ASTM C441

ASTM C441 – Standard Test Method for Effectiveness of Pozzolans or Ground Blast-Furnace Slag in Preventing Excessive Expansion of Concrete Due to the Alkali-Silica Reaction

Description:

Significance and Use

4.1 This test method may be used as a preliminary or screening test to evaluate the relative effectiveness of a number of different materials being considered for use to prevent excessive expansion due to alkali-silica reaction.

4.2 This test method may also be used to evaluate materials proposed for use on a particular job to prevent excessive expansion due to alkali-silica reaction, by testing in the quantity and in combination with the cement or cements to be used on the job.

4.3 This test method does not assess the suitability of pozzolans or slag for use in concrete. These materials should comply with Specification C618, Specification C989/C989M or Specification C1240.

Scope

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the effectiveness of pozzolans or slag in preventing the excessive expansion caused by reaction between aggregates and alkalies in portland cement mixtures. The evaluation is based on the expansion developed in mortar bars by a combination of portland cement and a pozzolan or slag, made with reactive aggregates (borosilicate glass), during storage under prescribed conditions of test.

1.2 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard. Some values have only SI units because the inch-pound equivalents are not used in practice.