Microbially Induced Calcite Precipitation (MICP) has emerged as a promising technique for bio-cementation, soil improvement, and heavy metal remediation. This study explores the potential of
Bhargavaea beijingensis
, a urease-producing bacterium, for these applications. Six ureolytic bacteria were isolated from calcareous bricks mine soil and screened for urease and calcite production.
B. beijingensis
exhibited the highest urease activity and calcite precipitation. Urease activity, calcite precipitation, sand solidification, heavy metal removal efficiency, and compressive strength were evaluated. It showed significant heavy metal removal efficiency, particularly highest for HgCl
2
. Mortar blocks treated with
B. beijingensis
or its crude enzyme exhibited improved compressive strength, suggesting its potential for bio-cementation. Crack remediation tests demonstrated successful crack healing in mortar blocks using the bacterium or its enzyme. This study identifies
B. beijingensis
as a novel and promising MICP agent with potential applications in bio-cementation, soil improvement, and heavy metal remediation. Hence,
B. beijingensis
diversified abilities prove superior performance compared to commonly used strains like
Bacillus subtilis
and
Shewanella putrefaciens
in bio-cementation applications. Its high urease activity, calcite precipitation, and heavy metal removal abilities make it a valuable candidate for sustainable and eco-friendly solutions in various fields.
Supplementary Information
The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1038/s41598-024-75019-7.