Research: Comparative Evaluation of Bacterial and Microcapsule-Based Self-Healing Mecha...

Research question: How do bacterial and microcapsule-based self-healing mechanisms differ in effectiveness and durability for repairing cracks in concrete under realistic service conditions?

Background & Motivation: Cracking in concrete structures is a persistent challenge that compromises structural integrity, durability, and sustainability. Recent advancements in self-healing technologies, including microbial-induced calcite precipitation and microcapsule-based healing agents, offer promising avenues to autonomously repair cracks and extend service life.

Research Gap: While both bacterial and microcapsule self-healing strategies show potential, there is limited comparative research on their performance under controlled and realistic environmental conditions. The interaction between crack geometry, healing agent distribution, and environmental factors remains poorly understood.

Approach & Expected Contribution: This study will systematically investigate and compare the crack repair effectiveness, healing kinetics, and durability of bacterial (Bacillus subtilis) and microcapsule-based self-healing concrete using laboratory-scale experiments, microscopy, and mechanical testing. Statistical analysis will be used to assess performance differences and identify governing parameters.

Why it Matters: Improving self-healing concrete technologies can substantially reduce maintenance costs, enhance infrastructure resilience, and contribute to sustainability goals by minimizing resource consumption. This research will inform material selection and design strategies for next-generation smart concrete systems.