Article révisé par les pairs
| Résumé : | The presence of cracks threatens the durability of current concrete structures, as these cracks serve as pathways for harmful substances that can further degrade the structure's overall integrity. Ideally, it is crucial to avoid the formation of cracks whenever possible, and immediate repair becomes most important upon the occurrence of cracks. However, conventional repair methods are both time-consuming and expensive, often involving repair mortars with high cement content. An alternative approach is proposed in this paper to enhance the sustainability of the construction industry. It suggests an economically viable and practical method of applying biopolymers as an external treatment on horizontal concrete surfaces. This treatment aims to seal cracks, thereby minimizing the entry of harmful substances and subsequently increasing the durability of the structure. The study investigates two biopolymers-crosslinked calcium alginates and gelatin-with varying concentrations of initial products and application methods. The results of the research indicate a reduction in water permeability, enhanced resistance to chloride intrusion, and improved freeze-thaw resistance. The application of calcium alginate as a biopolymer layer exhibits greater potential for external crack sealing compared to the gelatin approach. Its ease of application, effective crack sealing, and improved durability make it a promising choice for future applications. Moreover, its low viscosity during application enables usage in hard-to-reach areas, depending on the concentrations of the raw materials used. This application paves the way for more sustainable repair and preventive applications in existing civil infrastructure and renovation projects. |
