# ERDC Tests Bug-Crete in Mississippi

The U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) is testing Bug-Crete, a bacteria-based process intended to harden locally available sand for potential military construction in remote environments. The reported next evaluation steps include C-17 load testing and comparing fresh bacteria formulations with field-ready versions. ERDC identifies no solicitation, contract value, or procurement timeline, so this is a research and testing development rather than an active contracting opportunity.

- Materials suppliers, testing organizations, and deployment specialists may find future opportunities if the process advances from testing to field use; the signal does not identify a current procurement.
- The approach is intended to reduce dependence on transported construction materials and heavy equipment in remote settings, a potential consideration for military construction planning and logistics.
- ERDC’s testing will assess load performance and formulation readiness. Companies with relevant materials or testing capabilities can use these stated evaluation areas to assess potential fit for future collaboration.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military, Construction & Infrastructure
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** November 09, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC)
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)
- Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL)
- Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA)

### Vendors
- Biomason (MEDUSA program performer)

### Key Quotes
> The dream is that you could use this in the Pacific or somewhere where you have limited materials. I don’t need a lot of heavy construction equipment. I literally just need a sprayer and a mixing tank.
> — Dr. Jesse Doyle, Research Civil Engineer

### Sources
- [
	ERDC researchers develop “Bug-Crete” to harden sand for military construction > Engineer Research and Development Center > News Stories
](https://www.erdc.usace.army.mil/Media/News-Stories/Article/4645057/erdc-researchers-develop-bug-crete-to-harden-sand-for-military-construction/) - Usace