Characterization of Deleterious Expansive Reactions in Fagilde Dam

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2013

Authors

Fernandes, I (Author) FCUP; Silva, AS (Author) Other; Gomes, JP (Author) Other; de Castro, AT (Author) Other; Noronha, F (Author) FCUP; dos Anjos Ribeiro, M (Author) FCUP

Journal

Title: Metallography, Microstructure, and Analysis

Vol. 2

Pages: 299-312

ISSN: 2192-9262

Publisher: Springer Nature

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge

Scopus - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-008-GPD

DOI: 10.1007/s13632-013-0089-1

Abstract (EN): A monitoring system has been detecting progressive displacements in Fagilde dam, completed in 1984. Site inspection revealed the existence of random cracking, surface discoloration, and superficial dissolution of cement in the spillway surfaces and in the upstream face of the dam. The macroscopic signs of deterioration, which could be due to different mechanisms, showed an uneven distribution in the exposed surfaces of the structure. Crushed limestone and alluvial siliceous sand were used as aggregates. Alkali-aggregate reaction was considered to be the likely cause of concrete distress. In order to investigate the causes of cracking and of the movements registered in the wall, drill core sampling was performed and the concrete investigated for the occurrence of expansive reactions. Concrete petrography was complemented by other tests in order to assess the probable evolution of the reactions in the structure in the near future. Residual expansion tests, soluble alkalis evaluation, and unconfined compression tests were carried out. Alkali-aggregate reactions and internal sulfate reaction were considered to be the main causes of damage in the concrete. In this study, microscopy showed to be an essential tool in the identification of the main causes of deterioration. © 2013 Springer Science+Business Media New York and ASM International.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific