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Creating pH-sensitive self-healing concrete using sludge waste for sewers (ARC Discovery Project administered by University of South Australia) (2023-2026)

Abstract

In Australia, our 117,000 km of concrete sewer pipes are currently internally corroding at a depth rate of 1-3 mm per annum. The repair of deteriorated concrete is costly and often short-lived. Based on an advanced composite technology, this project will develop a pH-sensitive self-healing concrete that can repair itself without human intervention at the early stage of corrosion. Sludge waste from drinking water treatment will be utilised as a healing agent to mitigate the corrosion. Combined experiments and molecular dynamics simulation will uncover all aspects of the healing process to enable the practical application of this technology. The findings will extend the lifetime of concrete structures and promote a circular economy.

Experts

Professor Chien Ming Wang

Affiliate of Centre for Marine Science
Centre for Marine Science
Faculty of Science
Professor
School of Civil Engineering
Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology
Chien Ming Wang
Chien Ming Wang

Dr Shujian Chen

Lecturer in Structural Engineering
School of Civil Engineering
Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology
Shujian Chen
Shujian Chen