Review and discussion of polymer action on alkali-silica reaction

Abstract

This paper compares the factors known to influence the deleterious alkali-silica reaction in concrete with the properties that polymers tend to modify in cementitious materials. A discussion on the potential ASR-influencing mechanisms of polymer additions is provided, along with a critical review of the existing literature on the subject. The influence of the potentially significant differences in mechanical properties and sorptivity between polymer-modified and unmodified cementitious materials on the expansion results of alkali reactivity tests is also discussed. According to the available results, the influence of polymers on ASR-related expansion seems to depend on both polymer type and dosage, suggesting the existence of concurrent, not yet well understood mechanisms by which polymers may influence ASR-related expansion. As polymer modification of cementitious materials can lead to significantly lower modulus of elasticity, higher tensile strength and resistance to microcracking, it is suggested that further research on the subject includes not only expansion tests but also an assessment of the resistance of polymer-modified cementitious materials to ASR-related damage, the main concern due to this deleterious phenomena.