Prevent ASR

CUR - Recommendation 89
Recommendation 89 (second, revised edition)
Measures to prevent damage

to concrete by alkali-silica
reaction (ASR)
This CUR Recommendation indicates which procedure should be followed when
designing concrete compositions of concrete to prevent damage by the alkali-silica
reaction (ASR). ASR is a chemical reaction between the alkalis in the concrete and
certain aggregates. The reaction may result in deterioration of the mechanical properties
of the concrete and crack formation. Deleterious ASR will only occur if at least the
following three conditions are met at the same time:
- a sufficient amount of fluid must be present in the concrete permanently or
temporarily;
- a sufficient amount of alkalis must be available in the concrete (effective, to promote
an ASR);
- the aggregate must be ASR-reactive.
Composition of concrete and choice of cement directly affect the effective alkali content
of the concrete. The risk of damage by ASR in concrete can therefore be reduced easily
to a negligibly low level by choosing the correct concrete composition and/or cement
type.
This CUR Recommendation assumes that the first attempt to minimise the risk of
deleterious ASR occurring will be made via the concrete composition (dry environment
or wet without alkalis) or the cement type (in the other environments). Guidelines for
this are provided in this CUR Recommendation. Within the Netherlands most concrete
compositions appear to meet these guidelines without modification. If the concrete
composition and/or cement type does not comply, the ASR-reactivity of the aggregate
must be assessed. This CUR Recommendation provides guidelines for the procedures to
be followed for this and describes the test methods in detail. In exceptional cases the
results of the assessment of the aggregate will force the concrete composition to be
modified. CUR report 2003-1 “Alkali-silica reaction in concrete, Background report for
CUR Recommendation 89” contains the background information on the basis of which
this CUR Recommendation was drawn up.
The Recommendation was drawn up by CUR Regulations Committee 62 “Alkali-silica

reaction in concrete”. At the time of publication of this revised Recommendation the
members of CUR Regulations Committee 62 were the following: ing. R.T. de Vree
(chair), ing. N.J.F. Vonk (reporting secretary until 1-1-2005), drs. R. Haverkort
(reporting secretary from 1-1-2005), ing. P.J.C. van der Aar, ir. J.D. Bakker, J.W. van
den Berg, ir. G.Chr. Bouquet (MICT), dr. M.A.T.M. Broekmans (corresponding
member), ir. W.A. de Bruijn, P.W.J.M. Creemers, W.A. Dieleman, dr. J.B.H. Jansen,
H.A.P. Kouwenhoven, dr. T.G. Nijland, H.A. Rijnsburger, ing. R. Sagel, H.H.M. Soen,
H.J. Strijdonk, drs. E. Vega (coordinator), W. Buist (mentor).
This Recommendation was approved by NEN/CUR committees 353 039 / RC 12

“Concrete” and 353 154 01 / RC 13 “Aggregates and additions for concrete and
mortar”, and replaces CUR Recommendation 38 (first edition, 2002).
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content
1 Subject 4
2 Area of application 4
3 Terms and definitions 4

3.1 Alkali-silica reaction 4
3.2 ASR-reactive 4
3.3 Alkali content 4
3.4 Na2O equivalent (Na2Oe) 4
3.5 Alkali content of cement 5
3.6 Alkali content of concrete 5
3.7 Alkali content of aggregate 5
3.8 Alkali content of additions 5
3.9 Chemically aggressive environment 5
3.10 Expansion 5
3.11 Coarse aggregate 5
3.12 Fine aggregate 5
3.13 Inert aggregate 5
3.14 Additions 5
4 Procedures to prevent deleterious ASR 5

4.1 General information 5
4.2 Modifying the concrete composition 7
4.3 Additions 7
5 Assessment of the risk of deleterious ASR 7

5.2 Total alkali content of concrete 8
5.3 Cement 8
5.3.1 Cement in accordance with NEN-EN 197-1 and 197-4 8
5.3.2 Combinations of cement and fly ash 9
5.4 Aggregate 10
5.5 Limestone powder 10
6 Determination of the alkali content 11

6.1 Cement 11
6.2 Aggregate 11
6.3 Additions 11
6.4 Admixtures 11
6.5 Mixing water 11
7 Assessment of the ASR risk of aggregate 11

7.2 PFM microscopy 12
7.3 Expansion tests 13
7.3.1 Ultra-accelerated mortar bar expansion test (UAMBT) 13
7.3.2 Concrete prism expansion test (CPT) 13
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Appendix A Procedure for assessing the ASR reactivity of aggregates for concrete by means of PFM
microscopy (including sample-taking procedure) 15
Appendix B Procedure for the preparation of blue light-fluorescent epoxy 22
Appendix C Vacuum impregnation of sand samples 23
Appendix D Preparing thin sections 24
Appendix E Procedure for assessing the ASR reactivity of aggregates for concrete by
means of the ultra-accelerated mortar bar expansion test (UAMBT) 26
Appendix F Procedure for assessing the ASR reactivity of aggregates for concrete and
limestone powder by means of the concrete prism expansion test (CPT) 32
Appendix G Notes on paragraph 5.3 and several example calculations 38
Appendix H Requirements for limestone powder 45
Titles of standards and recommendations stated 46
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1 Subject
This CUR Recommendation indicates which procedure should be followed when
designing compositions of concrete to prevent the occurrence of a deleterious alkali-
silica reaction (ASR). The Recommendation does not relate to the deleterious alkali-
carbonate reaction (ACR). The Recommendation should be viewed in combination with
and as a supplement to NEN-EN 206-1 + NEN 8005 and CUR Recommendations 93
and 97.
2 Area of application
This CUR Recommendation applies to concrete that is used in any environment
according to NEN-EN 206-1 + NEN 8005 and complies with NEN 6720 or CUR
Recommendations 93 and 97. This CUR Recommendation also applies to self-
compacting / low-compaction concrete in which limestone powder and/or fly ash or
other additions are used.
3 Terms and definitions
3.1 Alkali-silica reaction (ASR): the reaction of certain reactive, silica-containing

components of aggregate with the alkalis that are present in the pore water of concrete,
which leads to the formation of gel-like reaction products. These reaction products may
absorb pore water, causing them to expand and exert pressure within the concrete. As a
result of this, the mechanical properties will initially deteriorate, including the tensile
strength, and the concrete may eventually start to crack. The deterioration of mechanical
properties can be damaging to the structure. When crack formation occurs as a result of
ASR this is called deleterious ASR.
3.2 ASR-reactive: an aggregate (mixture) that does not meet the limiting values determined
in chapter 7. An aggregate (mixture) that does meet them is described as being non-
ASR-reactive.
Explanation
Some aggregates contain amorphous or low-crystalline silica that dissolves faster
on the basis of its less well-ordered crystal structure and/or its greater specific
surface area and/or reacts faster with alkalis compared to highly crystalline quartz.
The most important, potentially alkali-reactive components of aggregates and/or
individual aggregate grains are opal, chalcedony, moganite, cristobalite, tridymite,
cryptocrystalline quartz, (porous) flintstone (silex / chert / flint), impure sandstone
(grey wacke, siltstone), siliceous limestone and certain types of volcanic rock (due
to the glass present in it).
Whether the reaction occurs or not also depends on the content of these reactive
components in the aggregate. In view of the uncertainty with regard to the location of
the critical area (pessimum) for many aggregates, the decision was made to divide them
into non-ASR-reactive and (potentially) ASR-reactive aggregates. The former category
matches the designation ‘subcritical’ used elsewhere; the latter category includes both
‘critical’ and ‘supercritical’ materials.
Please take into account the fact that mixing aggregates may affect the ASR-reactivity
of the mixture and may increase reactivity compared to the separate materials.
3.3 Alkali content: the amount of alkalis expressed in Na2O equivalent (Na2Oe).
3.4 Na2O equivalent (Na2Oe): a measure for the alkali content, expressed as the sodium
oxide (Na2O) content + 0.658 multiplied by the potassium oxide (K2O) content in %
(m/m) or in kg/m3.
4 |
3.5 Alkali content of cement: the acid-soluble sodium oxide (Na2O) + potassium oxide
(K2O) content in cement, determined in accordance with 6.1, and expressed in % (m/m)
Na2O equivalent.
3.6 Alkali content of concrete: the sodium oxide (Na2O) and potassium oxide (K2O) content
in concrete, determined in accordance with 5.2, and expressed in % (m/m) Na2O
equivalent.
3.7 Alkali content of aggregate: the sodium oxide (Na2O) and potassium oxide (K2O)
content in the aggregate, determined in accordance with 6.2, and expressed in % (m/m)
Na2O equivalent.
3.8 Alkali content of additions: the sodium oxide (Na2O) + potassium oxide (K2O) content in
the addition, determined in accordance with 6.3 and expressed in % (m/m) Na2O
equivalent.
3.9 Chemically aggressive environment: environment that can be classified as environ-

