Use of mixed microbial cultures to protect recycled concrete surfaces: A preliminary study

Lorena Serrano-González, Daniel Merino-Maldonado, Manuel Ignacio Guerra-Romero, Julia María Morán Del Pozo, Paulo Costa Lemos, Alice Santos Pereira, Paulina Faria, Julia García-González, Andrés Juan-Valdés

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)
9 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

One approach to tackle the problems created by the vast amounts of construction and demolition waste (CDW) generated worldwide while at the same time lengthening concrete durability and service life is to foster the use of recycled aggregate (RA) rather than natural aggregate (NA). This article discusses the use of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs)-producing mixed microbial cultures (MMCs) to treat the surface of recycled concrete with a view to increase its resistance to watermediated deterioration. The microorganisms were cultured in a minimal medium using waste pinewood bio-oil as a carbon source. Post-application variations in substrate permeability were determined with the water drop absorption and penetration by water under pressure tests. The significant reduction in water absorption recorded reveals that this bioproduct is a promising surface treatment for recycled concrete.

Original languageEnglish
Article number6545
JournalMaterials
Volume14
Issue number21
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Nov 2021

Keywords

  • Construction and demolition waste (CDW)
  • Mixed microbial cultures (MMCs)
  • Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs)
  • Recycled concrete
  • Surface treatment
  • Waterproof

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Use of mixed microbial cultures to protect recycled concrete surfaces: A preliminary study'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this