The differences between short term and long term test methods in ASR experiments

The main objective of this thesis is to identify the common test methods used for the determination of alkali-silica reaction (ASR) in concrete, and furthermore provide testing requirements and limitations of these test methods through rigorous inspection of past research studies conducted on this field. ASR was first detected by Stanton in 1940s, and his research work formed the basis of most of the research studies undertaken in this field. Since then, researchers have been trying to develop faster and reliable test methods in detecting the ASR in concrete. In this thesis, details of 16 short-term and long-term test methods used for the determination of ASR in concrete are provided. Description of the test methods are outlined with respect to the selection of the materials, testing apparatus and requirements. Furthermore, literature survey on the use of these test methods are presented in order to outline the advantages and disadvantages of each method, as well as their limitations. The conclusion of this thesis provides suggestions on the choice of most suitable test method to detect alkali-silica reaction in concrete under varying conditions.