mental category XA1, XA2 or XA3 in accordance with Article 4.1 of NEN-EN 206-1
and Appendix A of NEN 8005.
3.10 Expansion: the swelling of mortar prisms containing the aggregate to be applied or a
mixture of it, determined in accordance with 7.3.1, or the swelling of concrete prisms
containing the aggregate, determined in accordance with 7.3.2.
3.11 Coarse aggregate: aggregate for concrete or mortar with D > 4 mm.
3.12 Fine aggregate: aggregate for concrete or mortar with D ≤ 4 mm.
3.13 Inert aggregate: non-reactive aggregate tested in accordance with paragraphs 7.2 and
7.3 of this CUR Recommendation with a maximum expansion of 0.05%, determined in
accordance with Appendix E (UAMBT) of this CUR Recommendation.
3.14 Additions: finely divided material used in concrete in order to improve certain properties
or to achieve special properties. There are two types of inorganic additions:
- nearly inert additions (type I)
- pozzolanic or latent hydraulic additions (type II)
4 Procedures to prevent deleterious ASR
4.1 General information

For all environments the procedure to be followed consists of completing the flow chart
in Figure 1. If the flow chart results in the conclusion ‘no risk of deleterious ASR’,
testing of the other aspects and/or the measures stated afterwards in the flow chart can
be skipped.
If the flow chart results in the conclusion: ‘Modify concrete composition’ the procedure
in 4.2 will have to be completed.
5
Dry Wet Wet Sea water Wet with

environment environment environment environment supply of
with de-icing alkalis
salts
Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Thickness *) No
of building
part ≤ 1.0 m
Total **)
Yes
alkali content
of concrete ≤ 3.0
kg/m3
No
Yes Ja Cement complies with art.5.3
No
No Does concrete Yes

contain limestone
powder
Assessment of ASR risk for aggregates (PFM): Yes Limestone powder corrected
Content of (porous flintstone + chalcedony+ opal) ≤ 2 SiO2-content ≤ 2%m/m (see
% (V/V) par 5.5)
Yes No No
Yes Ultra-accelerated mortar bar Intended

expansion test (UAMBT) service life > 50
linear expansion < 0.1% years
No Yes No
Concrete prism expansion Total Concrete prism expansion

Yes test (CPT) alkali content Yes test (CPT) with full
Ja
linear expansion ≤ 0.04% of concrete ≤ composition
3.0 kg/m 3 linear expansion ≤ 0.04%
No No Yes No
No risk of Modify concrete composition

deleterious
ASR
Figure 4.1 Assessment of the risk of deleterious ASR
6 |
Explanation
*) In a dry environment with a thickness ≤ 1 metre: in a dry environment expansion
of any ASR gel will not occur. Further assessment of the risk of deleterious ASR will
therefore not be necessary. However, it must be monitored whether the environment
changes during the service life of the structure or the structural component.
**) In the environments “dry” with a thickness > 1 metre and “wet without de-icing
salts” it is assumed that there is no risk of addition of alkalis from the outside. If the
alkali content of the concrete is sufficiently low, there will therefore be no risk of
deleterious ASR; if it is above 3.0 kg/m3 the procedure in flow chart 1 will have to be
completed. When using a high limestone powder content it will not be inconceivable
that fewer Na+ and K+ ions can be bound due to a CSH phase with a higher Ca
content, as a result of which the former will become available for a possible ASR.
This is why VC 62 is performing further research into the limiting value for the
overall alkali content. However, it must be monitored whether the environment
changes during the service life of the structure or the structural component.
In all other environments there will be a risk of external addition of alkalis. The risk
of deleterious ASR can therefore not be limited only by limiting the alkali content of
the concrete. In this case the flow chart of Figure 1 will have to be completed to
ascertain whether any measures must be taken.
4.2 Modifying the concrete composition

If 4.1 results in the conclusion ‘Modify concrete composition’, one of the following
measures can be selected:
- apply a cement according to 5.3, or
- do not use the aggregate.
4.3 Additions
When using inorganic additions other than limestone powder and/or fly ash in environ-
ments other than “dry” and for a thickness of over 1 metre the risk of deleterious ASR
must be avoided by meeting the requirements in paragraph 5.3 of this CUR Recommen-
dation.
5 Assessment of the risk of deleterious ASR

In order to assess the risk of a deleterious ASR and to determine which measures must
be taken to prevent a deleterious ASR, the procedure in Chapter 4 relating to the
environment in question must be followed. Depending on the environment an insight
will be required into the alkali content of the concrete (5.2), of the cement type used
(5.3) or the ASR reactivity of the aggregate (5.4).
Explanation
A deleterious ASR in concrete can only occur if the following conditions are met at
the same time:
- a sufficient amount of fluid must be present in the concrete permanently or
temporarily;
- a sufficient amount of alkalis must be available in the concrete (effective, to
promote an ASR);
- the aggregate must be ASR-reactive.
The occurrence of a deleterious ASR can be prevented by making sure that at least
one of the three conditions mentioned above is not met. ASR can also be prevented
by choosing a particular concrete composition and/or cement type, in which case
assessment of the ASR reactivity of the aggregate will not have to be performed.
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5.2 Total alkali content of concrete

The alkali content of concrete must be calculated from the alkali content of cement,
aggregate, admixtures and additions, and of the mixing water, all of these determined in
accordance with Chapter 6, as well as from the alkali content of other possible
components. The alkali content of concrete must be expressed in the Na2O equivalent in
kg per m3 of concrete.
Explanation
Example of the calculation of the total alkali content
Contribution
3 3
290 kg/m CEMI with 0.70% (m/m) Na2Oe 2.0 Kg/m
3 3
100 kg/m fly ash with 1.8% (m/m) Na2Oe 1.8 Kg/m
3 3
1070 kg/m gravel with 0.010% (m/m) Na2Oe 0.11 Kg/m
3 3
760 kg/m sand met 0.012% (m/m) Na2Oe 0.091 Kg/m
3 3
128 kg/m mixing water with 0.001% (m/m) Na2Oe 0.001 Kg/m
3 3
3,0 kg/m additive with 2.0% (m/m) Na2Oe 0.060 Kg/m
3
The total alkali content of the concrete (in Na2Oe) is 4.1 Kg/m
The total alkali content of this concrete is more than 3 kg/m3, which means that it
must be tested in accordance with paragraph 5.3. According to 5.3.2 (A) the fly ash
content of the cement + fly ash mixture must be at least 25% (m/m) (100/390 in this
case) at a an alkali content for the fly ash of 3% or less (1.8% in this case). The alkali
content of the cement must be 0.9% (m/m) or less (0.70% in this case) at an alkali
contribution of 0.6 kg/m3 or less from the other concrete constituents (0.262 in this
case). The above mixture therefore does meet this CUR Recommendation. The reason
for this is that the effective alkali content (the alkalis that are available for the ASR via
pore water) is used if the requirements of paragraph 5.3 are met. See for an
explanation of this Appendix G.
5.3 Cement
5.3.1 Cement in accordance with NEN-EN 197-1 and 197-4

