Project

Monitoring the reduction in shrinkage cracking and improvement in self-sealing and self-healing of concrete through the inclusion of superabsorbent polymers and nano-reinforcement

Code
3G0A2816
Duration
01 January 2016 → 31 December 2019
Funding
Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO)
Research disciplines
  • Engineering and technology
    • Building engineering
Keywords
nanoclay Concrete superabsorbent polymer
 
Project description

Within this project we will aim to develop superior superabsorbent polymers to incorporate in a well-designed concrete mixture with optimized internal curing and self-sealing and -healing. The fundamental relation between autogenous shrinkage and the effect of SAPs on the microstructure of a concrete mixture (with blended cements) will be clarified. The mix design will be further optimized by introduction of nanoclays to eliminate the possible reduction in strength by SAPs, recognizing the importance of obtaining a uniform dispersion of the nano-material in the matrix. A non-destructive measurement setup will be designed to monitor autogenous shrinkage, crack formation and self-healing.