Home⇛LPU-Laguna Journal of Engineering and Computer Studies⇛vol. 5 no. 3 (2023)

Biocementation of Indigenous Microorganisms (Imo) on Cylindrical Soil Samples as Basis of Soil Improvement Technique Through Microbially Induced Calcite Precipitation (Micp)

Carlo Jay H. Dacpano | Kitty Faye A. De Lima | Ryan P. Javier | Kyle Joshua B. Opeña | Princess Mae D. Robles

Discipline: Biotechnology

 

Abstract:

Expansive soils pose significant challenges in geotechnical engineering due to their high plasticity, volume instability, and low shear strength, which often lead to structural distress and foundation failure. Conventional stabilization methods, such as chemical and mechanical treatments, are effective but are increasingly criticized for their environmental impact, cost, and sustainability limitations. In response, this study investigates a bio- mediated alternative using Microbially Induced Calcite Precipitation (MICP) through Indigenous Microorganisms (IMO) for soil stabilization. The research evaluated the compressive strength improvement of cylindrical soil samples treated with varying concentrations of microbial culture and cementation solutions over a 10-day curing period. Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) tests were conducted on both untreated and treated samples to assess changes in soil strength and behavior. Results show a consistent increase in compressive strength with increasing microbial treatment dosage. Untreated soil exhibited very soft subgrade characteristics (2.73 psi), while treated samples improved progressively from soft to stiff subgrade conditions, reaching up to 27.57 psi. The findings indicate that microbial activity facilitated calcium carbonate precipitation, enhancing particle bonding, reducing void spaces, and improving overall soil stiffness. A positive correlation was observed between culture solution volume and UCS improvement, confirming the effectiveness of IMO-based bio-cementation in strengthening expansive soils. This study demonstrates that MICP using Indigenous Microorganisms is a promising, sustainable, and locally applicable soil stabilization technique. It provides an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional methods and supports further exploration for field-scale implementation and optimization in geotechnical engineering applications.



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