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Title: Pore Solution Chemistry and Alkali Aggregate Reaction

Author(s): P. J. Nixon and C. L. Page

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 100

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 1833-1862

Keywords: alkali-aggregate reactions; alkali content; blast furnace slag; cement pastes; chemical analysis; concretes; fly ash; mortars (material);silica; siliceous aggregates; reviews; water content; Materials Research

DOI: 10.14359/2245

Date: 4/1/1987

Abstract:
Alkali-aggregate reaction is essentially a reaction between the hydroxyl ions in the pore solution of a mortar or concrete and the siliceous (or other alkali-susceptible) minerals in the aggregate. Study of the pore solution chemistry of mature cement pastes, mortars, and concretes has been possible in recent years through the development of pore solution expression techniques. This paper reviews the progress that has been made in explaining the phenomena associated with alkali-aggregate reactions in terms of pore solution composition. In particular, consideration is given to the effects of alkali level and water content of the concrete on the severity of reaction, the role of alkalis in pulverized fuel ashes, granulated blast furnace slags, and other cement replacement materials in determining their effectiveness in preventing damage and the contribution to pore solution alkalinity made by salt contamination of aggregates and deicing salts.