17 Feb What is ASR? What can epoxy installers do about it?
What is ASR in Concrete?
What is ASR in concrete?
At Swedebro, we are familiar with ASR in concrete from our many years of experience installing epoxy systems. An Alkali Silica Reaction (ASR) is a reaction in concrete between hydroxyl ions and the reactive forms of silica in the aggregate. The product is a gel type material that swells when moisture is absorbed. The resulting expansion leads to cracking, spalling, and deterioration of concrete at a rate much faster than typical concrete wear.
Although there is no way to identify ASR in concrete prior to mixing and pouring, there are additives that concrete companies use to help reduce the effects of ASR.
How do I know if ASR has occurred in my concrete?
For poured concrete in an industrial or commercial garage where there is heavy car or truck traffic, the concrete will begin to show signs of failure very soon after installation and use. Cracks and spalls will occur at a much greater rate than what is seen in typical concrete wear. Labs can analyze poured concrete for the presence of ASR in concrete, however, to diagnose ASR we simply look for the typical signs of extreme pitting, cracking, or spiderweb appearance of surface cracking. If concrete with ASR is coated over unknowingly, there will be a failure of the epoxy coating bonding to the concrete. If there is a concern that there might be an issue with your concrete, it is best to have it analyzed by a professional prior to having epoxy flooring installed. Epoxy flooring is not a remedy for ASR in concrete and will only compound the issues related to the floor.
How can you prevent ASR before it happens?
To reduce the possibility of ASR in Concrete, there are additives such as fly ash that help reduce the effects, but it will not totally eliminate it. It is best to discuss this with a concrete company. Customers should not be concerned, however, as ASR in concrete is a very rare occurrence and concrete companies also take measure to help prevent it from being an issue.
What do I do if ASR in concrete is affecting me?
Unfortunately, there is nothing that can be done to fix ASR. The concrete needs to be removed and re-poured. There is no coating material that mitigates the issue of ASR in concrete. Contact us for a quote and professional opinion on your poject.