In the quest for sustainable and cost-effective solutions to stabilize sandy soils, a groundbreaking study published in the journal *Sustainable Structures* (formerly known as *Sustainable Structures and Materials*) has introduced a promising alternative to traditional methods. Led by Sumonthip Kongtunjanphuk from the Department of Biotechnology at King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok, the research explores the use of *Bacillus thuringiensis* in Microbially Induced Calcium Carbonate Precipitation (MICP) for sand stabilization in neutral pH environments. This innovation could have significant implications for the energy sector, particularly in offshore wind, oil and gas, and other industries where soil stabilization is critical.
Most MICP studies have focused on ureolytic bacteria, which thrive in alkaline conditions. However, Kongtunjanphuk’s research addresses a critical gap by investigating *Bacillus thuringiensis TISTR 126*, a non-alkali-tolerant bacterium that is cost-effective, widely available, non-pathogenic, and suitable for neutral pH environments. “This bacterium offers a sustainable and viable alternative to traditional ureolytic bacteria, broadening the scope of MICP applications,” Kongtunjanphuk explains.
The study delves into the effects of nutrient availability and calcium chloride (CaCl2) on calcium carbonate formation and the mechanical properties of sand. By optimizing the cementation solution, the researchers achieved a 12.1% increase in sand density, a ten-fold reduction in water permeability, and an unconfined compressive strength (UCS) of approximately 339.6 kPa. The highest cementation ratio produced an internal friction angle of 48°, indicating a dense structure.
These findings are particularly relevant for the energy sector, where soil stabilization is crucial for the construction of offshore wind farms, oil and gas platforms, and other infrastructure. “The ability to stabilize sandy soils in neutral pH environments using a non-pathogenic bacterium like *Bacillus thuringiensis* could revolutionize the way we approach soil stabilization in the energy sector,” says Kongtunjanphuk.
The research not only addresses the critical gap in nutrient optimization for MICP processes but also introduces *Bacillus thuringiensis* as a viable, sustainable, and non-pathogenic alternative to traditional ureolytic bacteria. This innovation could pave the way for more environmentally friendly and cost-effective soil stabilization techniques, ultimately benefiting the energy sector and other industries that rely on stable soil foundations.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the need for sustainable and innovative solutions becomes increasingly important. Kongtunjanphuk’s research offers a glimpse into the future of soil stabilization, highlighting the potential of *Bacillus thuringiensis* in MICP processes. With further research and development, this technology could become a game-changer in the field of soil stabilization, offering a sustainable and cost-effective solution for the energy sector and beyond.