Autonomous Self-Healing Methods as a Potential Technique for the Improvement of Concrete’s Durability

Abstract

The causes of cracks in concrete are varied, and regardless of their origin, these cracks invariably have a detrimental impact on the durability of concrete structures and escalate their maintenance costs. This paper presents a comprehensive review of current knowledge regarding the methods of self-healing in concrete, ranging from autogenic and improved autogenic self-healing to the autonomous self-healing of concrete. Particular emphasis is placed on the methods of autonomous concrete self-healing: the bacterial healing method, the crystalline hydrophilic additives healing method, and the capsule-based self-healing method. The hypothesis is that applying these self-healing methods could potentially prevent damages or cracks in concrete caused by freeze–thaw cycles, thereby extending the lifespan of concrete structures. The mechanism of action and current achievements in the field are provided for each method.