Biosketch
I am a PhD graduate in biotechnology, specializing in areas such as microbiological techniques, microbial genomics, and enzyme characterization. My doctoral research focused on microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation for sustainable coastal sand stabilization, integrating microbiology, molecular biology, and environmental engineering.
During my academic career, I have established a solid background in experimental design, data analysis, molecular biology, and bioinformatics. I have experience working with various analytical tools such as microbial culturing, genomic analysis, enzyme assays, molecular techniques, and computational biology software. I have proven the ability to manage interdisciplinary research projects, published peer reviewed articles, and collaborated across academic and industry platforms. I am skilled in handling biotechnology projects and data analysis methods with over two years of experience working autonomously and in team in a university setting.
My research collaborations have instilled in me good communication skills and the importance of teamwork, flexibility, and perseverance in scientific investigations. I have published 7 research articles and 3 book chapters, made presentations at international meetings, and worked across interdisciplinary groups.My research contributes to the advancement of environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional chemical soil stabilization methods, with an emphasis on sustainability, durability, and field applicability. I am particularly interested in bridging microbiology, geotechnical engineering, and molecular biology to develop innovative bio-based ground improvement strategies.As a researcher, I am passionate about applying biotechnology to solve environmental challenges throughinnovative and eco-friendly solutions.
Date of Award
17-8-2025
Document Type
Thesis
School
School of Chemical & Biotechnology
Programme
Ph.D.-Doctoral of Philosophy
First Advisor
Dr. Kiran Babu Uppuluri
Keywords
Microbially Induced Calcite Precipitation, Ureolytic Bacteria, Fiber Reinforcement, Sand Stabilization, Nanopore Sequencing Technology
Abstract
Coastal erosion, driven by natural forces such as waves, tides, winds, and currents and further intensified by anthropogenic activities like urbanization, climate change, and coastal infrastructure development, poses a significant threat to shoreline stability. Conventional erosion control methods, including jetties, embankments, and artificial reefs, often face limitations in sustainability and effectiveness. In this context, microbially induced calcite precipitation (MICP) has emerged as a promising ecofriendly solution for ground stabilization.
The present study investigates the potential of an indigenous ureolytic marine bacterium, Bacillus sp. N₉, isolated from the coastal sediments of Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu, for coastal sand stabilization. The strain was identified via 16S rRNA sequencing and further characterized through whole genome analysis, which confirmed the presence of key urease genes. Urease was extracted and partially purified, enabling calcite precipitation in media containing urea and calcium chloride. The formation of calcite was confirmed using SEM, XRD, and FTIR analyses.
Mechanical strength tests indicated enhanced sand cohesion resulting from calcite deposition, while sand cube experiments validated the bacterium’s ability to solidify sand matrices. To enhance bacterial retention and minimize washout, a twostep injection method incorporating biomass fibers from Sterculia foetida and Cynodon dactylon was developed. The fiber-blended sand was first inoculated with bacterial culture, followed by the addition of a cementation solution. The fibers served as nucleation sites, significantly improving calcite precipitation and sand stabilization.
Performance was evaluated using permeability and unconfined compressive strength (UCS) tests, with SEM, XRD, and XRF confirming uniform and increased calcite distribution in treated samples. Overall, the study demonstrates that Bacillus sp. N₉, in combination with natural fibers, offers a sustainable and effective biotechnological strategy for mitigating coastal sand erosion through enhanced biocementation.
Recommended Citation
GS, Aparna Ms, "Biogenic Calcite Precipitation for Coastal Sand Stabilization: A Synergistic Approach Using Marine Bacteria and Natural Fibers" (2025). Theses and Dissertations. 181.
https://knowledgeconnect.sastra.edu/theses/181