What Is The Optimal Ratio Of Calcium-silicate-hydrate (C-S-H) Gel To Capillary Water In A High-performance Concrete Matrix That Would Allow For The Self-healing Of Microcracks Via Autogenous Shrinkage-induced Capillary Imbibition, While Minimizing The Negative Impact On The Concrete's Compressive Strength And Durability In A Marine Environment?

The optimal ratio of calcium-silicate-hydrate (C-S-H) gel to capillary water in high-performance concrete (HPC) for effective self-healing of microcracks, while maintaining compressive strength and durability in marine environments, is proposed to be in the range of 15:1 to 20:1. This range balances the need for sufficient C-S-H to ensure strength and durability with adequate capillary water to facilitate autogenous shrinkage-induced capillary imbibition for self-healing. This ratio helps minimize permeability, which is crucial for resisting degradation in marine conditions.