Effect of microbial protein additive on micostructural characteristics of concrete

Title: Effect of microbial protein additive on micostructural characteristics of concrete
Author(s): B. Chattopadhyay, M. Biswas, S. Mandal, H.M. Jonkers, G. Ye
Paper category : conference
Book title: International Conference on Microstructure Related Durability of Cementitious Composites
Editor(s): W. Sun, K. van Breugel, C. Miao, G. Ye and H. Chen
Print-ISBN: 978-2-35158-065-3
e-ISBN: 978-2-35158-084-4
Publisher: RILEM Publications
Publication year: 2008
Pages: 263 - 271
Total Pages: 9
Nb references: 16
Language: English

Abstract: Reinforcement corrosion and crack formation are the major causes of limiting the durability or lifetime of concrete structures. A variety of additives or replacements of cement can be applied in order to improve the durability of the concrete. Cracking causes early deterioration of concrete what can be minimized by microbial-induced sealing or plugging of the cracks. This study was designed to describe the impact of a novel microbial protein on strength and microstructure characteristics of cement paste and mortar. The results presented in this article suggest that the novel microbial protein isolated from a Hot spring bacterium can be effective to increase the compressive strength and other physical properties of the cement paste and mortar. Microstructure analysis by ESEM and EDX show more hydration of the cement particles and increase of the calcium/silicon ratio of the CSH gel within the matrix in presence of the protein. The observed changes in micro-structural characteristics of the protein-amended cement paste, particularly with respect to increased uniformity of the matrix components, is reflected by strength improvement. This protein-amended cement-based biomaterial may be used for increasing durability and crack healing of concrete constructions in the future.

Online publication: 2009-06-09
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros): 0.00