Advancements and Applications of Self-Healing Concrete for Sustainable Infrastructure

Self-healing concrete is an innovative material capable of autonomously repairing cracks, thereby enhancing durability, reducing maintenance, and supporting sustainable construction. This paper reviews three primary self-healing mechanisms: autogenous hydration, biogenic healing, and chemical encapsulation, and examines their applications in transportation, marine, seismic, and underground infrastructure. The study highlights the material’s potential to lower carbon emissions, conserve resources, and align with circular economy principles by incorporating industrial by-products. However, challenges such as high initial costs, technical limitations in healing efficiency, and the absence of standardized regulations hinder widespread adoption. Addressing these barriers through further research and development is crucial for realizing the transformative potential of self-healing concrete in building resilient and sustainable infrastructure.