Influence of mineral additives on the resistance of concrete to Alkali-silica reaction

Alkali-silica reaction (hereinafter ASR) in concrete is one of the most deleterious types of chemical corrosion that slowly, however irreversibly, damages concrete structures. The processes of Alkali-silica reaction can cause cracking, pop-outs, and destruction of concrete surface. One of the options to slow down and stop Alkali-silica reaction is the modification of concrete mix with mineral admixtures or chemical admixtures.

The aim of this research is to investigate into the effect of mineral admixtures on the ASR in concrete containing aggregates contaminated with reactive particles and to propose recommendations how to reduce (avoid) ASR.

The doctoral thesis consists of the introduction, three chapters, general conclusions, and the lists of literature references and author’s publications on the topic of the thesis.

The introductory chapter defines the problem, states the relevance of research, explains the aim and objectives of the research, and describes the research methodology, the scientific novelty of the research, the practical value of research results and thesis statements. The chapter ends with the list of author’s publications and conference presentations on the topic of the doctoral thesis and the structure of the thesis.

The first chapter covers the analysis of scientific literature. The analysis of Alkali-silica reaction mechanism is presented and available methodologies used to evaluate Alkali-silica reaction in concrete are described. Mineral admixtures used by other researchers are described and their effect on the characteristics of concrete structures used in ASR favourable environment is analysed. The chapter ends with the formulation of conclusions and specified objectives of the thesis.

The second chapter describes the materials used for experimental tests and their characteristics. Compositions of concrete mixes used in the tests and specimen moulding methods are described. Research methods and laboratory instruments and equipment used are described.

Characteristics of mineral admixtures are described in the third chapter. Physical and mechanical properties of concrete are analysed. Tests of concrete expansion in the alkaline environment are described and analysed. The effect of mineral admixtures and their amount on the properties of concrete and its resistance to Alkali-silica reaction are described.

Six research articles were published and five presentations in scientific conferences in Lithuania and other countries were made on the topic of doctoral thesis.

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.20334/2018-046-M