APPLICABILITY OF CONCRETE TREATED WITH SELF-HEALING BACTERIAL AGENTS

In this fast developing world, the face of the earth has transformed from a jungle to a concrete jungle. These concrete structures provide the concrete foundation for the development of a country. Large skyscrapers have emerged as the glory of the town. However, concrete has its limits with respect to durability and long term sustainability. Crack formation micro as well as macro is a major issue, these cracks eventually lead to formation of fractures and fissures, resulting in collapse and accident. Concrete treated with healing bacteria, Bacilla pseudofirmus, Sarconima pasteurii, proves an exceptional solution both for preplanning new projects and renovation of existing structures as a part of post planning. Healing of cracks occurs in 3-4 weeks just after formation of cracks, when the bacteria are exposed to moisture. The bacterium fills the cracks effectively by formation of limestone. Thus, subsequent to healing, the structural strength is retained. This method of self healing concrete also provides an ingenious method for production of concrete bricks/blocks. Due to its better durability, it proves to be a better alternative than the conventional counterparts. Moreover, existing method of brick production utilizing the kilns are contributing towards rise in pollution levels, should bricks prepared from self healing concrete be used, pollution levels can be virtually zero.