Title: A Numerical Model to Simulate Alkali- Aggregate Reaction Degradation

Author(s): E. Grimal, A. Sellier, I. Petre-Lazar, Y. Le Pape, and E. Bourdarot

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 234

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 179-190

Keywords: alkali-aggregate reaction (AAR); durability; finite element modeling; structure degradation

DOI: 10.14359/15936

Date: 3/22/2006

Abstract:
Alkali-aggregate reaction (AAR) affects some civil engineering structures and is responsible for unrecoverable swelling and cracking that can affect their functional capability. Modelling the behavior of concrete subjected to AAR is complex. The difficulty is linked to the number of parameters that govern such chemical processes. In order to control the safety level and the maintenance costs of degraded structures, a realistic prediction of the mechanical impact of AAR is compulsory. The aim of this work is to present a new strain visco-elasto-plastic orthotropic damage model including chemical pressure induced by AAR. Experimental results were used to verify the capability of the model to describe the mechanical behavior of degraded structures under different external loading conditions.