Engineers and conservationists in Spain have begun a pilot project using revolutionary bio-calcification technology to repair structural fissures in the 2,000-year-old Aqueduct of Segovia. The process involves injecting specialized bacteria and nutrient solutions into cracks; the bacteria then produce calcium carbonate, naturally bonding the ancient stones without the need for synthetic resins or cement.
This biomimetic approach ensures that the repairs are chemically identical to the original Roman mortar and stone. If successful, the project could provide a blueprint for non-invasive preservation of masonry heritage sites globally, particularly those threatened by seismic activity and freeze-thaw cycles.