An overview of techniques based on biomimetics for sustainable development of concrete

Biomimetics is a field of science that studies biological processes for effectively using them in the development of innovative engineering materials and systems. It is a new field of emergence in materials science and engineering in which lessons learned from biology form the basis for evolution of novel technological materials. Biomimetics is finding application in diverse areas ranging from micro/nano electronics to civil/structural engineering. This article presents a critical review of the literature on biomimetics in civil engineering and its application for the development of sustainable materials in the construction industry. It includes various methodologies such as biodeposition, which has influenced material evolution, and biomineralization, which is a complex phenomenon by which organisms form minerals seen in various geothermal systems. The article deals with the initial usage of Bacillus pasteurii for filling up the pores for crack remediation and research work on it by changing the nutrient source and strain improvement of the same towards increasing the strength of concrete. The article also discusses a new type of thermophilic anaerobic microorganism belonging to Shewanella species, which when added to concrete, has shown to increase the strength of the concrete. This is due to growth of filler material within the pores of the cement–sand matrix. Thus, there is ample scope for development of biomimetics-based sustainable construction materials.