Multi-performance experimental assessment of autogenous and crystalline admixture-stimulated self-healing in UHPFRCCs: Validation and reliability analysis through an inter-laboratory study

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • Francesco Lo Monte - , Polytechnic University of Milan (First author)
  • Lamija Repesa - , Polytechnic University of Milan (Author)
  • Didier Snoeck - , Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Ghent University (Author)
  • Doostkami Hesam - , Polytechnic University of Valencia (Author)
  • Marta Roig-Flores - , Polytechnic University of Valencia, Jaume I University (Author)
  • Sam J. P. Jackson - , Loughborough University (Author)
  • Ana Blanco Alvarez - , Loughborough University (Author)
  • Milena Nasner - , University of Malta (Author)
  • Ruben Paul Borg - , University of Malta (Author)
  • Christof Schröfl - , Chair of Construction Materials (Author)
  • Mercedes Gimenez - , Institute of Construction Science Eduardo Torroja (CSIC) (Author)
  • Maria Cruz Alonso y Alonso - , Institute of Construction Science Eduardo Torroja (CSIC) (Author)
  • Pedro Serna - , Polytechnic University of Valencia (Author)
  • Nele De Belie - , Ghent University (Author)
  • Liberato Ferrara - , Polytechnic University of Milan (Author)

Abstract

The huge benefits brought by the use of Ultra High-Performance Fibre-Reinforced Cementitious Composites (UHPFRCCs) include their high “intrinsic” durability, which is guaranteed by (1) the compact microstructure and (2) the positive interaction between stable multiple-cracking response and autogenous self-healing capability. Hence, self-healing capability must be properly characterized addressing different performances, thus providing all the tools for completely exploiting such large potential. Within this context, the need is clear for a well-established protocol for self-healing characterization. To this end, in the framework of the Cost Action CA15202 SARCOS, six Round Robin Tests involving 30 partners all around Europe were launched addressing different materials, spanning from ordinary concrete to UHPFRCC, and employing different self-healing technologies. In this paper, the tailored experimental methodology is presented and discussed for the specific case of autogenous and crystalline-admixture stimulated healing of UHPFRCC, starting from the comparison of the results from seven different laboratories. The methodology is based on chloride penetration and water permeability tests in cracked disks together with flexural tests on small beams. The latter ones are specifically aimed at assessing the flexural performance recovery of UHPFRCCs, which stands as their signature design “parameter” according to the most recent internationally recognized design approaches. This multi-fold test approach allows to address both inherent durability properties, such as through-crack chloride penetration and apparent water permeability, and more structural/mechanical aspects, such as flexural strength and stiffness.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Article number105315
Number of pages22
JournalCement and Concrete Composites
Volume145
Publication statusPublished - 5 Oct 2023
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

Scopus 85173248859
ORCID /0000-0001-7703-6691/work/149081460
Mendeley 9b324dda-cac1-39f8-a77a-d9cc752508a6