For the following types of cement that comply with NEN-EN 197-1 and 197-4 it can be
assumed that deleterious ASR will not occur in concrete if the cement complies with the
requirements stated in Table 1 and if it is the only cement used.
Table 1 Requirements for cement with preventive effect with regard to ASR
Type of cement CEM II/B-V CEM III/A CEM III/B

Cement with a fly ash or slag content
≥ 25 ≥ 30 ≥ 50 ≥ 66
[% (m/m)] of
Na2Oe of fly ash in cement [% (m/m)] x ≤ 2.0 2.0 < x ≤ 3.0 3.0 < x ≤ 4.5 n/a n/a
maximum alkali content of cement [% (m/m)]:
If alkali contribution of other
3 1) 1.1 1.3 1.6 1.1 1.5
components ≤ 0.6 kg/m
3 1) 2) 0.9 1.1 1.5 0.9 1.3
components 0.6 < y ≤ 1.2 kg/m
3 1) 3) 0.8 1.0 1.4 0.8 1.2
1
In this table “other components” is understood to include all constituents of the concrete, except
cement and fly ash.
2
If it is proven that the alkali content of the admixtures and additions other than fly ash is < 0.1
3 3
kg/m then the alkali contribution of the other constituents can considered to be 1.2 kg/m at
maximum.
3 3
If the requirement “alkali content of other components ≤ 1.6 kg/m ” is not met the alkali content
must be calculated in accordance with Appendix G of this CUR Recommendation.
8 |
When using CEM II/B-V and if the alkali content of the fly ash used in it is unknown,
an Na2Oe content of x ≤ 2.0% (m/m) must be assumed.
5.3.2 Combinations of cement and fly ash

In practice combinations of cement are regularly used, either with or without the
addition of fly ash. This paragraph states the requirements to which the cement, the fly
ash or their combinations are subject. For a more detailed specification of this please
refer to Table 2 and Appendix G of this CUR Recommendation.
A. Concrete based on CEM I with fly ash

A deleterious ASR will not occur if Portland cement and fly ash are applied in concrete
in accordance with or in equivalence to NEN-EN 206-1 + NEN 8005 and when the
following conditions are met:
• CEM I in accordance with NEN-EN 197-1;
• fly ash in accordance with CUR Recommendation 94;
• fly ash content calculated on the basis of the mass of the cement + fly ash
- for an alkali content of the fly ash ≤ 3.0% (m/m), ≥ 25% (m/m) or
- for an alkali content of the fly ash > 3% and ≤ 4.5% (m/m), ≥ 30% (m/m);
• alkali content of the CEM I:
- ≤ 0.9% (m/m) for an alkali contribution of ≤ 0.6 kg/m3 from the other constituents
of the concrete;
- ≤ 0.7% (m/m) for an alkali contribution of > 0.6 kg/m3 and ≤ 1.2 kg/m3 from the
other constituents of the concrete;
- ≤ 0.6% (m/m) for an alkali content of > 1.2 kg/m3 and ≤ 1.6 kg/m3 from the other
constituents of the concrete.
In this case “other constituents” is understood to include all constituents except cement
and fly ash.
B. Mixtures of CEM III/B and CEM I

For mixtures of CEM III/B and CEM I it can be assumed that deleterious ASR will not
occur in concrete if the following requirements are met:
• cement in accordance with NEN-EN 197-1 or 197-4;
• content of blast furnace slag of the combination CEM III/B and CEM I ≥ 50%
(m/m);
• alkali content of the combination CEM III/B and CEM I meets the requirements for
CEM III/A.
C. Mixtures of CEM I with fly ash and CEM III/A or B

For mixtures of CEM I with fly ash and CEM III/A or B it can be assumed that
deleterious ASR will not occur in concrete if the following requirements are met:
• cement in accordance with NEN-EN 197-1 or 197-4 and
• if a mixture is prepared of CEM I with fly ash that meets the requirements for
“Concrete based on CEM I with fly ash” and CEM III/A or CEM III/B that meets
the requirements in Table 1.
D. Mixtures of CEM III/A or B with fly ash

For mixtures of CEM III/A or B with fly ash it can be assumed that deleterious ASR
will not occur in concrete if the following requirements are met:
• cement in accordance with NEN-EN 197-1 or 197-4 and
• CEM III/A or CEM III/B meets the requirements in table 1 and
• fly ash in accordance with CUR Recommendation 94.
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Table 2 Overview of requirements in paragraph 5.3.2 “Combinations of cement

and/or fly ash”
CEM I with CEM I with CEM III/B and CEM I CEM III/B and CEM I
Type of cement:
fly ash fly ash without fly ash with fly ash
Binder with slag content
[% (m/m)] of n/a n/a ≥ 50 In accordance with
fly ash: description under C
- fly ash content [% (m/m)] ≥ 25 ≥ 30 n/a (see above)
- Na2Oe of fly ash [% (m/m)] ≤ 3.0 3.0 < x ≤ 4.5 n/a
Maximum alkali content of cement [% (m/m)]:
If alkali contribution of other 0.9 0.9 1.1
3 3)
constituents ≤ 0.6 kg/m
If alkali contribution of other 0.7 0.7 0.9 In accordance with
3 1) 3) description under C
(see above)
If alkali contribution of other 0.6 0.6 0.8
3 2) 3)
1) 3
If it is proven that the alkali content of the admixtures and additions other than fly ash is < 0.1 kg/m it can be assumed
3.
that the maximum alkali contribution of the other components is 1.2 kg/m
2) 3
If the requirement “alkali contribution of other components ≤ 1.6 kg/m ” is not met the alkali content must be calculated
in accordance with Appendix G of this CUR Recommendation.
3)
In this table 'other components' is understood to include all raw materials in the concrete, except cement and fly ash.
5.4 Aggregate
Aggregate must comply with NEN-EN 12620 and the relevant provisions of NEN 5905.
Based on the assessment according to Chapter 7, aggregate is classified as non-ASR-
reactive and ASR-reactive. The procedure in Chapter 7 takes into account that the
content of reactive components of the total aggregate mixture may enter the ASR-
reactive area by mixing aggregate components or that the reactivity may increase for
other reasons.
5.5 Limestone powder

