Self-Waterproofing Performance of Repair Mortars With Inorganic Healing Agents

In Europe, about 55% of concrete bridges are 50 years old and require non-structural rapid repair strategies to reinstate the aesthetic durability performances. Existing focus primarily on superficial restoration that continues demonstrate premature deterioration due inevitable micro-crack formations further propagate macro-cracks leading ingress moisture along with harmful ions. this study, benefits self-healing technology control at microscale were investigated. For this, tailored microcapsule inorganic healing agent, specifically, commercially available water-repellent agent (SIKAGARD 705L) was added mortar two types commonly used binders namely CEMI 52.5N 52.5R. The compatibility assessment in terms capsule integration, fresh hardened properties done. baseline efficiency mortars without any additions obtained understand autogenous capacity reference mortars. Subsequently, mixes compared containing varying fractions microcapsules (3, 5, 10%) for autonomous capillary absorption as main function. investigated different crack mouth widths (<250 μm >350 μm); representative residual widths. microcapsules, a maximum reduction sorptivity coefficients up 82% 78% 52.5R mortars, respectively, specimens cracked after 7 days curing observed. synergetic effect action recovery identified proved useful applications. investigated, content, environment considered current study lay foundation optimisation improve performance suit