Abstract: Various examples are provided for in situ growth of subsurface structures using bioinspired mineralization. In one example, among others, a method for growth of a subsurface structure includes introducing a first aqueous mineral salt reactant and a second aqueous mineral salt reactant comprising a polymeric additive into a soil substrate. The first and second aqueous mineral salt reactants can combine to form a polymer-induced liquid-precursor (PILP) phase that initiates in situ mineralization in the soil substrate. Solidifying the mineralization can form a subsurface structure in the soil substrate. Multiple applications of aqueous mineral salt reactants can be introduced to adjust the thickness of the mineralization or for layers of coatings.

Abstract: Various examples are provided for in situ growth of subsurface structures using bioinspired mineralization. In one example, among others, a method for growth of a subsurface structure includes introducing a first aqueous mineral salt reactant and a second aqueous mineral salt reactant comprising a polymeric additive into a soil substrate. The first and second aqueous mineral salt reactants can combine to form a polymer-induced liquid-precursor (PILP) phase that initiates in situ mineralization in the soil substrate. Solidifying the mineralization can form a subsurface structure in the soil substrate. Multiple applications of aqueous mineral salt reactants can be introduced to adjust the thickness of the mineralization or for layers of coatings.