Autogenous healing mechanism of cement-based materials

Autogenous self-healing is the innate and fundamental repair capability of cement-based materials for healing cracks. Many researchers have investigated factors that influence autogenous healing. However, systematic research on the autogenous healing mechanism of cement-based materials is lacking. The healing process mainly involves a chemical process, including further hydration of unhydrated cement and carbonation of calcium oxide and calcium hydroxide. Hence, the autogenous healing process is influenced by the material constituents of the cement composite and the ambient environment. In this study, different factors influencing the healing process of cement-based materials were investigated. Scanning electron microscopy and optical microscopy were used to examine the autogenous healing mechanism, and the maximum healing capacity was assessed. Furthermore, detailed theoretical analysis and quantitative detection of autogenous healing were conducted. This study provides a valuable reference for developing an improved healing technique for cement-based composites.