Soil reinforcement based on bio-geo-chemical processes: from laboratory insights to field applications

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Abstract

Among the non-conventional soil consolidation techniques, bio-mineralization has been a central focus of research for the past decade. At its core, Microbially Induced Calcium Carbonate Precipitation (MICP) is a multi-physical phenomenon, resulting in a natural CaCO3 bio-cement, capable of improving the mechanical properties of geomaterials. At the confluence of many disciplines, the technique is also proposed as a solution for a diverse range of geotechnical and geo-environmental applications. In order to better elucidate the fundamental mechanisms governing the process and thereby enabling better predictability and optimization, a holistic understanding of MICP is achieved through multiple levels of study, each with specific focuses and challenges, namely the microscopic, geotechnical laboratory and, field scales. A brief evaluation of the current state of MICP and its recent evolution is given in the lecture, followed by an overview of some recent milestones related to experimental and numerical campaigns at the three levels of characterization, before discussing new horizons and future developments.

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Short Curriculum

Liesse Laloui has dedicated much of his career to understanding the natural world for the benefit of society. His research and exploration of the mechanics of geomaterials and other geology have significantly contributed to our understanding of the physical mechanisms of these materials. From this, he has developed innovative and sustainable technologies for today and future generations. His efforts in areas such as sustainability, climate change, renewable energy, and the optimization of natural resources have been recognized and awarded by the European Research Council with an Advanced ERC grant in 2018, followed by an ERC Proof of Concept grant in 2020 and an ERC Transition grant from the European Innovation Council in 2023. In 2022, Laloui was recognized for his commitment to global sustainability with two honoris causae from Heriot-Watt University (UK) and the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca (Romania).  He is a member of the Swiss Academy of Engineering Sciences and he serves as the European Vice President of the International Society of Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering (ISSMGE) and the Director for Europe of the International Associated Research Centers for the Urban Underground Space (ACCUS). As founder and Honorary Editor-in-Chief of the Elsevier Geomechanics for Energy and the Environment Journal, he is a leading scientist in the field of geomechanics and geo-energy. His research portfolio includes 13 written and edited books and over 380 peer-reviewed papers. Two of his papers are among the top 1% in the field of Engineering.