Created the world's first self-healing sewer pipes

Experts from the University of South Australia are testing a new solution to stop concrete deterioration.

pipelines. Self-healing concrete in the form of microcapsules filled with sludge from water treatment (water treatment at wastewater treatment plants) can repair pipes without human intervention.

Researchers will develop microcapsules witha pH-sensitive shell and a "healing" substance core containing alum sludge - a by-product of sewage treatment plants - and calcium hydroxide powder. The combination is highly resistant to microbial corrosion.

Tiny granules are added to concrete forlast step of mixing to protect it from breakage. When the pH changes as the acid level rises, the microcapsules release contents that repair corrosion and other micro-cracks.

Corrosive acid from sulfur-oxidizing bacteriain wastewater, along with excessive loads, internal pressure and temperature fluctuations, leads to cracking of pipes and a reduction in their service life, the scientists explain.

According to the researchers, after a gradualBy replacing 117,000 km of sewer pipes across Australia with concrete and composite microcapsule structures, the country could save about $1.4 billion annually in pipe maintenance and repair. In addition, the use of sludge in the capsules will reduce waste from wastewater treatment plants, which, when disposed of in a landfill, lead to the release of approximately 29.4 tons of carbon dioxide annually.

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