How does self-healing concrete repair cracks with the help of fungi?

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In the context of green architecture, self-healing concrete—often referred to as bio-concrete—is an innovative material designed to enhance the sustainability of construction projects by reducing the need for carbon-intensive cement repairs.1

When cracks develop in this specialized concrete, the incorporated fungi facilitate specific chemical reactions within the material. These reactions result in the formation of a solid deposit that effectively fills the fissures, thereby restoring the integrity of the structure. By enabling concrete to repair itself, this technology helps mitigate the environmental impact associated with traditional maintenance and the production of new cement.1

This approach aligns with broader goals in sustainable development, where civil engineers increasingly prioritize low-impact materials to reduce the overall carbon footprint of infrastructure.1