The Role of Microbially Induced Calcite Precipitation in the Liquefaction Mitigation of Sandy Soils
The Research Project
Soil liquefaction is a geotechnical phenomenon triggered by strong shaking from earthquakes or other ground vibrations causing significant loss of soil strength and stiffness. The phenomenon often leads to disastrous damages of buildings and infrastructure and many casualties. Liquefaction risk can be mitigated by various methods such as soil densification, groundwater control, and cement injection. However, these methods are costly, energy-consuming, and contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. A promising alternative is microbially induced calcite precipitation (MICP), also known as biocementation, which is based on the use of urease-producing bacteria that catalyze calcite production to naturally and sustainably improve soil properties.
The effectiveness of MICP in increasing soil liquefaction resistance has been widely researched under controlled laboratory conditions, but the practical implementation of this soil treatment technique in the field is still limited by some unknowns. In my research project at RUB, I will mainly focus on the improvement of the liquefaction resistance of sandy soils through MICP by conducting large-scale experiments in our laboratory. The objective of this research is to investigate how the variety of initial soil and field conditions affect the MICP process and the liquefaction resistance of the treated soil using both experimental and numerical models. Our goal is to develop the model in a flexible way so that it can be used for a wide range of soil types and conditions in the future.
What I need the IRB for
As a first-year PhD student, I am seeking opportunities to expand my knowledge on my research topic in order to gain a clear understanding of the steps required during my research work.
Due to the high flexibility IRB provides, it will be a valuable reward for me to take advantage of a variety of international opportunities such as conferences or workshops and collaborating with prestigious institutions immediately without any financial concerns. In addition, the flexibility will enable me to seize opportunities as they arise and make the most of international research advances. It will also help me to plan my international activities based on my project progress and requirements.
IRB funded activities
Conference stay in Tempe, Arizona, USA (May 18-20, 2025)
Thanks to the IRB funding from RUB Research School, I had the valuable opportunity to attend the International Conference on Bio-mediated and Bio-inspired Geotechnics (ICBBG) in Tempe, Arizona, USA, from May 18–20, 2025. During the conference, I presented part of the results from my PhD research and had the chance to engage in insightful discussions with leading experts in the field. The event also provided an excellent platform to increase the visibility of our work and to learn about the latest developments in biomediated and bio-inspired geotechnics.
Beyond the scientific exchange, the trip was a memorable experience. Tempe’s famously hot weather, together with the iconic Arizona cacti and striking desert landscape, made the visit particularly unique. I am very grateful for the support of the IRB funding, which made this enriching scientific and personal experience possible.