The limestone powder must comply with NEN-EN 12620 and the provisions of
Appendix H. Based on the procedure below, limestone powder is classified as non-
ASR-reactive and ASR-reactive.
If the SiO2 content of the limestone powder is ≤ 2% (m/m) (“pure silica” content
determined in accordance with NEN-EN 196-2) the limestone powder will not be ASR-
reactive.
If the SiO2 content is > 2% (m/m) the ASR reactivity of the limestone must be
determined via PFM. The method for this is provided in Appendix A. The following
supplementary requirements apply:
• the PFM analysis must be performed on the sand 0/4 fraction of the limestone taken
from the same unambiguously described unit, both in geological and spatial terms,
as the limestone powder;
• when counting the content of non-reactive quartz must also be measured. In this case
non-reactive quartz is understood to mean grains that consist entirely of the mineral
quartz and do not consist of cryptocrystalline or microcrystalline quartz.
If the total quartz content (pure silica) minus the mineral quartz content is ≤ 2% (m/m)
the limestone powder can be designated as non-ASR-reactive.
10
Comment
The pure silica content is expressed in % m/m. For a PFM analysis the non-reactive
quartz content is expressed in % V/V. Strictly speaking, this means that these two
cannot be subtracted. In this CUR Recommendation the ratio between the density of
limestone (that is suitable as a addition for concrete) and the density of quartz may
be considered constant and a value of 1 may be assumed. This means that the results
of the PFM (the non-reactive part) may be subtracted directly from the pure silica
content and that the final result may be expressed in % m/m.
If the total quartz content (pure silica) minus the non-reactive quartz content is > 2%
m/m the ASR reactivity must be assessed with CPT as described in Chapter 7.3.2 and
Appendix F of this CUR Recommendation.
Based on this test, the limestone powder is considered to be non-ASR-reactive if the

average of the tests is ≤ 0.04%. This result will only be valid for the tested combination
of aggregate mixture / limestone powder.
6 Determination of the alkali content
6.1 Cement
The alkali content of cement must be determined in accordance with NEN-EN 196-21.
6.2 Aggregate
The alkali content of the aggregate must be determined by means of a suitable
instrumental analysis method after digesting it in accordance with NEN 5937.
6.3 Additions
The alkali content of fly ash must be determined in accordance with NEN-EN 450.
The alkali content of other additions must be determined in accordance with NEN-EN
196-21.
6.4 Admixtures
The alkali content of admixtures must be determined in accordance with NEN-EN 480-
12.
6.5 Mixing water

The alkali content of mixing water must be determined in accordance with NEN-EN
1008.
7 Assessment of the ASR risk of aggregate

The ASR reactivity of aggregate must be determined by measuring the amount of
porous flintstone + chalcedony + opal present by means of PFM microscopy in
combination with an ultra-accelerated mortar bar expansion test (UAMBT), performed
in accordance with the procedures in Appendices A and E, or in combination with a
concrete prism expansion test (CPT), performed in accordance with Appendix F.
11
The test must be performed as followed:

• Sand, gravel or crushed limestone are assessed by PFM in accordance with 7.2,
performed on fine aggregate and coarse aggregate separately, after which the ASR
reactivity of:
- both separate components is assessed, in other words, both will have to meet the
limiting value stated in 7.2, or
- the total aggregate mixture is assessed and must comply with the provisions of 7.2,
followed by an expansion test to be selected on the basis of Table 3.
• Crushed natural stone (except for crushed limestone): assessment by means of
expansion test according to 7.3.
• Factory own crushed concrete aggregate: if this material has already been assessed,
it will not have to be retested upon reuse. When determining the alkali content of
concrete in accordance with 5.2 the alkali contribution of the cement stone bound to
the aggregate must be taken into account.
• Concrete and mixed recycled aggregate as well as sieve and crusher sand and fine
recycled aggregate: in view of the greater variety in the composition of these
materials a cement in accordance with 5.3 is prescribed for use in environments
other than “dry” or “wet without de-icing salts”.
Table 3 Diagram for selection of aggregate expansion test

Porous Environment Intended Expansion test
flintstone + service life according to
chalcedony +
opal content
≤ 2% (V/V) Dry and thickness > 1 m and n/a 7.3.1 or 7.3.2
3
Na2Oe concrete > 3.0 kg/m
Wet without de-icing salts or alkali n/a 7.3.1 or 7.3.2
supply and Na2Oe of concrete > 3.0
3
kg/m
Other environments n/a 7.3.1 or 7.3.2
> 2% (V/V) Dry and thickness > 1 m and ≤ 50 7.3.2
3
Na2Oe concrete > 3.0 kg/m > 50 Cannot be assessed
as yet
Wet without de-icing salts or alkali ≤ 50 7.3.2
supply and Na2Oe of concrete > 3.0 > 50 Cannot be assessed
3
kg/m as yet
Other environments ≤ 50 7.3.2
> 50 Cannot be assessed
as yet
Explanation
In practical terms this means that, when applying aggregates with > 2 vol.% porous
flintstone + chalcedony + opal, a cement according to 5.3 is a necessary measure
for preventing ASR in the following types of concrete with an intended life span of
> 50 years:
- dry environment with a thickness of > 1 metre and Na2Oe of the concrete > 3.0
kg/m3;
- wet environment without thawing salts and Na2Oe of the concrete > 3.0 kg/m3;
- in concrete in all other environments.
7.2 PFM microscopy

The assessment of the ASR reactivity by means of PFM microscopy must be performed
in accordance with Appendix A.
The limiting value between ASR-reactive and non-ASR-reactive is set to 2 vol.%

porous flintstone + chalcedony + opal.
12
When testing an unambiguously described unit both geological and spatial terms, the
aggregate extracted from it will be considered non-ASR-reactive on the basis of this test
if the result of the test in accordance with Appendix A is ≤ 2% (V/V).
Both fine and coarse aggregate must comply with the limiting value to be considered
non-ASR-reactive upon separate testing using this method. These materials must also
comply with the test in accordance with 7.3.
When testing the total aggregate mixture this mixture will be considered non-ASR-
reactive on the basis of this test if:
• the fine aggregate contains ≤ 2% (V/V) porous flintstone + chalcedony + opal
and
• the total aggregate mixture contains ≤ 2% (V/V) porous flintstone + chalcedony +
opal.
The mixture must also comply with the test in accordance with 7.3.
Explanation
In the latter case this means that, if the porous flintstone + chalcedony + opal
content of the fine aggregate is below 2 vol.%, the content of the gravel may be
slightly higher than 2% (V/V).
7.3 Expansion tests

General information
There are two possibilities for determining the ASR reactivity by means of expansion
tests: a fast method by means of the ultra-accelerated mortar bar expansion test
according to 7.3.1 and the concrete prism expansion test according to 7.3.2. For
selecting a suitable test please refer to Table 3 and/or Figure 1.
Countercheck
If the concrete prism expansion test is used as a countercheck for the ultra-accelerated
mortar bar expansion test for materials with ≤ 2% (V/V) porous flintstone + chalcedony
+ opal, the results of the concrete prism expansion test will be deciding. In other words,
if this aggregate is considered to be ASR-reactive according to 7.3.1 it can be retested
according to 7.3.2, whereby the results of the latter test will be accepted as final, even if
the results indicate a non-ASR-reactive nature.
7.3.1 Ultra-accelerated mortar bar expansion test (UAMBT)

The assessment of the ASR reactivity by means of the ultra-accelerated mortar bar
expansion test must be performed in accordance with Appendix E.
The requirement for 14-day expansion of non-ASR-reactive materials is < 0.1%.
Materials that show a greater expansion are considered to be ASR-reactive.
When testing an unambiguously described unit both in geological and spatial terms, the
if the average result of the tests is < 0.1%.
7.3.2 Concrete prism expansion test (CPT)

The assessment of the ASR reactivity by means of the concrete prism expansion test
(CPT) must be performed in accordance with Appendix F. When testing aggregates a
distinction must be made between the two following situations:
13
Situation 1: the content (porous flintstone + chalcedony + opal) is ≤ 2% V/V for each of
the separate components of the aggregate mixture. The CPT may be performed on the
separate components of the aggregate mixture.
• When assessing fine aggregate, inert coarse aggregate must be used.
• When assessing coarse aggregate, inert fine aggregate must be used.
Situation 2: the content (porous flintstone + chalcedony + opal) is > 2% V/V for one of
the components of the aggregate mixture. The CPT must be performed using all
components of the aggregate mixture and any limestone powder that will be applied.
The requirement for expansion of non-ASR-reactive materials after 52 weeks is ≤

