Enhancing the strength of granular material with a modified enzyme-induced carbonate precipitation (EICP) treatment solution

Abstract

Baseline and modified EICP solutions were used to treat four cohesionless materials. The modified solution (modified with powdered milk) resulted in enhanced strength in all four materials, though the magnitude of enhancement varied. Imagery showed the modification led to larger calcite crystals and a greater tendency to precipitate at inter-particle contact points. Test tube studies confirmed that the powdered milk led to stronger adhesion of precipitated carbonate to surfaces while having minimal impact on the reaction kinetics. As the modified solution increases the strength of a biocemented material, it reduces substrates required to achieve targeted strengths, reducing EICP treatment costs.