Computational Audit of MICP Kinetics: Thermal Constraints on 45Q Tax Credit Eligibility

This study evaluates the operational feasibility of Microbially Induced Calcite Precipitation (MICP) for sealing carbon capture and storage (CCS) sites in Zone 5 climates. By computationally replicating the pore-scale kinetic model established by Razbani et al. (2023)1, this audit identifies a critical thermal failure mode. While bio-cementation is effective at defaulted standard laboratory temperatures (25℃), a modified risk-adjusted sensitivity analysis reveals that metabolic activity drops below regulatory viability thresholds in cold substrates. Specifically, the analysis identifies a "Definite Failure Zone" below 10℃, where curing periods exceed the 28-day ASTM C39 industry standard2 required to verify 'secure storage' for Section 45Q eligibility. Consequently, and correspondingly, cold-weather MICP deployment without active heating presents a high risk of financial insolvency.