Potential of Alkali–Silica Reactivity of Unexplored Local Aggregates as per ASTM C1260

Alkali–silica reaction (ASR) is one of the major durability issues that affect the material degradation and structural performance, compromising the service life of concrete structures. Therefore, this study was planned to investigate the potential of ASR for locally available unexplored and vastly used aggregates, as per ASTM C1260. Aggregates from five different sources (Shalozan, Abbotabad, Orakzai, Swabi and Sada) were procured from their respective crusher sites. Mineralogical components of these aggregates were studied using the petrographic analysis. Cube, prism and mortar bar specimens were cast using mixture design in accordance with ASTM C1260 and placed in sodium hydroxide solution at 80 °C for 90 days. Identical specimens were also cured in water for the purpose of comparison. It was observed that mortar bar expansion of Orakzai aggregate was higher among the other tested aggregates and greater than 0.20% at 28 days, indicating the reactive nature according to ASTM C1260. Petrographic analysis also revealed the presence of reactive silica (quartzite) in the tested Orakzai source. It was observed that the compressive and flexural strengths of specimens exposed to ASR conducive environment was lower than the identical specimens placed in water. For instance, an approximately 9% decrease in compressive strength was observed for Orakzai aggregates exposed to ASR environment at 90 days compared to similar specimens placed in water curing. Moreover, microstructural analysis showed the development of micro-cracks for specimens incorporating Orakzai source aggregates. This study assists the construction stakeholders for the potential of unexplored local aggregates with regard to ASR before its utilization in mega construction projects.