Researchers Create Living Sand Using Microbial Fibers
A new study reveals that bacterial and fungal fibers can stabilize desert sand to improve water retention.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Life Sciences
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Scientists have developed a method to create living sand using cellulose-producing bacteria and fungal strains. This approach binds sand grains into stable structures while significantly increasing water-holding capacity.
Why it matters
The development provides a biodegradable alternative to synthetic materials for soil stabilization. This innovation could assist in environmental management in arid regions by improving the ability of desert soil to retain water.
The study used 6-centimeter-high sand column samples collected from Al Ain, observing a 28-fold reduction in water permeability with cellulose sheets. Fungal fibers grown directly in the sand further reduced water loss by six times.
The players
Khalifa University
This research institution is located in the United Arab Emirates and participated in the living sand study.
Empa
This Swiss research institute focuses on material science and technology and contributed to the development of the fiber-treated sand.
ETH Zurich
This public research university in Switzerland is a leading global institution in science and technology research.
The details
Researchers from Khalifa University, Empa, and ETH Zurich used Komagataeibacter medellinensis and Schizophyllum commune to weave mesh-like structures around sand grains. These biological reinforcements created samples robust enough to undergo structural testing with a 10-kilogram load.
Timeline
Seven days are required for bacterial treatment to bind the sand into stable, cuttable samples.
The Big Picture
This work follows the pattern set by the soil stabilization research conducted by Khalifa University. The study extends the institution's existing efforts to develop sustainable, nature-based infrastructure materials for desert environments.
This research could lead to the production of eco-friendly building materials or new methods for managing desert landscape irrigation. By creating stronger, water-efficient soil, these biological techniques may eventually support more sustainable agricultural or landscaping projects in arid climates.
The takeaway
Using microbial fibers creates a promising, biodegradable method to harden sand and retain moisture. These findings highlight a path toward replacing synthetic stabilizers with living, adaptable biological networks in infrastructure design.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in Life Sciences.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ScienceAlert.
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