0,04%. Materials that show more expansion are considered to be ASR-reactive.
When testing an unambiguously described unit both in geological and spatial terms, the
if the average result of the tests is ≤ 0.04%.
14
Appendix A Procedure for assessing the ASR reactivity of aggregates for concrete
by means of PFM microscopy (including sample-taking procedure)
A1 Introduction
As a supplement to 7.2, this appendix describes polarisation and fluorescence
microscopy (PFM) as a test method that can be used to determine the potential
reactivity to the alkali-silica reaction of aggregates for concrete. The method is based on
RILEM AAR 1.
This petrographic method is suitable for a fast assessment of the ASR reactivity of
aggregates that contain porous flintstone (silex, chert or flint), chalcedony and opal as
potentially reactive components.
Explanation
For chalcedony no difference is made between porous and non-porous chalcedony.
For opal it must be possible to recognise and quantify it.
If any (volcanic) glass is present in identifiable form this must be included.
The PFM test involves the studying and characterising of minerals in slices using
polarisation and fluorescence microscopy. By using polarised light conclusions can be
drawn about the mineralogical composition of the separate grains in the relevant
preparations. By applying fluorescence microscopy the locations in which the resin has
penetrated will light up; the locations without resin remain dark. As a result, the porous
flintstone grains (potentially ASR-reactive grains) can be distinguished from non-
porous flintstone. Non-porous flintstone grains are considered to be non reactive to
ASR. By ‘point-counting’ the mineralogical composition of the aggregate is determined
for a prescribed number of points in the grains on the slice.
A2 Sampling
To assess the potential ASR-reactivity, samples must be taken from a batch of aggregate
from the quarry or mining location in accordance with the procedure in NEN-EN 932-1.
The samples for PFM and the ultra-accelerated mortar bar expansion test (UAMBT)
described in Appendix E must be taken from one and the same representative batch of
material and this must be done at the same time. The sample must be given an
unambiguous identification.
The total amount of sample material to be studied in the petrographic test (PFM) and the
ultra-accelerated mortar bar expansion test (UAMBT) described in Appendix E must
comply with the requirements in Table A1 for the various grain size classes. If only one
type of test is performed at least half the amount stated in this table must be taken for
the grain size class in question.
Table A1 Sample size
Maximum grain size Minimum amount

(mm) (kg)
63 50
32 35
16 25
≤4 10
15
A3 Equipment and required materials

This section provides a list of materials required for the performance of the petrographic
test. The laboratory that performs the petrographic test must have at its disposal the
laboratory equipment specified below and the following required materials: magnifying
glass, steel knife, diamond cutting machine.
Sieve: a set of standard sieves in accordance with series A of ISO 3310 with the
following square mesh sizes: 63 mm, 31.5 mm, 16 mm, 8 mm, 4 mm, 2 mm, 1 mm, 500
µm, 250 µm, 125 µm and 63 µm.
Balance: a laboratory balance for weighing the aggregate, cement and demineralised
water. This balance must have a load capacity of at least 5 kg and a measuring
inaccuracy of no more than 0.1%. The balance for weighing the chemicals must have a
load capacity of at least 50 g and a measuring inaccuracy of no more than 0.01%.
Sample divider (splitter): a device for quartering or dividing a sample into equal and
representative subsamples in accordance with the procedure in NEN-EN 932-1.
Diluted hydrochloric acid: a diluted 10% (m/m) solution of hydrochloric acid, HCl.
Jaw crusher: an adjustable laboratory jaw crusher, capable of crushing materials up to a

maximum grain size of around 2 mm.
Impregnating, grinding and polishing agents: impregnating, grinding and polishing

agents are required, plus substances for vacuum-impregnation of slices and the
production of fluorescent slices with a thickness of 20–30 µm and a length x width of
around 50 mm x 30 mm. For the production method of impregnating agent please refer
to Appendix B. The following substances are required for this:
• synthetic resin;
• hardener;
• blue light-fluorescent dye.
Microscopes: a stereo microscope with a magnification of up to around 50x and a

polarised light microscope with fluorescent-microscopic facilities or a combination of a
polarisation and fluorescence microscope with various magnifications: 25x, 50x, 63x,
100x, 200x or 400x. The polarisation and fluorescence microscope must have the
following filtering facilities:
• a blue excitation filter, type BG12, with a maximum transmitted wavelength of 400–
490 nm;
• a yellow filter, type K510 or K530, with a maximum transmitted wavelength of
500–550 nm or 510–530 nm.
Point-counting system: A ‘point-counting’ system that can be connected to the

microscope for quantifying the various components in the preparations of the sample
material to be tested. The system must consist of a special table that can move in a
crosswise fashion and whereby a constant grid is guaranteed, which is linked to an
electronic counting key (this may also be performed manually).
A4 Visual inspection of sample

The sample material supplied must be studied with the naked eye and with a stereo
microscope to determine the nature, the general characteristics of the various
components and the presence of contaminants such as clay-like materials, soft
components of organic origin, etc., which may affect the quality of the material in a
negative manner. The information obtained must be included in the report (see B1.10),
but it must not be used as a criterion for assessing the sample material.
16
A5 Sample preparation
This paragraph describes a step-by-step procedure for preparing a supplied sample of
aggregate in the laboratory. The preparation consists of drying, crushing, sieving and
quartering for the ASR test by means of PFM and/or UAMBT (see Appendix E), as
well as for taking a subsample for the PFM test. The sample preparation must be
performed in accordance with NEN-EN 932-2.
To increase the homogeneity of the sample material and the reliability of the test results
the total amount of sample material required must be prepared in one batch and at the
same time for both tests. As the sample material supplied is usually damp or wet the
required amount of material to be tested must be dried first before quartering.
Sand 0/1 or sand 0/2

Sample preparation consists of the following steps:
1. wash the material over a sieve with a mesh size of 63 µm;
2. dry the total amount of material to be tested at 105°C until its mass is constant;
3. quarter the dried sample in accordance with NEN-EN 932-2;
4. take a representative subsample of one quarter in accordance with NEN-EN 932-2 to
prepare the thin slice for the PFM test.
Explanation
For sand, grain classes 0/1 or 0/2 the sample material does not require crushing
after drying and quartering. The subsample must be tested as it was taken.
Sand 0/4
Sample preparation consists of the following steps:
1. wash the material over a sieve with a mesh size of 63 µm;
3. quarter the dried sample in accordance with NEN-EN 932-2;
4. sieve one quarter of the dried sample into three fractions, namely 0/2, 2/4 and > 4;
5. crush the fraction greater than 4 mm to a maximum grain size of 4 mm;
6. sieve the crushed material into three fractions, namely: < 63 µm, 63 µm/2 mm and
2/4 mm;
7. homogenise the 63 µm/2 mm fraction from step 6 with the 63 µm/2 mm from step 4
and the 2/4 mm fraction from step 6 with the 2/4 mm fraction from step 4;
8. weigh and record the weight of the homogenised fractions 63 µm/2 mm and 2/4
mm;
9. for the fraction 63 µm/2 mm: take a representative subsample or the amount
required to prepare a thin slice for the PFM test:
10. for the fractions 2/4 mm, take a representative subsample or the amount required to
prepare two thin slices for the PFM test.
Gravel and other crushed coarse aggregate

