Journal of Civil Engineering and Materials Application
Journal of Civil Engineering and Materials Application

Application of Rotary-Kiln Manufactured Expanded Lightweight Aggregate in Self-Healing Concrete

https://doi.org/10.22034/jcema.2026.552414.1182
Volume 9, Issue 4
Autumn 2025
Pages 211-220
Journal of Civil Engineering and Materials Application

Document Type : Review

Authors

Ali Kadkhodaei 1
Ali Akbar Shakeri 1
Sadegh Dardaei 2
Fariborz M. Tehrani 3

1 Department of Modern Technologies in Engineering Smart Materials and Structures, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran, 111-14115.

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Modern technologies in engineering smart materials and structures, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran, 111-14115

3 Full Professor, Department of Civil and Geomatics Engineering, California State University, Fresno, USA, 93740-8030

Abstract
Cracking is a significant concern for the durability of concrete infrastructure, resulting in a reduced service life and increased maintenance costs. Self-healing concrete (SHC) technologies offer promising approaches to seal cracks and restore the functionality of concrete structures automatically. However, various SHC techniques, such as encapsulated agents, bacteria-driven systems, and innovative materials, face substantial challenges in field application due to their complexity, fragility, or elevated costs. This paper presents a comprehensive review of these challenges while investigating the potential of rotary-kiln-produced lightweight aggregates (LWA), including expanded shale, expanded clay, and expanded slate, as a scalable and multifunctional solution for SHC. The porous nature of these argillaceous expanded materials enhances the transport and retention of water and healing agents, which are vital for maintaining bacterial viability and promoting autogenous healing. In contrast to many advanced SHC systems, expanded LWA are recognized for their durability, cost-effectiveness, and compatibility with traditional construction practices. This research provides an in-depth examination of LWA applications in SHC, emphasizing their technical feasibility, practical integration, and potential applications in modern construction.

Keywords

self-healing concrete
lightweight aggregate
expanded aggregate
crack sealing
autogenous healing
Subjects
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  • Receive Date 10 October 2025
  • Revise Date 15 November 2025
  • Accept Date 16 December 2025

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