When bacteria become masons
ETH Zurich researchers have developed a method to use bacteria to bind sand into solid architectural elements, creating a low‑energy alternative to cement. By combining microbiologically induced calcite precipitation with 3D printing and robotic spraying, they can produce free‑form structures and surfaces that harden at room temperature. The process, which takes two to five days, relies on bacteria breaking down urea to form calcium carbonate that interlocks sand grains.
ETH Zurich researchers have developed a method to use bacteria to bind sand into solid architectural elements, creating a low‑energy alternative to cement. By combining microbiologically induced calcite precipitation with 3D printing and robotic spraying, they can produce free‑form structures and surfaces that harden at room temperature. The process, which takes two to five days, relies on bacteria breaking down urea to form calcium carbonate that interlocks sand grains.
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