Spore-Loaded Aggregate for Low-Energy Biocementation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for large-scale manufacture of biologically-created construction materials through microbial induced calcite precipitation (MICP) lack standardization, leading to inconsistencies and inefficiencies in production.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the use of an aqueous medium to promote spore formation in viable spore-forming bacteria, mixing spores with aggregate particles, and concentrating the mixture to create a spore-loaded aggregate, which is then combined with urea and calcium to form calcium carbonate structures, allowing for standardized and efficient production of construction materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by stationary object
If traditional brick and concrete construction methods are used, then construction materials can be produced with established processes, but massive amounts of energy resources are consumed and carbon dioxide emissions are generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional thermal/chemical construction processes with a biological system. Microorganisms (bacteria or fungi) are used to naturally bind aggregate particles together through biological mechanisms rather than high-temperature heating or chemical cementation, thereby substituting mechanical/thermal systems with a biological system that operates at ambient conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The microorganisms in the composition autonomously perform the binding function without requiring external energy input or complex manufacturing processes. The biological agents self-organize and self-bind the aggregate particles through their natural metabolic activities, eliminating the need for energy-intensive manufacturing steps
2Productivity
If microbial induced calcite precipitation is used to manufacture construction materials, then energy consumption is reduced and environmental impact is minimized, but the process lacks standardization leading to inconsistencies in production
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-formulating standardized compositions that include aggregate particles, microorganisms, and necessary nutrients in predetermined ratios and configurations. This pre-standardization of the initial composition ensures consistent microbial activity and binding performance across large-scale production, eliminating variability without requiring complex process controls
Solution Approach 2:
The patent controls and standardizes key parameters such as microorganism concentration, aggregate particle size distribution, nutrient composition, and moisture content to optimize and reproduce consistent results. By carefully controlling these parameters, the process achieves reliability and scalability while maintaining the simplicity of ambient-condition processing
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables consistent and economical production of construction materials with reduced energy consumption and environmental impact, as it allows for the creation of durable, locally sourced building materials with minimal heating requirements and reduced transportation costs.
Implementation Method 1
The enzyme catalyzes the production of ammonia and carbon dioxide, increasing the pH level of the composition
Implementation Method 2
The rise in pH forms a mineral 'precipitate,' combining calcium with carbon dioxide
Implementation Method 3
The mineral growth fills gaps between the sand particles biocementing or bonding them together
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is directed to compositions, tools and methods for the manufacture of construction materials, masonry, solid structures and compositions to facilitate dust control. More particularly, the invention is directed to the manufacture of bricks, masonry and other solid structures using small amount of aggregate material that is pre-loaded with spores and/or vegetative bacterial cells.