ABSTRACT
In recent years, smart concretes were introduced as new environmentally friendly construction materials with low dioxide carbon emissions. Due to various reasons, the formation of micro-cracks can lead to major problems such as corrosion of steel reinforcement and further deterioration of the concrete structure. The cost of repairing deteriorated concrete structures is expensive, as effective remedial requires special repair materials and skilled laborers. Thus, the development of new technologies and material that can automatically repair cracks—consequently restoring or even increasing the strength of both mortar and concrete to prolong the service life—are required. Currently, self-healing technology–based smart concretes are widely studied. Many types of materials are used as healing agents, such as bacteria, epoxy resin, and nanomaterials. In this chapter, the fundamental and design strategies of self-healing are reviewed.
