Concrete with a human touch: Can we make infrastructure that repairs itself?
AI Article Summary
Researchers are exploring self-healing concrete as a solution to recurring infrastructure issues caused by cracks, which result from large temperature swings. The concept of self-healing concrete involves materials like minerals, polymers, and bacteria that activate and repair cracks autonomously. Advances in encapsulation and chemical-based solutions aim to enhance this technology, though more research is needed to find the best approach. Implementing self-healing concrete could help prevent deterioration and reduce repair costs for infrastructure worldwide.
What This Means for Canadian Contractors
For Canadian builders, the development of self-healing concrete signifies a potential reduction in future maintenance costs and increased infrastructure lifespan, impacting budget allocations. This innovation could alter the requirements for material suppliers and influence training programs for construction workers. Additionally, integrating such materials into projects may require new procedures for permits and quality testing, potentially influencing project timelines.
