The utilization of microbial-induced calcite precipitation (MICP) as a biotechnological approach is widely recognized for its potential in the development of sustainable construction materials, such as soil enhancement, concrete repair, biocement production, and improvement of waste materials. In soil improvement, MICP is used to bind soil particles together, enhancing strength and reducing permeability. For concrete repair, MICP is utilized for sealing the cracks and enhancing durability. In biocement production, MICP combines bacteria with a calcium source and nutrient solution to form a cement-like material. Also, MICP is used to improve the strength and durability of recycled aggregates.

Although MICP is widely used for enhancing the durability and sustainability of construction materials, certain challenges for MICP application in construction materials should be addressed. These include controlling and ensuring consistency in the CaCO₃ precipitation process, understanding the long-term performance and durability of MICP-treated materials, scaling up the technology from laboratory to field applications, managing costs associated with bacteria, nutrients, and monitoring equipment, ensuring compatibility with other construction materials, and addressing potential environmental impacts. Overcoming these challenges will be crucial for realizing the full potential of MICP in improving the performance and sustainability of construction materials.

Research Topic aims to provide a platform for scientists to present their new research findings or advances on MICP, and also a good chance to communicate with each other, in order to promote the application of MICP in construction materials. In this Research Topic, Original Research articles and Reviews are welcome. Research areas include, for example, outstanding applications of MICP for improving the performance of construction materials.

Potential topics include but are not limited to the following:
• MICP application in crack healing of construction materials;
• Durability of self-healing concrete with MICP technology;
• MICP methods for improving the performance of recycled aggregates;
• MICP methods for improving the performance of soil;
• Machine learning-aided prediction of MICP-based construction materials;
• Biotechnology products in construction materials;
• Catalytic controlling methods in MICP processes;
• MICP micro-scale to MICP macro-scale properties;
• Novel characterization methods for MICP process.

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Frontiers in Materials

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