Nondestructive assessment of alkali-silica reaction in concrete: A review

Abstract

This paper presents state-of-the-art information on the theory and application of nondestructive testing (NDT) techniques used for assessing alkali-silica reaction (ASR) in concrete. The focus is on the application of both linear and nonlinear acoustics (LA and NLA) for detecting ASR. Previous studies have shown that LA methods are less sensitive to early detection of damage in concrete and reliable interpretation of their results depends on the initial condition of the concrete. In contrast, NLA are more sensitive to early cracking and may distinguish ASR from other types of damage. The fundamental concepts of LA and NLA and their application to concrete for detecting ASR are presented with a critical review of their capabilities and limitations. © RILEM 2013.