Research project No. 22-02702S, titled “Microbiologically induced calcite precipitation during concrete recycling for the production of materials with a negative carbon footprint” and supported by the Czech Science Foundation (GACR), carried out in collaboration between scientists from the Faculty of Civil Engineering at CTU in Prague and the University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague (UCT Prague), has demonstrated that the finest fraction of recycled concrete can be strengthened and transformed into a new value-added material through bacterially controlled processes. The project opened a completely new area of research linking the recycling of construction materials, biotechnology, and carbon sequestration, while yielding original findings with strong potential for future application in circular construction.
The results were published in prestigious international journals such as Cement and Concrete Composites, Journal of Cleaner Production, and Powder Technology, contributing to the development of international cooperation and follow-up research. The project, led by principal investigator Assoc. Prof. Václav Nežerka from the Department of Physics at the CTU Faculty of Civil Engineering, was awarded the highest rating of “Excellent” by the Czech Science Foundation in its final evaluation. This confirms its high scientific standard, originality, and significance for the advancement of environmentally friendly construction technologies.
