Internal Swelling Reactions in Concrete

Book excerpt: As critical concrete infrastructure deteriorates, engineers need efficient and reliable techniques to appraise the causes and the extent of deterioration, to evaluate the structural consequences and to select effective management protocols and rehabilitation strategies. This book looks at deterioration caused by internal swelling reaction (ISR) mechanisms in concrete, such as alkali-aggregate reaction, delayed ettringite formation and freeze-thaw cycles. The book provides accessible and comprehensive coverage of recent work and developments on the most common ISR mechanisms leading to induced expansion and deterioration. It addresses the implications of ISR on different scales (micro, meso and macro), outlines qualitative and quantitative techniques to assess the condition of affected concrete and introduces the multi-level assessment protocol, using advanced microscopic and mechanical techniques, particularly the stiffness damage test and damage rating index, as a reliable approach to appraise ISR-affected infrastructure. Also included is a detailed case study of the Robert-Bourassa Charest Overpass in Quebec. Internal Swelling Reactions in Concrete: Mechanisms and Condition Assessment is primarily intended for undergraduate and graduate students, as well as academics interested in the field of concrete durability and condition assessment of concrete. It will also be of interest to engineers and infrastructure owners dealing with ISR-related problems.