Concrete is prone to cracking, shrinkage, and drying, but a genus of bacteria has shown it can help beat its own weaknesses.

Scientists have discovered a bacterium capable of binding sand and creating a sustainable bio-cement for construction.

“It is exciting to make progress in this area, but there are still many challenges to overcome,” says Takafumi Noguchi, an author of the study. “As well as increasing the strength and size limits of ...