Strength and Durability Evaluation of Bacteria-Based Self-Healing Concrete
摘要
Concrete is susceptible to cracking under tension, which can lead to structural deterioration due to the penetration of acidic solutions and chemicals. Self-healing concrete presents an innovative solution by autonomously repairing surface cracks, reducing the need for costly and time-consuming maintenance. This study investigates the potential of Bacillus cereus in enhancing the self-healing and durability properties of C25-grade concrete. B. Cereus bacteria (108 cells/ml) were utilized, and mechanical tests were conducted on both bacterial and control concrete specimens. Six pre-cracked samples from each group were monitored using a 3D optical microscope, and over 60 specimens were tested after 56 days of curing. Results showed that after 28 days, bacterial concrete exhibited increased compressive strength (16.67%), and flexural strength (8.59%) compared to control concrete. After 56 days, acid and salt resistance improved by 5.51% and 7.28%, respectively. Bacterial concrete also demonstrated 28.99% lower water absorption. The addition of bacteria resulted in a regain of compressive strength (17.88%, 5.29%, and 3.63% at 50%, 80%, and 100% loading, respectively) after 28 days. Analysis with a 3D microscope revealed increased white crystal precipitates, indicating effective crack filling facilitated by B. Cereus bacteria and calcite precipitation. These findings demonstrate that B. Cereus-based self-healing concrete enhances mechanical strength and durability, offering a sustainable and cost-effective alternative for resilient infrastructure. This novel technology holds significant potential for extending the lifespan of concrete structures and reducing maintenance demands.