Impact of Aggregate Grain Size on ASR-Induced Expansion

Abstract

Alkali–silica reaction (ASR) is a sequence of complex chemical processes, resulting in the formation of alkali silica gels with high swelling ability. ASR leads to the expansion of concrete and the degradation of its microstructure. The susceptibility of aggregates to alkali reaction depends, among other factors, on the type and origin of the aggregate, the presence of reactive forms of silica, the mineral composition, and the geometric properties of the aggregate, such as shape and grain size. This study aimed to investigate the impact of the grain size of polymineral post-glacial gravel aggregate, originating from the northern regions of Poland, on its susceptibility to ASR. The expansion of mortars made from polymineral aggregate and the cracking of grains and cement matrix due to the occurring reactions were analyzed. Based on the conducted research, it was observed that the expansion of mortars depends on the grain size of the aggregate. It was demonstrated that the fraction of reactive aggregate generating the most significant elongation of mortars is in the range of 1.0–2.0 mm. The reaction of silica with alkalis continued until the depletion of reactive components in the aggregate. The relationship between the progress of corrosive processes and the grain size of the aggregate was evident in the form of different linear elongation increments of mortars over time. The expansion of mortars was caused by the swelling ASR gel, inducing stress in the grain and the surrounding cementitious paste.