Full scale application of bacteria-based self-healing concrete for repair purposes

Author(s): Henk M. Jonkers, Renée Mors
Paper category: Conference
Book title: Concrete Repair, Rehabilitation and Retrofitting III (ICCRRR)
Editor(s): M.G. Alexander, H.-D. Beushausen, F. Dehn, P. Moyo
Print ISBN: 978-0-415-89952-9
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Group
Pages: 349- 350
Total Pages: 2
Language: English

Abstract: 
In the last four years we have developed in our laboratory an experimental mortar mixture with self healing capabilities. This mixture is based on a two component additive, composed of bacteria and organic feed, latter acting as mineral precursor compound for the production of crack-filling material. Experimental results obtained so far show that occurring cracks, which dramatically increase matrix porosity and cause leakage problems, are significantly better healed in bacteria-based than in reference (control) specimens. The goal of the current follow-up research project is to further develop bacteria based self-healing concrete into a series of products which can be successfully applied outdoors. One specific product comprises a cement-based liner to be applied on concrete constructions to prevent leakage and at the same time repair existing cracks in the underlying concrete in a durable manner. Specific challenges in this project concern the compatibility of the fresh mortar-based repair system with the underlying old concrete. Technical voluminous and economical production of the two component healing agent needed for full scale application is a further challenge. First results show that powder compression techniques allow economical production of high volumes of healing agent and, furthermore, that healing agent-amended mortar mixtures show crack sealing behavior. The reduction in matrix porosity due to bacterial formation of calcium carbonate based minerals will be further quantified using chloride ingression techniques. At the end of this 4-years research project the functionality of this novel repair system will be evaluated, and a cost-benefit and life cycle analysis should clarify the potential applicability of this product for market implementation.

Online publication: 2014
Publication Type: abstract_only
Public price (Euros): 0.00