Evaluation of the self-healing capacity of concrete with low-cost macro-capsules

This study focuses on the evaluation of efficiency a low-cost macrocapsule, using commercially available pharmaceutical capsules with specific modifications, for self-healing concrete. The macrocapsules were developed by Belgian Building Research Institute in previous study. healing agent is resin based alkyd-urethane, commercial product, which was selected its compatibility concrete and shell, also following reasons: release, adhesion to concrete, reduction capillary water absorption. After their manufacturing, carefully integrated within mix at 5 volume-%, cubes slabs compressive impact tests cast. Small beams 160 x 40 mm 3 containing each three (placed 15 above bottom surface) tested flexural strength effect evaluated sorptivity test two different crack mouth opening displacements 0.5 0.9 mm. In both cases, cracks partially or completely healed, mechanical properties macrocapsule specimens quite same as reference specimens. demonstrates that modified are sufficient heal large without losing properties.