Further Validation of Alkali-Silica Reaction (ASR) Testing and Approach for Formulating ASR Resistant Mix

Alkali-silica reaction (ASR) is a major concern for the Texas Department of Transportation. In the previous project 0-6656, a volumetric change measuring device (VCMD)-based aggregate chemical method was validated as a rapid (within 5 days) and reliable method to determine aggregate reactivity in terms of measuring composite activation parameter (CAP) and measure aggregate threshold alkalinity (THA). A new accelerated concrete cylinder testing (ACCT) was developed in that project as a potential concrete ASR test. Researchers also proposed a combined innovative approach using both VCMD and ACCT methods with four recommended steps to formulate an ASR-resistant concrete mix. They conducted extensive work to validate the ACCT as a rapid, reliable concrete ASR testing method, and validated the combined proposed performance-based approach to formulate ASR-resistant concrete mixes.Researchers came up with a four-step combined approach that will facilitate (1) formulating case-specific ASR-resistant mixes using locally available materials that ensure long-lasting durable concrete and saving on repair costs; and (2) an effective, safe way to use locally available fly ashes that meet future changes when class F fly ashes will no longer be available.