Isolation and selection of spore-forming bacilli with potential for self-healing of concrete

Abstract The self-healing of concrete through the use of bacteria is an ecological, sustainable, and environmentally friendly method that can replace time-consuming and costly repairs. The aim of this research was to isolate and select spore-forming bacilli with potential for concrete self-healing. Soil samples from the limestone mines of Simbal, Trujillo, La Libertad, Peru were used. These samples were processed to primarily isolate spore-forming bacteria. The self-healing potential of these bacteria was evaluated through their ability to produce the urease enzyme, grow at an alkaline pH, and produce calcium carbonate crystals in a culture medium with urea and CaCl2 at pH 8.0. The produced crystals were visualized with scanning electron microscopy and their calcium content was confirmed through EDS analysis. The isolated bacteria were identified by 16 S rRNA gene amplification by PCR as Bacillus sp and Streptomyces sp. It was observed that Bacillus sp. produces CaCO3 crystals with vaterite morphology, while Streptomyces sp. produces rhombohedral calcite crystals. It is concluded that the isolated bacteria have the potential to be used in concrete self-healing processes.