Cracking is a primary mechanism of deterioration in concrete infrastructure. Microcracks form during curing, thermal expansion and contraction, mechanical loading, and environmental stress. Over time these cracks permit water infiltration, accelerate reinforcement corrosion, and reduce structural integrity. This disclosure describes a self-healing concrete architecture designed to autonomously mitigate cracking through moisture-activated internal repair mechanisms. The system incorporates reactive materials embedded within the concrete matrix that respond to water infiltration by initiating localized crack-sealing processes. When cracks expose the reactive components to moisture, the embedded materials generate mineral growth or polymeric sealing compounds that partially or fully close the crack pathway. This autonomous response can reduce water penetration, slow crack propagation, and extend the service life of concrete infrastructure. Potential applications include bridges, pavements, marine structures, foundations, and other concrete systems subject to cracking and environmental exposure.
Matthew Dominik (Fri,) studied this question.