Abstract

In this study, the macroscopical expansion induced by alkali-silica reaction (ASR) and its corresponding ASR products are investigated using ordinary Portland cement (OPC) mortar specimens with a gradient of boosted alkalis. Experimental results show that the expansion increases with the concentration of inherent alkalis. Sodium-boosted samples expand approximately three times as much as potassium-boosted samples. ASR gels that are present in aggregate veins are calcium-free and amorphous; the atomic ratios of ASR gels are nearly independent of the type and quantity of alkali cations. Aggregate ASR gel exudation occurs in high (≥2.5 %) sodium cases and produces potential Na-shlykovite. Crystalline and amorphous calcium-containing ASR products are present in aggregate vicinities in either Na- or K-boosted samples. The higher hydrophilicity of Na-gel in aggregate veins accounts for the larger expansion. Boosted alkali cations are more effective in ASR products formation than in exposing solution. A new observation that NaOH exposure inhibits ASR in K-boosted samples (zero expansion) is reported.

Department(s)

Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering

Comments

U.S. Department of Transportation, Grant 69A3551747126

Keywords and Phrases

Alkali-silica reaction; Boosting and exposing; Expansion mechanism; Raman spectroscopy; Sodium and potassium

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

0008-8846

Document Type

Article - Journal

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2023 Elsevier, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Nov 2023

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