Optimised Mix Designs for Self-Healing Concrete

The aim of the PhD is to develop a methodology for the design of optimised self-healing concrete mixes to be used in ready-mixed and prefab concrete applications in order to overcome the problems arising from the current practice where self-healing agents are added just ‘on top’ of the normal concrete mixes. Key parameters affecting mechanical properties, consistency and self-healing efficiency will be studied in a detailed way, in order to develop, and in a further step validate, dedicated strength and consistency models for the self-healing concrete. The methodology will facilitate valorization of self-healing concrete by mix optimization fulfilling the demands with regard to workability, self-healing efficiency and mechanical performance considering the objectives of the specific engineering application. Furthermore, the optimization of mix design composition should maintain mechanical concrete properties at relatively high dosages of self-healing agents and avoid the need for increased cement contents. This will be facilitated further by development of compatible concrete admixtures. Particle packing models will be upgraded for inclusion of self-healing agents.