Self-Healing Concrete explores a groundbreaking technology that allows concrete to autonomously repair cracks, offering a promising solution for sustainable infrastructure. Imagine bridges and buildings mending themselves, significantly reducing maintenance and extending their lifespan. This innovative approach incorporates self-healing agents like bacteria or polymers, which are activated by water when cracks form, effectively sealing the damage. The book details how integrating these mechanisms could revolutionize construction, moving towards more resilient and eco-friendly structures.
The book begins by establishing a foundation in concrete history and the mechanics of crack formation. It then progresses to examine various self-healing agents and methods for their incorporation, such as direct addition or encapsulation. Highlighting the practical implications, case studies of pilot projects demonstrate the technology's performance in real-world conditions.
The book emphasizes the potential economic and environmental benefits, including reduced carbon emissions and extended structural integrity, making it an invaluable resource for those seeking to understand and implement this cutting-edge construction material.