A new system for crack closure of cementitious materials using shrinkable polymers

作者：Jefferson Anthony^*; Joseph Christopher; Lark Robert; Isaacs Ben; Dunn Simon; Weager Brendon

来源：Cement and Concrete Research, 2010, 40(5): 795-801.

DOI：10.1016/j.cemconres.2010.01.004

• Long-term performance
• Durability
• Shape Memory Polymer
• Crack-healing

This paper presents details of an original crack-closure system for cementitious materials using shrinkable polymer tendons. The system involves the incorporation of unbonded pre-oriented polymer tendons in cementitious beams. Crack closure is achieved by thermally activating the shrinkage mechanism of the restrained polymer tendons after the cement-based material has undergone initial curing.
The feasibility of the system is demonstrated in a series of small scale experiments on pre-cracked prismatic mortar specimens. The results from these tests show that, upon activation, the polymer tendon completely closes the preformed macro-cracks and imparts a significant stress across the crack faces.
The potential of the system to enhance the natural autogenous crack healing process and generally improve the durability of concrete structures is addressed.

• 出版日期2010-5