Towards durable concrete that repairs cracks autonomously

Title: Towards durable concrete that repairs cracks autonomously
Author(s): K. Van Tittelboom, N. De Belie, F. Lehmann, C. Grosse
Paper category : conference
Book title: International RILEM Conference on Use of Superabsorbent Polymers and Other New Additives in Concrete
Editor(s): O.M. Jensen, M.T. Hasholt and S. Laustsen
Print-ISBN: 978-2-35158-104-9
e-ISBN: 978-2-35158-105-6
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2010
Pages: 285 - 292
Total Pages: 8
Nb references: 8
Language: English

Abstract: Concrete is frequently used as construction material because of its excellent mechanical properties, low cost and freedom of design. However, one weakness of concrete is its susceptibility to cracking. Aggressive liquids and gasses may enter these cracks and cause concrete deterioration, so the durability of the structure is impaired. Therefore, it is important that cracks are repaired as soon as possible after they arise. In this research, it was attempted to use crack formation as a trigger to cause immediate crack repair. Concrete beams, provided with encapsulated healing agent, were tested on their autonomous crack healing efficiency. A comparison was made with manually healed cracks. It was seen that in the case of manual crack healing up to 60% of strength recovery was obtained while for the specimens with selfhealing properties a maximum of 97% of regain in strength was noticed. This means that it is possible to induce crack repair by crack appearance. Use of this technique may lead to concrete structures with a longer life span.

Online publication: 2010-10-04
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros): 0.00