Researchers Design a New Ultra-Durable Concrete That Can Self-Heal Cracks, Increasing Longevity in Harsh Environments.
A project using the new concrete from ICITECH. (Photo: Polytechnic University of Valencia)
The new concrete designed by a research team at the Institute of Science and Technology of Concrete (ICITECH) of the Polytechnic University of Valencia boasts a strength that is 30% higher than the highest quality concrete currently available, resulting in fewer cracks. According to researcher Pedro Serna at ICITECH, these properties are the result of a design that incorporates crystalline additives, aluminum oxide nanofibers, and cellulose nanocrystals, which enhance self-healing capabilities.
Another feature that makes this new material superior to competing products is its reduced maintenance requirements, with a lifespan of approximately 50 years. This is particularly beneficial for infrastructure subjected to harsh environmental conditions, such as projects near the sea or geothermal power plants.
“We designed and tested a new compound used in concrete with self-healing capabilities at the cracking stage, which is common in reinforced concrete structures. The research represents a shift in design philosophy, from the concept of passive protective materials against natural disasters to actively protective materials,” shared Marta Roig Flores, a researcher at ICITECH.
The research team tested the material by applying it in the construction of six large-scale projects, two in the Valencia community, two in Italy, one in Malta, and one in Ireland. They continuously monitored these projects using ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) technology (a method of measuring the speed of sound traveling through materials to assess strength), based on the institute’s sensor network. This allows engineers to determine the performance of the new concrete over weeks and years. Since this is a testing system, the projects contain independent sensors that provide real-time information on durability.
