Methods of investigation of alkali-carbonate reaction in concrete based on the tests of aggregate reactivity

There are numerous methods of testing aggregate reactivity, most of which can be classified into a few basic groups, with regard to the object of research. With the knowledge on what particular methods are capable of it is possible to plan the appropriate course of action. It is especially important when the reaction mechanisms are not exactly known, as in the case of the reaction of alkalis with carbonate aggregate (ACR). The properties of these aggregates make the application of testing methods different than those for silica aggregates not only advisable, but sometimes also necessary. The tests on the reactivity of silica aggregates provide the basis for the formulation of the majority of standards fOr AAR testing that are in force today. The objective of this paper is to present the methodology of ACR testing, taking into consideration the properties of this aggregate.