Evaluation of ASR-Reactive Aggregate Powder on ASR Expansions of Mortars and Concretes Using AMBT and MCPT

Alkali-silica reaction (ASR) is a pathological manifestation that may lead to cracks and further deterioration of the affected structure. As a preventive measure, supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) are widely used. However, several SCMs used are industrial byproducts whose production tends to decrease as a result of sustainable initiatives adopted by industries in their production process. Thus, several studies have focused on evaluating alternative SCMs. In this regard, studies have indicated that the powder produced by grinding reactive aggregates can reduce ASR expansions. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the influence of this reactive aggregate powder (RAP) on ASR expansions in mortars and concretes. Specimens were produced with RAP in the percentages of 10% and 20% replacing cement in mass. The accelerated mortar bar test (AMBT) and miniature concrete prism test (MCPT) were performed. The AMBT results indicated that RAP was effective in reducing the expansions to safe levels. In contrast, from the MCPT results, although reduced, the expansions were above the limit set by the standard. Therefore, the AMBT results were confirmed to be unreliable. Moreover, RAP can be potentially used to reduce ASR expansions. Modifications should be evaluated to reduce expansions to safe levels, such as further grinding of this material.