Influence of the alkali-silica reaction on the mechanical degradation of concrete

The alkali-silica reaction (ASR) is an important problem that has yet to be completely understood. Owing to the complexity of thisphenomenon, a number of studies have been conducted to characterize its kinetics, its impact on the material, and its structural consequences.This paper focuses on the deteriorating impact of ASR on concrete material, not only in terms of concrete swelling but also in considerationof the induced mechanical degradation. The relationships between concrete expansion and various engineering properties, which are keyparameters in structural assessments, are investigated. First, new mechanical test results are presented. Second, available literature data on theevolution of engineering properties of ASR-affected concrete under free-expansion conditions are collected and statistically analyzed. Theelastic modulus was found to be the best indicator for identifying the progression of ASR in concrete. Conversely, the evolution of compressivestrength was observed to potentially mask damage resulting from the ASR. The tensile behavior of the affected concrete was betterrepresented by the splitting tensile test.Applied MechanicsMaterials and Environmen