For gravel, for example, grain class 4/16 mm or 4/32 mm, sample preparation consists of
the following steps:
2. quarter the dried sample;
3. sieve one quarter of the dried sample into three fractions, namely:
· 4/8, 8/11 and 11/16 mm (for grain class 4/16 mm) or
· 4/8, 8/16 and 16/32 mm (for grain class 4/32 mm);
4. crush the various fractions down to a maximum grain size of 4 mm;
5. combine the crushed material and sieve it into three fractions, namely: < 63 µm,
63µm/2 mm and 2/4 mm;
6. take a representative subsample from the fractions 63 µm/2 mm and 2/4 mm to
prepare thin slices for the PFM test.
17
Explanation
The process of crushing the sample material to be tested (or the various fractions)
must be performed in steps using an adjustable laboratory jaw crusher. The opening
of the jaw crusher must be set to around 3 mm in advance. In that case the material
will be crushed to a grain size of 4 mm or less. This crushing process must be
performed on subsamples from one and the same batch, both for the PFM test and
for the test that uses the UAMBT (Appendix E), which are crushed and
homogenised in the same laboratory using the same procedure.
A6 Sieving of fine fraction < 63 µm

For all aggregates that have to be crushed the fraction smaller than 63 µm must be
removed after crushing; it must not be included in the preparation of the slices.
A7 Performance of the PFM test
A7.1 Production of preparations

The production of the preparations, also called thin sections or thin slices, for the PFM
test and the ‘point-counting’ analysis must be performed in accordance with the method
described below or an equivalent method:
• each of the subsamples to be tested must be transferred to a plastic container;
• these containers must then be placed in a jig and dried once again, after which they
are to be impregnated with fluorescent synthetic resin in vacuum; see Appendix C
for the impregnation of sand samples;
• after hardening of the resin a piece is cut from the centre of each test sample with a
thickness of around 15 mm and a surface area of around 50 mm x 30 mm. The long
edge of the prism is formed by the length of the test sample and the short edge is
formed by part of the cross-section of the test sample (see Figure A1);
• following this a thin slice is produced according to Appendix D;
• after the thin slice is covered by the glass plate the preparation can be tested with
PFM.
Figure A1 Schematic representation of how

the test pieces are taken from the impregnated
subsample in the plastic container for the
preparation of slices for the PFM test. Note:
the plastic container has dimensions of 80 x 30
x 45–50 mm (length x width x height); the
subsample is to be placed along the width. If
these are unavailable a container with
different dimensions can be used, provided
that it is suitable for preparing slices with the
prescribed dimensions.
18
A7.2 Number of preparations

The number of preparations that must be produced from a sample of aggregate to
perform a sufficient reliable analysis depends on the grain size of the sample material as
follows:
sand, grain size 63 µm/1 mm 1 preparation
sand, grain size 63 µm/2 mm 1 preparation
sand, grain size 63 µm/4 mm 3 preparations (1 for 63 µm/2 mm fraction and 2 for
2/4 mm fraction)
gravel, grain class 4/16 or 4/32 3 preparations (after crushing and sieving to the
suitable grain size)
other coarse aggregate 3 preparations (after crushing and sieving to the
suitable grain size, 1 for 63 µm/2 mm fraction and 2
for 2/4 mm fraction)
A7.3 'Point-counting' analysis

The amount of the most important mineralogical components present in the aggregate to
be tested must be determined in a quantitative manner by means of a ‘point-counting’
system that must be linked to the microscope. For this technique the slice of the material
to be tested is first mounted to a special table, which is capable of crosswise movement
and whereby a constant grid is guaranteed. The table is connected to an electronic
counting key. The counting key has a number of channels or keys that can be used to
represent the components in the slice that are to be quantified. When pressing the
counting key the preparation is automatically moved a particular distance along a
predefined course. After each movement the microscopist identifies the object at the
centre of the crosswire of the microscope and presses the key or channel that
corresponds with the object observed. This procedure is repeated until the end of the
course, until eventually the entire preparation has been analysed. The total number of
points counted on the entire preparation and the numbers of the separate components are
registered at the same time. These are expressed in volume percentages. The counting
must be performed at a magnification of 100x.
Explanation
If the crosswire is located exactly on the boundary of a grain and the resin, that
point must be counted as aggregate if the grain is being approached and as resin if
the grain is being exited.
For each slice at least 3000 points must be counted in the grains, spread out over the
entire slice. This number is representative for aggregates with an extremely low content
of ASR-reactive components. As a large number of points is to be counted in the grains,
the grid (the uniform grid) must be selected in such a way that the entire surface of the
preparation is tested. For a regular slice of around 50 mm x 30 mm the following grid
size applies for all grain classes (also for gravel and other coarse aggregate after
crushing and sieving to a suitable grain size): 0.5 mm vertically and 0.5 mm
horizontally.
A8 Results of the PFM test

The results of the PFM test and the ‘point-counting’ analysis for the material or grain
size tested must be reported with an accuracy of one decimal in a table similar to A2a
(sand 63 µm/1 mm), A2b (sand 63 µm/2 mm), A2c (sand 63 µm/4 mm) and A2d (gravel
and other coarse aggregate).
19
Table A2a Results of PFM test of sand, grain class 63 µm/1

Grain Weight fraction Preparation Total Porous Chalcedony Opal Total content of
class number flintstone ASR-reactive
of points components
mm G %m/m Points Points % V/V Points % V/V Points % V/V Points % V/V
63 µm/ 1252.0 100.0 A 3353 16 0.5 12 0.4 0 0.0 28 0.8
Table A2b Results of PFM test of sand, grain class 63 µm/2

of components
points
63 µm/2 1586.5 100.0 A 3462 9 0.3 31 0.9 0 0.0 40 1.2
Table A2c Results of PFM test of sand, grain class 63 µm/4

of components
points
63 µm/2 1864.3 89.5 A 3462 16 0.5 31 0.9 56 1.8 103 3.0
B 1623 50 46 35 131
2/4 218.6 10.5 2.2 3.5 2.5 8.3
C 1585 21 67 48 136
63 µm/4 2082.9 100.0 0.6 1.2 1.9 3.5
Please note: if 2 slices are used for the same fraction, such as for sand 2–4 (Table
B1.8c) or gravel (Table B1.8d), the results must be added first before the percentages
are calculated.
Table A2d Results of PFM test of other aggregate, grain size 4/16 mm or 4/32
of components
points
mm G %m/m Points Points % Points % Points % Points % (V/V)
(V/V) (V/V) (V/V)
63 µm 2 1361.8 81.2 A 3038 4 0.1 31 1.0 0 0.0 35 1.3
B 1541 11 46 5 62
2/4 315.1 18.8 0.3 3.4 0.1 3.8
C 1822 0 67 0 67
63 µm/4 1676.9 100.0 0.2 1.5 0.0 1.7
A9 Assessment of PFM test results

Assessment must be performed using the limiting values stated in 7.2 of the CUR
Recommendation.
A10 Reporting
The test report must refer to this procedure and it must contain the following
information:
• name and address of the research office or institute;
• title and number of the report;
• name and address of the client requesting the test;
• how the sample was taken and delivered;
• date of receipt of sample, sample code and sample amount; geological / lithological
description of the sample, including origin, mining area (coordinates and/or
geographic designation) and petrographic name of the material;
20
• type of aggregate, for example, sand or gravel and grain class, for example, 0/4 mm
or 4/16 mm;
• if the report includes expansion tests: mortar or concrete composition, including
aggregate mixture, use of admixtures, etc.;
• the results obtained, (and if the report (also) includes expansion tests) including
observations on the prisms after completing the test and graphs of the development
of the expansion over time;
• assessment of the results of the tests with regard to potential ASR reactivity;
• comments, for example, relating to the visual inspection;
• conclusions;
• name of the person who tested or reported.
21
Appendix B Procedure for the preparation of blue light-fluorescent epoxy
B1 Introduction
This appendix describes the preparation of blue light-fluorescent epoxy for
impregnating sample material.
B2 Composition
For the preparation of blue light-fluorescent epoxy the following substances and
materials are required:
• blue light-fluorescent dye;
• epoxy resin;
• epoxy hardener;
• materials required: fume cupboard, plastic beaker, wooden spatula, bucket/tray of
cold water.
B3 Safety
If the instructions and safety regulations of the manufacturer are not strictly observed
the handling of epoxy resin may be harmful to a person’s health. Epoxy resin must
therefore only be handled in a fume cupboard.
B4 Procedures
B4.1 Adding dye to the resin

