Translucent self-healing cementitious materials using glass fibers and superabsorbent polymers
Didier Snoeck, J. Debo, Nele De Belie
Abstract
Glass fibers possess the ability of transmitting light through the core of the fiber. However, most of the current manufacturing techniques are time- and cost-inefficient, limiting the implementation of translucent cementitious materials. The use of fibers increases the ductility of the cementitious matrix and limits the crack widths upon loading. This is advantageous in terms of autogenous healing. This healing can be further promoted by the use of superabsorbent polymers. The combination of translucency using glass fibers with promoted self-healing properties using superabsorbent polymers was therefore assessed using a direct-mixing technique. The mixture composition was optimized, the translucent property was available, multiple cracking was achieved, cracks were able to visually close and the mechanical properties were regained. This opens up opportunities for further application of translucent materials, showing self-healing properties.