Enhancing Nordic Infrastructure Resilience: An Analytical Review on the Synergistic Autogenous Self-Healing of Basalt Fiber and Nano-Silica Integrated Concrete

The transition toward zero-maintenance and highly resilient urban infrastructure is a foundational pillar of the European Green Deal, particularly in harsh Nordic environments prone to severe freeze-thaw cycles. This analytical review systematically evaluates the synergistic integration of Basalt Fibers (BF) and Nano-Silica (NS) in cementitious composites to achieve robust autogenous self-healing and superior mechanical performance. Through the cross-calibration of recent empirical data, this study identifies the volumetric combination of ۱.۵% BF and ۲.۰% NS as the optimal hybridization threshold. This specific matrix configuration inherently refines the interfacial transition zone, yielding a ۲۳.۸% enhancement in compressive strength (peaking at ۴۹.۸ MPa) and increasing the post-peak strain capacity by ۵۰%. Structurally, BF acts as a mechanical bridge, restricting initial micro-fissures to below the critical ۶۰ 𝜇μm threshold. Concurrently, NS functions as a chemical catalyst; upon moisture or treated greywater ingress, secondary pozzolanic reactions precipitate Calcium Silicate Hydrate (C-S-H) gel, permanently sealing the micro-cracks. By aligning with circular economy principles and demonstrating exceptional durability against cryogenic degradation, the BF-NS integrated concrete presents a highly viable, sustainable pathway for next-generation Nordic infrastructure.

Keywords:

Autogenous Self-Healing , Basalt Fiber , Nano-Silica , European Green Deal , Nordic Infrastructure , Circular Economy