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Investigation of long-term performance monitoring of cementitious mixes modified with healing agents and polymeric additives of self-healing polymer modified mortar (SHPMM)
Author(s)
Kanwal, Humaira
Wang, Ziping
Hao, Wenfeng
Javed, Kamran
Asim, Muhammad
Onyelowe, Kennedy C.
Arunachalam, Krishna Prakash
Date Issued
March 1, 2026
Type
Article
Abstract
Concrete and mortar exhibit durability limitations in aggressive environments due to cracking, high permeability, and construction defects. Polymer-modified and self-healing cementitious materials have emerged as sustainable solutions; however, the synergistic use of polymer modifiers with chemical–biological healing agents remains underexplored. This study investigates self-healing polymer-modified mortar (SHPMM) incorporating styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) and ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) as partial cement replacements at 0%,4%,8%,12% & 16%. A healing system consisting of 5% calcium lactate, 5% sodium silicate, 1% sodium carbonate. Also 1% effective microorganisms was added to all mixes. Workability, mechanical performance, durability, and microstructural characteristics were evaluated through slump, ultrasonic pulse velocity, strength tests, rapid chloride permeability, SEM, and EDX analyses. The results indicate that polymer addition significantly improves workability, strength, and durability. Slump values increased steadily with increasing polymer content. Optimum performance was observed at 4% and 8% polymer replacement, where permeability was markedly reduced. Compared to the control mix, compressive strength increased by 7–11%, split tensile strength by 12–17%, and flexural strength by 31–33%. RCPT values decreased substantially, with reductions of 32% and 45% for 4% and 8% SBR, and 22% and 58% for 4% and 8% EVA, respectively. Microstructural analysis confirmed improved matrix densification and crack-healing efficiency. EVA demonstrated superior performance compared to SBR, attributed to its powdered form and enhanced bonding characteristics. Overall, the combined application of polymer modifiers and healing agents effectively improves the mechanical performance, durability, and self-healing efficiency of cementitious composites, offering a viable solution for sustainable infrastructure in aggressive environments.
Citation
Ain Shams Engineering Journal, 17(3), 2026