Title:
Control of Alkali-Silica Reaction in Reinforced Concrete Beams
Author(s):
R. N. Swamy and M. M. Al-Asali
Publication:
Materials Journal
Volume:
87
Issue:
1
Appears on pages(s):
38-46
Keywords:
alkali-aggregate reactions; beams (supports); concrete durability; cracking (fracturing); deflection; expansion; fly ash; reinforced concrete; stiffness; strains; strength; stresses; Materials Research
DOI:
10.14359/2346
Date:
1/1/1990
Abstract:
Test data on the use of a low-calcium Class F fly ash to control the structural deformations occurring in singly reinforced concrete beams undergoing alkali-silica reaction are reported. A highly reactive aggregate producing concrete expansive strains of about 1.5 percent and a moderately reactive aggregate with a maximum concrete expansion of about 0.6 percent were used. The behavior of reinforced concrete beams containing 0, 30, and 50 percent cement replacement by weight of fly ash was monitored over a period of 2 years to examine the controlling influence of the fly ash on strains, cracking, and deflection. The beams were then tested to failure to assess the effect of fly ash on stiffness, strength, and failure modes of the alkali-silica-affected beams. The results show that fly ash has a dual role: it controls deformations as well as preventing loss of strength due to alkali-silica reaction.