4.

c Concrete cracking can be caused on a combination of factors such as drying shrinkage, thermal
contraction, restraint (may it be external or internal) to shrinking or shortening, subgrade settlement,
and applied loads. Multiple attempts are tried to solve the previously mentioned problems with
viscosity enhancing agents, water soluble polysaccharides are examples, welan gum or other
cellulose derivatives are also examples. The welan gum for example, it is widely known in the
concrete industry as a stabilizing admixture since it is a cellulose derivative.

Cellulose fibers were formerly used in concrete materials for the sake of the improvement of the
mechanical properties of materials, to improve strength properties of dry specimens for example.
American Concrete Institute, a leading authority and resource involved in concrete design,
construction and materials, addressed the issue by stating that “Even with the best floor design and
proper construction, it is impossible to maintain a crack-free floors. But it can be minimized through
proper and adequate admixture.”

Another method of solving the stated problem, microbiologist Hendrick Jonker studied and thought
how the body can heal bone through mineralization, he looked into whether a similar method could
be used with concrete. By mixing limestone-producing bacteria ( Bacillus pseudofirmus or
Sporosarcina pasteurii) with concrete, he found out that the cracks are patched over by the bacteria.
He called it “Bioconcrete” since it’s as if the concrete has a life since it heals itself. The only problem
in this solution is the cost, it costs twice of the regular concrete admixture.

Then, another company, Premier Magnesia, addressed this problem by creating an Admixture that
can be added to mixed concrete, mortars and precast concrete that will prevent cracks related to
shrinkage of concrete which can reduce compressive creep, reduce shrinkage cracking and improves
durability of the concrete. The admixture can be costly but the company stated that reduction of
maintenance costs of repairs and liabilities can be guaranteed.

Reference:

Martinson, D. (2005), Concrete Cracking, Retrieved from: www.cfwalls.org/foundations/cracking.htm

Indiana, C. (2011), How to Prevent/Minimize Concrete Cracks, Retrieved from:

www.angieslist.com/articles/how-to-prevent-concrete-cracks.htm

Davis, J. (2015), Self healing Concrete Repairs its Own Cracks, Retrieved from:
http://www.iflscience.com/chemistry/self-healing-concrete-repairs-its-own-cracks/

Rodriguez, J. (2016), PREVent-C: Admixture That Can Reduce Concrete Shrinkage Problems,
Retrieved from: https://www.thebalance.com/prevent-c-admixture-845054