation of concrete using organic substrates from wastewater, thus maintaining the structural strength and preventing further damage. This project is significant by enhancing the resilience and sustainability of wastewater infrastructure in ever more demanding environments.
Grant type:: ARC Discovery Early Career Researcher Award
Funded by:: Australian Research Council

The University of Queensland