BACTERIA ENCAPSULATION USING SYNTHESIZED POLYUREA FOR SELF-HEALING OF CEMENT PASTE

Cracks in concrete can appear at any stage of its service life due to a wide range of internal and external factors. Common repair techniques and materials involves the use of sealant agent, such as epoxy and acrylic, or utilization of biotechnology methods for precipitation of limestone that can heal the cracks. As importantly, the viability of bacteria needed for healing decreases with time. Therefore, it is vital to protect the bacteria from the harsh environment in concrete. In this study, polyurea polymer is proposed as a suitable carrier for the bacteria and nutrition due to its superior properties in terms of fast curing reaction. The polyurea has proven to have the capacity to protect bacteria from harsh environment and to provide a prominent healing effect in cementitious materials.