Effectiveness of nondestructive testing for the evaluation of alkali–silica reaction in concrete

Abstract

This paper deals with the application of various test methods for monitoring the progression of alkali–silica reaction (ASR) in laboratory concrete mixtures. The effectiveness of each method is reported. Concrete specimens were stored at 38 °C in high humidity environment according to the Canadian CSA A23.2-14A standard. Mechanical properties were assessed with conventional destructive test and with nondestructive tests (ultrasonic pulse velocity, dynamic modulus of elasticity and nonlinear acoustics). Petrographic examination was performed to confirm damage associated with ASR. Compressive strength and ultrasonic pulse velocity were slightly affected by ASR expansion. Both static and dynamic moduli of elasticity were significantly affected by ASR expansion. Nonlinear acoustics yielded the best correlation with expansion. The ultimate goal of such study would contribute to develop a universal procedure for the evaluation of the state of ASR in a structure. This paper does not answer this issue but is a first step toward that goal.