Alkali silica reaction (ASR) commonly known as ‘concrete cancer’ is a swelling reaction that happens due to highly soluble alkalies cement paste and non-crystalline silica(siliceous minerals) that are generally found in aggregate. Why it is called concrete cancer? As we know concrete is permeable and water percolates in concrete and ASR reaction are happed in the presence of water. In ASR, aggregates containing certain forms of silica will react with alkali hydroxide( NaOH / KOH) in concrete to form a gel that swells as it absorbs water from the surrounding cement paste or the environment. These Viscous gels can induce enough expansive pressure to damage concrete . there is sodium silicate (Na 2 SiO 3 • n H 2 O), also noted Na 2 H 2 SiO 4 • n H 2 O or N-S-H ( sodium silicate hydrate ) form in Gel. The conditions required for ASR to occur are: •A sufficiently high alkali content of th...
Discover valuable insights and expert knowledge for civil engineers at Legend of Civil. Our comprehensive collection of blogs and articles covers a wide range of topics, including structural engineering, construction management, geotechnical engineering, and more. Get access to in-depth discussions, practical tips, and industry trends to stay ahead in the field of civil engineering. Join our community of passionate civil engineers and unlock a wealth of resources.