Optimization of a Binary Concrete Crack Self-Healing System Containing Bacteria and Oxygen

Abstract

An optimized strategy for the enhancement of microbially induced calcium precipitation including spore viability ensurance, nutrient selection and O2 supply was developed. Firstly, an optimal yeast extract concentration of 5 g/l in sporulation medium was determined based on viable spore yield and spore viability. Furthermore, the effects of certain influential factors on microbial calcium precipitation process of H4 in the presence of oxygen releasing tablet (ORT) were evaluated. The results showed that CaO2 is preferable to other peroxides in improving the calcium precipitation by H4. H4 strain is able to precipitate a highly insoluble calcium at the CaO2 dosage range of 7.5–12.5 g/l, and the most suitable spore concentration is 6 × 108 spores/ml when the spore viability (viable spore ratio) is approximately 50%. Lactate is the best carbon source and nitrate is the best nitrogen source for aerobic incubation. This work has laid a foundation of ternary self-healing system containing bacteria, ORT, and nutrients, which will be promising for the self-healing of cracks deep inside the concrete structure.

Keywords

• microbially induced calcium precipitation
• spore vialility
• oxygen supply
• self healing
• concrete crack
• Bacillus sp.