Biomaterial/self healing concrete

Biomaterials - Self

healing concrete

Submitted by Ar.Waheeda Tarannum

Biomaterials

Biomaterials, derived from renewable resources, have emerged as a promising solution to revolutionize the construction sector, reducing its impact on the environment while providing innovative and cost-effective alternatives to conventional materials.

As an innovative approach, biomaterials offer a new perspective on construction materials, harnessing the potential of organic substances, agricultural by-products, and waste materials

The diverse range of biomaterials encompasses:

• Self healing concrete

• Bioplastics

• Biocomposites

• Biocement

• Mycelium-based materials

• Cellulose-based materials

Importance of Biomaterials in Architecture

Benefits

Self-healing Concrete

Cement is the second most consumed product on Earth after water. Concrete production is one of the largest producers of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas. These gases absorb solar energy and keep heat close to the Earth, known as the greenhouse effect, leading to global warming. In addition, repairing cracked concrete in roads and buildings costs governments and companies billions of dollars every year.

Biomimicry Inspiration

Bones maintain skeletal homeostasis by balancing the activities of osteoblasts and osteoclasts.

One stark difference between the things humans make and the things the rest of nature makes is that when something we make breaks, it doesn’t fix itself. Break a bone, though, and it begins to heal almost immediately. This instant repair is the work of a diverse team of cell types, who appear like royal artisans called to reshape and rebuild overnight.

Self-repairing concrete contains bacteria that produce limestone to fill any cracks that occur.

Benefits

Reduced emissions

Reduced cost

Applications

Construction

Building materials

Bioutilization

Sporosarcina pasteurii

Bacillus pseudofirmus

Self-repairing concrete utilizes a limestone-producing bacteria, which is normally dormant inside the concrete. When a crack emerges, it lets in air and moisture. This forces the bacteria out of dormancy, where they start to feed on the calcium lactate inside the concrete. They also consume oxygen, which converts the soluble calcium lactate into insoluble limestone. The limestone solidifies in the cracks, sealing them again. This process was inspired by the ability of bones to self-heal after damage.

Composition of Self-healing Concrete

Thank you