Calcium hydroxide influence in autogenous self-healing of cement-based materials in various environmental conditions

Abstract Several factors, such as chemical shrinkage or environmental attack can produce concrete cracks. Calcium hydroxide content from the environment cement hydration promote self-healing phenomenon (SHP). This study evaluates calcium concentration influence on of cement-based materials. Cracked mortars with different types cement, a filler, pozzolanic, and high initial strength, were exposed to four conditions. Titration was method proposed determine amount leached in water, cracks closure analyzed by optical microscopy. CPII F (Portland Cement, type II, compound limestone) samples showed no trend Ca(OH)2 leached, superficial cracking closure. Regarding CPV V, strength cement) samples, their behavior highest all exposure, submerged condition. Thus, significant cracks´ regarding presence Ca2+ exposure environments, water source related this seems be primary factor improve SHP.