Concrete, heal thyself! A fascinating video describes the self-healing properties of concrete, known as autonomous healing. Pupils also learn about ways that engineers try to make concrete more resistant to cracks, such as by adding adhesive-filled fibers or by incorporating spores that help promote autonomous healing.

Concepts

building materials, resistant materials, civil engineering, calcium carbonate, technology resources

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Instructional Ideas

• Invite a materials engineer to give a presentation on concrete
• Have the class research different ways that engineers create durable materials
  

Classroom Considerations

• Some basic understanding of chemistry is helpful

Pros

• Provides a prompt for class or group discussion
• Graphics help hold viewer interest
  

Cons

• None