Optimization of in-situ microbially induced carbonate precipitation in heterogeneous porous media

• Applicant: Professor Dr.-Ing. Anozie Ebigbo
• Subject Area: Hydrogeology, Hydrology, Limnology, Urban Water Management, Water Chemistry, Integrated Water Resources Management
• Term: since 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 568788283

Microbially Induced Carbonate Precipitation (MICP) is a process in which microbial activity increases pH and carbon dioxide concentration in an aqueous medium, leading to the formation of carbonate minerals. This approach has significant applications in subsurface engineering, such as sealing cracks in degraded well cement for oil and gas wells, stabilizing soils, and constructing underground barriers to reduce aquifer permeability. However, implementing MICP in heterogeneous porous media, such as layered soils or fractured rocks, remains a challenge due to uneven microbial and reactant distribution. The OPTIMIC project aims to optimize MICP application in these complex environments by introducing biopolymers to improve fluid distribution, enhance biomineralization, and ensure controlled carbonate precipitation. Due to their high viscosity and shear-thinning properties, biopolymer-based fluids facilitate targeted injection. The project involves screening and selecting bacterial strains capable of efficiently inducing carbonate precipitation, along with compatible biopolymers that support microbial activity and mineral formation. To achieve these objectives, experiments will be conducted at multiple scales, from microfluidic setups and batch reactors to decimeter-scale columns and meter-scale 2D tanks packed with real sediments. These experimental studies will be complemented by numerical simulations spanning from pore-scale models to Darcy-scale flow processes, enabling a comprehensive understanding of MICP mechanisms. Given the complexity, uncertainty, and multi-scale nature of the process, this French-German collaboration integrates experimental and modeling approaches to develop robust and scalable solutions for subsurface engineering. This synergy will advance fundamental research while fostering practical applications of MICP in environmental and geotechnical contexts.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: France
• Cooperation Partners: Fabienne Battaglia-Brunet, Ph.D.; Daniel Chevrier, Ph.D.; Béatrice Colin, Ph.D.; Dorian Davarzani, Ph.D.; Dr. Malo Duportal; Dr. Emilie Gachon; Marc Jeannin, Ph.D.; Isabelle Lanneluc, Ph.D.; Professor Dr. Philippe Refait; Sophie Sablé, Ph.D.; Dr. Philippe Turcry