Smart Crack Control in Concrete through Use of Phase Change Materials (PCMs): A Review

Šavija, B.

doi:10.3390/ma11050654

Smart Crack Control in Concrete through Use of Phase Change Materials (PCMs)

Title

Smart Crack Control in Concrete through Use of Phase Change Materials (PCMs): A Review

Author

Šavija, B. (TU Delft Materials and Environment)

Date

2018

Abstract

Cracks in concrete structures present a threat to their durability. Therefore, numerous research studies have been devoted to reducing concrete cracking. In recent years, a new approach has been proposed for controlling temperature related cracking—utilization of phase change materials (PCMs) in concrete. Through their ability to capture heat, PCMs can offset temperature changes and reduce gradients in concrete structures. Nevertheless, they can also influence concrete properties. This paper presents a comprehensive overview of the literature devoted to using PCMs to control temperature related cracking in concrete. First, types of PCMs and ways of incorporation in concrete are discussed. Then, possible uses of PCMs in concrete technology are discussed. Further, the influences of PCMs on concrete properties (fresh, hardened, durability) are discussed in detail. This is followed by a discussion of modelling techniques for PCM-concrete composites and their performance. Finally, a summary and the possible research directions for future work are given. This overview aims to assure the researchers and asset owners of the potential of this maturing technology and bring it one step closer to practical application.

Subject

concrete durability
smart concrete
phase change materials
microencapsulation
OA-Fund TU Delft

To reference this document use:

http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:7a49be0a-096f-49d6-95a9-e48cc01d3306

DOI

https://doi.org/10.3390/ma11050654

ISSN

1996-1944

Source

Materials, 11 (5)

Part of collection

Institutional Repository