The Alkali-Silica Reaction (ASR) is a chemical process that occurs in concrete, resulting in the formation of a swelling gel inside aggregates. This phenomenon generates internal stress and ultimately causes cracking. Structures such as hydroelectric dams and bridges are particularly vulnerable to ASR-induced structural expansion and damage.
Simulating these processes helps in understanding and predicting the behavior of ASR-affected concrete structures, contributing to improved maintenance and safety measures. At the LSMS, we develop numerical models using the Finite Element Method (FEM) and the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) method to simulate ASR-induced deformation and damage across multiple scales.
The following video shows cracks propagating in a concrete mesostructure due to the swelling of ASR gel pockets.
This project is a collaboration with the Swiss Federal Office for Energy. For additional information, please contact Lucas Fourel: [email protected]
