MICROBIAL-INDUCED CALCIUM CARBONATE PRECIPITATION FOR SOIL IMPROVEMENT

Abstract

Microbial-Induced Calcium Carbonate Precipitation (MICP) is a promising biotechnological approach for soil improvement. This process involves the use of microorganisms to catalyze the precipitation of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) in soil. The microbes, commonly bacteria like Sporosarcina pasteurii, facilitate urease-mediated reactions that convert urea into ammonia and carbonate ions, which then react with calcium ions present in the soil to form CaCO₃. The precipitate increases soil strength, reduces permeability, and enhances stability, making it an effective alternative to traditional soil stabilization methods.