Application of self-healing materials in architecture and construction industry: an exploratory review

Abstract

This work's aim was to perform a review of the scientific literature from the standpoint of both the architect and builder. In the first place, on which self-healing materials are currently available for construction industry; secondly, to acknowledge the main applications and the self-healing methods of each material. The review was largely carried out using the scientific database tool sciencedirect ® and other similar tools on the main applications of self-healing materials in construction industry. The results reveal that the main applications refer to the production of self-healing concretes and mortars by means of self-healing techniques, for example: insertion of microcapsules with various self-healing agents, followed by self-healing bacteria. It is concluded that with the use of these materials not only does the service life of structures of buildings improves, but also that of the entire building, increasing durability and noticeably decreasing maintenance and reparation costs.