Efficiency of the Dynamic Resonance Frequency in Assessing ASR Induced Damage at Numerous Exposure Conditions

Several non-destructive tools (NDTs) have been developed for the appraisal of ASR-induced deterioration in affected concrete, but the high variability in results has limited their use. Nevertheless, the dynamic resonance frequency has proven to be promising. The efficiency of the dynamic resonance frequency in monitoring the development of ASR in affected concrete is evaluated herein. To carry out a robust assessment of the tool, cylindrical concrete specimens containing very highly reactive coarse aggregates were conditioned at different temperatures over one year. Length and mass change, as well as the dynamic modulus of elasticity for all exposure conditions, were observed over time. The results confirm the usefulness of the resonance frequency for predicting the occurrence of ASR-induced damage particularly at high expansion levels. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the tool in predicting the progress of the reaction was evaluated by comparing its results with microscopic assessments of the ASR-affected specimens.