Influence of alkalis from different sources than cement in the evolution of alkali-silica reaction

Abstract

A bibliographical revision of the existent literature allows showing symptoms of alkali-silica reaction (ASR) in highways, and the practical and economic method uranyl acetate to confirm the presence of ASR. The existence of reaction in concrete pavements of Chihuahua City was verified by a visual observation of patterns cracks, examination of gel deposits and the presence of reactive materials. Considering that the cement used to construct this pavements with problems of ASR, was low alkalis cement, the research was devoted to study the influence of alkalis coming from different sources than cement in the evolution of reaction such as: a) aggregates: gravel and sand, b) mix water, c) additives and d) minerals additions The initial classification of cements like high and low alkalis concerned to ASR must be revised for accept the fact that there is not a unique maximum limit alkalis of cement under which the expansible reactivity cannot occur.