Microbial minerals- can microorganisms help prevent weathering?

Microbial interaction with solid surfaces often results in enhanced surface degradation, impacting upon the stability of both natural and man-made surfaces. The precipitation of minerals by certain microorganisms is an emerging biotechnological resource, a process which has the potential to protect and even repair damage-prone surfaces such as monuments, roads and public buildings. Cave environments are characterized by extensive microbially mediated degradation and mineral precipitation; however, the communities and processes driving these changes are largely unexplored. This project aims to isolate mineralizing microbes from caves and determine their potential for the protection and repair of vulnerable surfaces.