Answer to Question #300894 in Civil and Environmental Engineering for Glady_7

Question

What is alkali-silica reactivity? What kinds of problems are caused by ASR? Mention two ways to minimize ASR

Answer 1

The alkali-silica reactivity is a dangerous swelling reaction that occurs over time in concrete between the highly alkaline cement paste and the reactive amorphous silica found in many common aggregates, given sufficient moisture.

It can lead to serious cracking in concrete, resulting in critical structural problems that can even force the demolition of a particular structure.

Ways to minimize ASR:

a.) The use of lithium and barium salts as admixtures is known to reduce ASR.

b.) Use low cement concrete. Less cement provides less alkali to the system.