Investigation into the Effects of Crystalline Admixtures and Coatings on the Properties of Self-Healing Concrete

Abstract

One fascinating concept for enhancing the durability and lifespan of concrete buildings involves the use of self-healing concrete. This study focuses on the effect of crystalline admixtures and coatings on various properties of self-healing concrete and provides a comparison with traditional concrete. Four different concrete mixtures were prepared to assess their effectiveness in bridging crack openings, their flexural and compressive strengths, and water absorption. Various testing methods, including destructive, semi-destructive, and non-destructive tests, were used in this research. The capacity of the mixes to repair themselves was assessed on the destroyed and semi-destroyed test specimens using crack-healing and microstructure testing. Additionally, all mixtures were also subjected to the slump cone test and air content test in order to investigate the characteristics of the concrete in its fresh state. The findings demonstrate that crystalline coating and admixture combinations have significant potential for healing concrete. The compressive and bending strengths of self-healing concrete mixtures were shown to be slightly higher compared to traditional concrete when the additive dose was increased. Self-healing concrete mixtures also exhibited much lower water absorption, a tightly packed and improved microstructure, and signs of healed gaps, all of which indicate greater durability.