Bio Inspired Geotechnical Applications to Launch Pan-European Solutions

Introduction

BIGALPS aims at creating a market breakthrough in the soil stabilization field by offering a unique bio-technology for soil treatment. This solution is a complete environmentally friendly approach with the capacity to address some of the most critical soil stability problems related to current societal challenges, such as:

• Landslides
• Erosion
• Foundation soil stabilization

Bio-Cementation Technology

Bio-cementation is an innovative, nature-inspired soil improvement technique. It is based on the metabolic activity of microorganisms that produce calcium carbonate, which binds the soil particles together.

Environmental Impact

The technology has the potential to substitute energy-intensive and polluting soil improvement methods currently available. These traditional methods are often hazardous to the natural environment, thereby contributing to climate change mitigation and adaptation.

Project Background

The project builds upon two previous ERC projects (Advanced ERC and Proof of Concept) that facilitated the development of three patents. BIGALPS is the natural continuation of these previous accomplishments and aims to further mature and validate the bio-cementation technology.

Objectives

The project will focus on achieving full compatibility with:

• Real environments
• Existing norms
• Industry standards

Additionally, it will explore the most efficient business model.

Goals

The work will address two interconnected objectives:

1. Mature and validate the bio-cementation technology in solving real engineering problems related to current societal needs (landslides, erosion, and foundation soil stabilization).
2. Achieve market uptake as an alternative to traditional cement-based soil improvement techniques.

Pilot Sites

Three pilot sites will be used to mature and demonstrate the technology in real environments. This will also facilitate the introduction of the technology in specific markets of Europe, with direct feedback and assistance from key industry players.

Conclusion

The ultimate goal is to have a market-ready solution that is investment-ready and “de-risked.” This will create a market breakthrough and position BIGALPS to grow into the next big thing in geo-technical and geo-environmental engineering.