Carefully add one weight percent of dye to the beaker/tray of epoxy resin; also add a
stirring magnet. When insufficient care is taken, the laboratory may be contaminated by
the yellow fluorescent powder; watch out for draughts as well.
Close the glass and firmly shake the contents by hand. Place the glass on a magnetic
stirrer and leave it to stir for at least two days. Firmly shake the glass again by hand
every 12–24 hours. Remove the stirring magnet with a steel pin after stirring and clean
it thoroughly.
The hardener and the colour resin must be stored in a dark place, preferably in a
ventilated location or a fume cupboard.
B4.2 Mixing the two epoxy components

The coloured resin must be mixed with the hardener according to the instructions of the
manufacturer. Place a plastic beaker on a balance and add the required amount of
coloured resin to it first, then add the correct amount of hardener.
Explanation
The final amount of coloured resin in the glass may contain a few lumps of
undissolved fluorescent dye. To prevent false-positive fluorescence this
contaminated amount of resin must not be used for the impregnation of samples.
Start stirring the mixture immediately with a wooden spatula; stir in a circular motion
and in figures of eight in both a horizontal and vertical direction and regularly scrape
the sides and bottom of the beaker. Stir vigorously for two whole minutes. In addition to
other problems, incomplete mixing may result in insufficient hardening.
The mixed epoxy must be used for impregnation within 30 minutes of mixing, see
Appendix C.
The hardening of the epoxy generates heat. Keep any epoxy that has not (yet) been used
in the plastic beaker in cold water to prevent the epoxy from boiling. Make sure that no
water is added to the epoxy. After hardening (the next day) the excess epoxy can be
removed as regular waste.
22
Appendix C Vacuum impregnation of sand samples
C1 Introduction
These instructions describe the vacuum impregnation of sand samples.
C2 Composition
Sand sample: divide and sieve according to the test method; final division into exact
sample amounts by quartering.
Materials required: fume cupboard, drying apparatus (> 95% vacuum), plastic beaker
for impregnation, tray of cold water.
Explanation
A suitable material is polyethylene, provided that it is large enough for the
dimensions of the thin section of 30 mm x 45–50 mm, in other words, with the
following dimensions:
- a diameter of 45–50 mm and a height of >30 mm or
- a diameter of around 30 mm and a height of >50 mm
C3 Safety
If the instructions and safety regulations of the manufacturer are not strictly observed
the handling of epoxy resin may be harmful to a person’s health. Epoxy resin must
therefore only be handled in a fume cupboard.
C4 Procedure
The sand must be dried at 105°C and then cooled down. The sand sample must be
divided into amounts that fit the plastic impregnation beaker.
Homogenise the sample and place it in the plastic impregnation beaker. Add the
recently mixed epoxy to a level whereby all the sand is covered (see Appendix B). Mix
the sand/epoxy mixture with a wooden spatula using both horizontal and vertical
movement, so that a homogeneous mixture is produced and all of the sand is in contact
with the epoxy.
Place the sample in the drying apparatus and extract the air for 15 minutes; regularly
shake the drying apparatus by hand during that time or tap the table, to allow air bubbles
to escape from the epoxy.
Remove the vacuum and place the sample in a tray of cold water to prevent the sample
from heating up / boiling during the hardening of the epoxy. Leave the sample to harden
until the following morning; the plastic impregnation beaker can then be removed easily
by cutting it with a Stanley knife.
23
Appendix D Preparing thin sections
D1 Introduction
These instructions describe the procedure for the preparation of thin sections for the
PFM test.
D2 Materials required
The following materials are required for the preparation of thin sections:
• diamond cutter with water cooling and a fully straight cutting blade;
• suitable diamond cutting (and lapping) equipment with water cooling;
• support slide (with one matted side) for creating the vacuum on the sample when
cutting, grinding (and lapping);
• sample slide with one matted side;
• covering slide;
• UV-hardening glue;
• UV lamp;
• polarisation microscope;
• micrometer (optional);
• soft brush for clearing the sample of cutting and grinding sludge;
• soft brush for cleaning the slide and the samples before glueing;
• acetone and/or alcohol;
• soft paper.
D3 Procedures
The slices are prepared as follows:
• cut a vertical section from the impregnated sample;
• never reduce the amount of surface cut off; this will affect the representative
character of the sample;
• glue the section that was cut off to the support slide using a thin and even layer;
• cut off the sample parallel to the support slide in such a way that a thickness of 5
mm is obtained;
• grind the surface parallel to the support slide with an even smaller diamond so that a
smooth and even surface is formed;
• glue a sample slide to the final surface;
• cut off any excess material;
• grind the surface even further down with smaller diamond to a thickness of 30 µm
(another option is to use 20 µm; each laboratory must, however, always grind down
to the same thickness);
• print the sample code on the finished thin section.
A number of procedures are described in more detail below.
D3.1 Sample identification

It is of essential importance that the unique sample identification number remains linked
to the samples. As a result of this samples must be placed and processed in a logical
order and any residue that is cut off must be kept with the sample during all practical
procedures. Reattach the sample code to the treated sample as quickly as possible.
D3.2 Cutting with a diamond wheel

• Use the thinnest possible diamond wheel.
• Cut with the diamond wheel using an even pressure that is as low as possible and
always use water cooling (for some special applications, for example, for water-
soluble substances, cooling with alcohol is recommended). Normally speaking the
diamond wheel will cut through the material almost without pressure.
• If the cutting is too slow the diamond wheel may be worn-out or it may require
sharpening.
24
• It may be that the wrong type of diamond wheel is mounted to the cutter.
• Diamond wheels require inspection and maintenance.
• Where required, sharpen the wheel by cutting a soft material, for example, a brick.
• Use a magnifying glass to check whether the outer layer is still covered in diamond
grains;
• Replace the diamond wheel if it is worn-out or if any wobbling, vibration or
shocking occurs, as these may damage the sample!
D3.3 Grinding (and lapping)

The grinding procedure largely depends on the equipment used. For best results the
following general points must be taken into account:
• grinding is to be performed with a gradually decreasing grain size;
• grinding with a particular grain size will not be finished until all the scratches from
the previous, coarser treatment (grinding or cutting) are removed;
• prevent grains or particles from breaking free from the surface, especially along the
edges of the sample;
• after each grinding round, check the surface under an angled beam of light for
completely even grinding results in only one plane and without ridges;
• clean the surface with water and a soft brush after each treatment, followed by
spraying it with alcohol and then drying it with soft paper (in one swipe);
• never leave water to dry on the surface; this may cause the UV glue to soften or
come off and tiny crystals from the water may be deposited on it;
• the final quality of the surface must be sufficient for an unambiguous mineralogical
identification.
D3.4 Glueing-on the sample slide and the covering slide

