Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered a way to create natural cement on beaches to prevent erosion by blasting sand with electricity. More specifically, they applied a weak electric current that instantly changed the structure of the sea sand, turning it into a rock-like, immobile solid.
Building protective structures such as sea walls or injecting cement into the ground to reinforce seabeds is extremely expensive and not permanent. Seawater already contains a variety of ions and dissolved minerals, so applying a weak electrical current (2 to 3 volts) triggers chemical reactions that convert some of these constituents into solid calcium carbonate. The ultimate goal is to use this natural cement strategy for a permanent, cost-effective and sustainable solution to reinforce coastlines worldwide.
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My goal was to develop an approach that could change the status quo in coastal protection – an approach that does not require the construction of protective structures and can cement seabeds without real cement. By subjecting seabeds to mild electrical stimulation, we have systematically and mechanistically proven that it is possible to cement them by converting naturally dissolved minerals in seawater into solid mineral binders – a natural cement,” said Alessandro Rotta Loria of Northwestern University, who led the study.
