Self-healing Concrete Technology Utilizing Bacteria
By K. Ryu
Concrete Journal, Vol.59, No.11, Nov. 2021
- Synopsis
- This paper introduces a self-healing technology for cracks in concrete that was developed for the purpose of ensuring durability and extending the service life of concrete structures through the metabolic activities of bacteria. This technology mixes in a self-healing material composed of a special strain of the Bacillus genus and polylactic acid, which is a source of food for these bacteria, during the production of concrete. When cracks occur in the concrete after hardening, the bacteria decompose the polylactic acid, causing the precipitation of calcium carbonate, which can close cracks up to 1 mm wide. The sustainability effect of this technology was evaluated from three aspects: social, economic, and environmental. As a result, it was found that products based on this technology can greatly contribute to the creation of a sustainable society as construction materials for infrastructure and buildings.
- Keywords:
- Crack, Bacteria, Calcium carbonate, Self-healing, Service life extension, Sustainability
