The effect of alkali-aggregate reaction on concrete bridge structures

Abstract

This paper shows contemporary issues related to unfavorable effects of concrete alkali-aggregate reaction (AAR) on concrete bridge structures (CBS). Although AAR unfavorable effects on CBS were identified in 1930s, it was much later that AAR was acknowledged as one of the most pronounced deterioration processes in concrete that results in damages to concrete structures. There are two basic forms of AAR: alkali-silica reaction (ASR) and alkali-carbonate reaction (ACR). Compared to ACR, ASR is more prominent, especially in certain geographic parts of the world. Damages to concrete caused by the ASR have negative effect primarily on usability and durability of CBS, what is followed by the decrease in load bearing capacity of structural components and reliability of the whole structure, shortening of service life (SL) and costly repairs. For CBS, simultaneous occurrence of ASR and other degradation processes in concrete, such as those caused by the presence of moisture, water, temperature variations and use of deicing salt during winter, are especially damaging. Based on review of the most relevant literature, this paper is focused on mechanisms and mechanisms factors of the ASR, related contemporary research and reliability design guidelines for CBS that are based on prevention of the initiation and development of ASR.

Keywords

• concrete structures
• bridges
• alkali-aggregate reaction
• alkali-silica reaction
• mechanism
• factors
• concrete
• aggregate
• cement