Abstract
Bio-Rock Mechanics is presented here as an emerging interdisciplinary framework for investigating how biological processes influence the mechanical behavior and long-term evolution of rocks and rock masses. By integrating microbiology, geochemistry, rock mechanics, and rock engineering, this framework provides a basis for understanding biologically mediated rock deterioration and restoration. Although microbial weathering and biomineralization have been extensively studied in geology and geomicrobiology, their impacts on rock mechanics and rock engineering remain insufficiently explored. This review summarizes the current understanding and future perspectives of Bio-Rock Mechanics, focusing on four closely related topics: microbial processes in natural rocks, microbial weathering, biomineralization, and mathematical and numerical modeling. Microbial weathering is reviewed as a process that modifies mineral surfaces, pore structures, microcracks, and mechanical properties, leading to progressive deterioration of rocks. In contrast, biomineralization is discussed as a constructive process that promotes mineral precipitation, crack sealing, surface protection, and potential restoration of rock materials. Numerical modeling approaches are also reviewed as tools for linking microbial activity, geochemical reactions, transport processes, and mechanical responses across different spatial and temporal scales.
https://ror.org/02z1n9q24 
