Enzyme Induced Carbonate Precipitation: Biocemented Sand with Moderate Strength and Reduced Cure Time

Jacoby V, Edward

Student Work

Enzyme Induced Carbonate Precipitation: Biocemented Sand with Moderate Strength and Reduced Cure Time

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This project combined the enzymatic functions of carbonic anhydrase, the strength and binding capabilities of a calcium carbonate precipitate, and various fine-grained sizes of sand as an aggregate to create net carbon negative biocemented soil columns and beams. Biocementation was achieved through the curing of a chemical solution containing calcium chloride dihydrate, tris buffer, and carbonic anhydrase which resulted in the precipitate formation of calcium carbonate. Trials also studied the effects of including non-fat milk powder as a supplement to calcium chloride dihydrate in the chemical solution. Testing of biocemented soil columns and beams consisted of unconfined compressive strength testing and four-point flexural tests respectively.

This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

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