This
study assessed advancements in self-healing cementitious systems, which
comprised natural autogenous mechanisms and engineered interventions.
Autogenous healing relies on ongoing hydration, calcium carbonate precipitation
and the swelling of hydration products to restore microcracks. Engineered
systems employ biological agents, polymers, fibres, shape memory materials and
expansive additives to enhance repair capacity. Bacteria-based strategies,
particularly those using Bacillus pasteurii, achieve recovery of
mechanical properties through mineral precipitation, with encapsulation methods
such as alginate beads and clay microcapsules extending microbial viability.
Fungal agents, such as Fusarium oxysporum and Trichoderma reesei, form mycelial
networks that promote calcium carbonate deposition across broader crack regions
under varying pH and oxygen conditions. Polymeric agents, such as epoxy,
polyurethane and PMMA, rely on controlled chemical reactions activated by crack
formation, while fibres and expansive additives restrict crack propagation and
facilitate mineral-based sealing. Ultra-high-performance fiber-reinforced
concrete demonstrates enhanced self-healing through controlled environmental
exposure, frost-melt saturation and microcrack management. The study assessed
the efficiency of these mechanisms in restoring structural integrity, reducing
permeability and limiting reinforcement corrosion. Current limitations comprise
of environmental sensitivity, temperature dependence, nutrient delivery challenges
and reduced performance in marine or chemically aggressive conditions. The
study recommended the development of multi-agent systems capable of sustained
activity under diverse conditions, integration of encapsulation technologies
and improved compatibility with field-scale applications. These strategies aim
to extend service life, reduce maintenance requirements and support the
long-term durability of reinforced concrete structures.
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