The Potential Of Living Concrete As A Sustainable Alternative For Regenerating Structures Exposed To Aggressive Environments: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Concrete is one of the most widely used construction materials worldwide; however, it is highly susceptible to cracking and long-term deterioration caused by mechanical stress, environmental exposure, and chemical aggression. Structural cracks compromise durability, permeability resistance, and reinforcement protection, resulting in costly maintenance interventions. Living concrete, also known as bio-concrete or self-healing concrete, has emerged as a promising biotechnological innovation capable of autonomously repairing cracks through biologically induced calcium carbonate precipitation. This review presents a comprehensive analysis of the mechanisms, preparation methods, chemical processes, mechanical performance, sustainability aspects, advantages, limitations, and current applications of living concrete. The study consolidates experimental evidence demonstrating improved compressive strength, flexural resistance, reduced permeability, and enhanced durability compared to conventional concrete. Although higher initial costs remain a barrier, long-term economic and environmental benefits suggest that living concrete represents a transformative technology for resilient infrastructure.