UVic scientists developing smart cement that heals, seals cracks
VICTORIA — Scientists at the University of Victoria are working to cement their lead in making so-called smart concrete that heals and seals cracks, greatly reducing potential infrastructure disasters and extending lifespans of buildings and structures.
Civil Engineering Prof. Rishi Gupta says his department is conducting research to develop material combinations that produce long-lasting, crack-free concrete and mixtures that can heal cracks.
“In my world we talk about concrete, and concrete is the world’s most used construction material,” he said at a recent display of his research at the British Columbia’s legislature.
He said the focus of his facility is to come up with a variety of mixtures that allow for crack-free concrete.