3D simulation of restrained alkali-silica reaction (ASR) expansion for numerical assessment of existing concrete structures
Zhanchong Shi (Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU))
Kathrine Stemland (Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU))
Guomin Ji (Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU))
Max Hendriks (Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), TU Delft - Engineering Structures)
Terje Kanstad (Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU))
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Abstract
Alkali-silica reaction (ASR) can pose a serious threat to existing reinforced concrete (RC) structures. ASR manifests as expansion leading to both additional load effects in the structure and material deterioration, which for structural members can lead to cracking of concrete and yielding of the reinforcement. The free ASR expansion is influenced by restraints from both external loading and internal reinforcement, a phenomenon known as restrained ASR expansion, which is anisotropic. A reliable method that can simulate the effect of ASR on a structural scale as a function of time is needed. The starting point of this modelling approach is free ASR strains that for instance can be deduced from cyclic compressive tests on extracted cylinders from the structure under investigation, frequently denoted Stiffness-Damage Testing (SDT). Furthermore, using the ABAQUS FE platform, a user subroutine to simulate the restrained ASR expansion strain in ASR-affected RC members was developed. Based on this programming, 3D finite element analyses on prism specimens with external loading or internal reinforcement were conducted. The results were compared and validated against experimental measurements. This investigation is part of a large project, denoted as MESLA, where the major objective is to obtain a more reliable assessment of ASR-affected concrete structures by coordinating inspection, material testing, and structural strength analysis.