International Journal of Science, Engineering and TechnologyAuthors: Puppala Harish Kumar, N. Sriaknth
Abstract: The durability and service life of conventional concrete structures are significantly compromised by the formation of microcracks, which facilitate the ingress of water and aggressive agents. This experimental study investigates the feasibility and performance of self-healing concrete incorporating bacterial additives as a sustainable crack remediation technique. A ureolytic bacterial strain capable of inducing calcium carbonate precipitation was introduced into concrete mixes using a suitable carrier medium. The self-healing efficiency was evaluated through controlled crack induction followed by curing under favorable environmental conditions. Mechanical properties, including compressive strength, split tensile strength, and flexural strength, were assessed and compared with those of conventional concrete. Crack healing performance was examined using visual inspection, water permeability tests, and microscopic analysis. The results indicate a notable enhancement in crack closure and a significant reduction in water permeability in bacterial concrete specimens. Additionally, bacterial incorporation contributed to improved long-term mechanical strength due to bio-mineralization and pore refinement. The study demonstrates that bacterial self-healing concrete offers an effective, eco-friendly solution for improving structural durability, reducing maintenance requirements, and extending the service life of concrete infrastructure. The findings highlight the potential of bio-based materials as a promising advancement toward sustainable construction practices.
