Effect of ASR expansion on mechanical properties of concrete

Abstract

In this experimental study the effect of alkali silica reaction [ASR] on the mechanical properties of concrete namely compressive strength, fl exural strength, splitting tensile strength, modulus of elasticity and pull-out strength is presented. The effect of the specimens’ geometry on ASR expansion has also been studied. The results confirm that ASR expansion of over 0.04% causes significant losses in the mechanical properties of concrete, albeit at differing rates. Moreover, this study proves that the specimen geometry has an important role on ASR expansion rate.