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Microbial geo-technology in ground improvement techniques: a comprehensive review

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Abstract

Microbial geo-technology is an innovative eco-friendly technique that uses microbes to improve and strengthen weak or marginal soils. Bio-mediated ground improvement techniques have gained a lot of attention amongst researchers since the past decade. In this review article, an attempt has been made to investigate the different factors that affect the process of biological improvement overall including the type of microbes, quantity of microbes used, cementation solution molarity, pH of the system, treatment method, temperature, degree of saturation, density of soil, nutrient availability, etc. Enhancement in different properties of the treated soil as reported by other researchers was explored and investigated, and proper conclusions were drafted keeping all the factors into consideration. Identification of potential applications and challenges which could be faced in the in situ application of the technique was worked upon, and suggestions were provided. Finally, the limitations and future scope of microbial geo-technology were highlighted.

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The authors would like to present their gratitude to the anonymous reviewers for carefully reviewing the manuscript and providing valuable suggestions.

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    K. M. N. Saquib Wani & B. A. Mir

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No direct funding was received for this research. The first author receives a doctoral fellowship from Govt. of India, Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD).

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Wani, K.M.N.S., Mir, B.A. Microbial geo-technology in ground improvement techniques: a comprehensive review. Innov. Infrastruct. Solut. 5, 82 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s41062-020-00335-6

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