At Delft University in the Netherlands, an experimental micro-mechanic has spent 7 years developing self healing concrete with the use of bacteria. Live bacteria is injected inside the concrete during the concrete mix…and as cracks form they produce calcite which then closes the cracks.
More about this work:
Prevention is better than cure, and that applies to the construction industry too. Buildings, however, are exposed to the elements for years, even centuries, on end. Air, changes in temperature and, especially, moisture can weaken even the sturdiest of materials over time. However, there is a new generation of materials that can repair itself. That is less expensive than putting up a new building, and better for the environment. Enter the self-healing concrete.
Source: http://www.tudelft.nl/samenwerken/patenten-vitrine/tu-delft-patent-portfolio/self-healing-concrete/
