Influence of bacteria megaterium on strength and durability properties of concrete partially substituted with metakaolin

Abstract

Concrete is one of the most used materials in the building sector. Inevitably, concrete gains strength and develops shrinkage cracks during the curing process. Shrinkage cracks provide an entry point for reactive fluids to get into the concrete core. Under favorable conditions, the fluids reduce the pH of the core and consequentially corrode the reinforcing bars. This research shows the use of Bacillus megaterium MTCC 3353, which produces calcium carbonate and closes the minute fissures. Part substitution of cement with metakaolin was also done in the study. It was seen that the bio-based concrete specimens enhanced the mechanical strength and durability parameters. The calcite precipitation was validated using a microstructure study. FESEM and XRD tests show the presence of calcite (calcium carbonate) inside the concrete structure. The bacteria were tested for their growth when superplasticizers were added to them. The bacteria showed normal growth compared to the conventional testing.