Light induced self-healing in concrete using novel cementitious capsules containing UV curable adhesive

摘要

Cracking related deterioration is one of the most important sources of risk that seriously influences the integrity and durability of concrete structures. In this study, a novel type of light induced self-healing mechanism was designed and prepared for automatic healing of cracks in concrete. The self-healing mechanism consists of waterproofing cementitious capsules filled with UV adhesive and a UV light radiator. The shell of capsule is made of three separated but organically bonded functional layers. UV adhesive was first time employed as healing agent for concrete self-healing. The survival of the prepared capsules in the cementitious materials and the ability of capsules to break upon crack were testified. The self-healing efficiency in concrete was evaluated in terms of mechanical recovery, water absorption and water permeability. The test results implied that the proposed self-healing mechanism can be used as an ideal option in revitalizing the performance of cracked concrete.