A review on the applications of microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation in solid waste treatment and soil remediation

Improper disposal and accumulation of solid waste can cause a number of environmental problems, such as the heavy metal contamination of soil. Microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) is considered as a promising technology to solve many environmental problems. Calcium-based solid waste can be utilized as an alternative source of calcium for the MICP process, and carbonate-based biominerals can be used for soil remediation, solid waste treatment, remediation of construction concrete, and generation of bioconcrete. This paper describes the metabolic pathways and mechanisms of microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation and highlights the value of MICP for solid waste treatment and soil remediation applications. The factors affecting the effectiveness of MICP are discussed and analyzed through an overview of recent studies on the application of MICP in environmental engineering. The paper also summarizes the current challenges for the large-scale application of this innovative technology. In prospective study, MICP can be an effective alternative to conventional technologies in solid waste treatment, soil remediation and CO2 sequestration, as it can reduce negative environmental impacts and provide long-term economic benefits.