It has been shown that the procedure below results in good and even glueing:
1. Apply a diagonal cross of glue to the sample surface (to prevent air bubbles from
getting trapped).
2. Place the slide at the centre of the sample.
3. Only for the sample slide:
• leave the layer of glue to even out by itself for 5 minutes and recentre the slide;
• clamp the sample and the slide together using minor to moderate pressure; leave
the pressure to even out for 10 minutes.
4. Only for the covering slide:
• expose the sample to UV light for 20 minutes (remove the clamp after the first
10 minutes);
• leave the glue to even out by itself for 5 minutes;
• remove any excess glue from the edges of the covering slide with a pipe cleaner,
recentre the slide;
• place the sample under UV light for around 1 minute;
• carefully remove any excess glue with a Stanley knife and acetone or alcohol;
• place the sample under UV light for around 10 minutes;
• clean all surfaces with acetone or alcohol.
D3.5 Checking the thickness

The thickness of the thin section is checked with the polarisation microscope. The
correct thickness of around 30 µm (optionally 20 µm) is determined based on the white
or light-grey birefringent colour of quartz. For some automatic grinding equipment the
thickness can also be measured with a micrometer, whereby the thickness of the UV-
hardening glue must be taken into account.
D4 Storing impregnated blue light-fluorescent thin sections

The fluorescent power of the thin sections is reduced noticeably if they are exposed to
strong light for a prolonged period of time. This is why thin sections must be stored in a
dark place.
25
Appendix E Procedure for assessing the ASR reactivity of aggregates for concrete
by means of the ultra-accelerated mortar bar expansion test (UAMBT)
E1 Introduction
As a supplement to 7.3.1 of this Recommendation, this appendix describes the ultra-
accelerated mortar bar expansion tests (UAMBT) that are used to determine the
potential reactivity of aggregates for concrete to the alkali-silica reaction. The method is
based on RILEM AAR 2.
The ultra-accelerated mortar bar expansion test, UAMBT, involves the determination of
the change in length of mortar bars that are made of the material to be tested and an alkali-
rich reference Portland cement in a 1M NaOH solution at a temperature of 80°C.
Explanation
On the one hand, the ultra-accelerated mortar bar expansion test is intended for use
in the assessment of the potential ASR reactivity of crushed natural rock, for
example, crushed limestone, granite or quartzite for application in concrete. On the
other hand, this method is used to assess sand, gravel and other aggregates, for
which the petrographic test showed that they contain less than 2 vol.% porous
flintstone + chalcedony + opal, for the presence of other potentially reactive
components, such as unidentified opal and certain types of sandstone and siltstone.
E2 Sampling
Samples must be taken in accordance with A2 in Appendix A.
E3 Equipment and materials

This section provides a list of materials required for the performance of the expansion
tests. The bureau or institute performing the expansion tests must have the following
laboratory equipment at its disposal.
Laboratory: the laboratory in which the test is performed must comply with the
requirements in paragraph 4.1 of NEN-EN 196-1.
Sample divider (splitter): a device for quartering or dividing a sample into

representative subsamples in accordance with the procedure in NEN-EN 932-1.
Oven: a laboratory oven in which containers with mortar bars can be placed and heated
continuously for a period of at least two weeks at a temperature of (80 ± 2)°C.
Jaw crusher: an adjustable laboratory jaw crusher, capable of crushing materials up to a

maximum grain size of around 2 mm.
Sieve: a set of standard sieves in accordance with series A of ISO 3310 with the
following square mesh sizes: 63 mm, 31.5 mm, 16 mm, 8 mm, 4 mm, 2 mm, 1 mm, 500
µm, 250 µm, 125 µm and 63 µm.
Balance: a laboratory balance for weighing the aggregate, cement and demineralised
water. This balance must have a load capacity of at least 5 kg and a measuring
inaccuracy of no more than 0.1%. The balance for weighing the chemicals must have a
load capacity of at least 50 g and a measuring inaccuracy of no more than 0.01%.
Mixer: a laboratory mixer that complies with the requirements in 4.4 of NEN-EN 196-1.
Tamper: a tamper for compacting the mortar. The tamper must be made of a non-
absorbent, rigid and non-brittle material. The tamper base is flat must have dimensions
26
of 13 x 25 ± 0.5. The tamper must a length of between 230 and 300 mm. Make sure that
the entire width of the tamper fits into the mould.
Moulds: the moulds must be large enough to prepare 3 test pieces with a length of 285.0
± 1.0 mm, a width of 25.0 ± 0.2 mm and a height of 25.0 ± 0.2 mm. Tapped holes must
be present on both ends of the mould for attaching the stainless-steel measuring studs.
Measuring studs: the measuring studs must have a length of 20 ± 0.5 mm and a
diameter of 6 mm ± 0.1 mm. Make sure that the measuring studs are not ‘jammed’ in
the tapped holes. The measuring studs must be made of stainless steel.
Containers: the containers for storing the test pieces and the 1M NaOH solution must
be able to withstand the high temperature (80°C) and the high alkalinity of the solution
for a prolonged period of time. The containers must have a sufficient volume for storing
at least two mortar bars with dimensions of 285 mm x 25 mm x 25 mm. The level of the
liquid must be at least 25 mm above the mortar bars. The bars must be separated at least
10 mm from each other and the wall. The bars must be placed on supports, so that they
remain approx. 10 mm above the bottom of the container and do not come into contact
with the bottom. All containers must be fitted with airtight lids and must be made of a
material that does not react with the contents and does not distort inconveniently when
it is heated to 80°C. The volume of the NaOH solution in the container must be 4 ± 0.5
times the volume of the mortar bars.
Flow table and truncated conical mould: a flow table with accessories and a conical
mould that meet the requirements stated in NEN-EN 1015-3 (1999) for determining the
consistence of the mortar.
Measuring equipment: the inaccuracy of the measuring equipment must not exceed ±
0.001 mm and its range must be at least 5 mm, with ends that fit onto the measuring
studs.
Reference bar: the reference bar must have a length that falls within the range of the
measuring equipment. The reference bar must be made of a Ni/Fe or a Ni/Co/Fe alloy,
such as Invar (36% Ni) or Nilvar, with a low thermal expansion coefficient
(< 2.0 10-6/K). The ends of the reference bar must have the same shape as the measuring
studs that are attached to the test pieces. The reference bar must always be stored at 20 ±
2°C.
Storage area: a damp room with a temperature of 20 ± 1°C and a relative humidity of at
least 90% in accordance with NEN-EN 196-1.
E4 Reagents and cement

Water: demineralised water.
Sodium hydroxide solution: a sufficient quantity of a 1 ± 0.01 M NaOH solution of at

least ‘technical grade’ (40 grams of NaOH dissolved in 900 ml of demineralised water,
cooled down and filled up to 1 litre). Once an NaOH solution has been used for a test it
may not be used again for a following test. This means that a new NaOH solution must
be prepared for each test.
Cement: Portland cement CEM I 52.5 R with an Na2Oe of 1.2 ± 0.05% (m/m), to be
obtained by adding NaOH. The specific surface area of the Portland cement, determined
in accordance with NEN-EN 196-6 and expressed in the Blaine value, must be at least
450 m2/kg.
27
Explanation
In RILEM AAR 2 a choice is given between admixing NaOH or using a reference
cement, for example, from NORCEM. The alkali content of the NORCEM cement
has appeared to differ between various laboratories. This is why the controlled
addition of NaOH was chosen. In this case RILAM AAR 2 states a minimum
Na2Oe of 1.0% (m/m). The NORCEM cement has an average Na2Oe of approx.
1.2% (m/m). This is why an Na2Oe of 1.2 ± 0.05% (m/m) was chosen here.
E5 Sample quantity and preparation

For information relating to the total quantity of sample material to be tested that must be
delivered for the UAMBT, please refer to A2 in Appendix A. The samples must be
prepared as follows:
Sand
A sand sample with grain classes 0/1, 0/2 or 0/4 mm must be tested entirely without
crushing.
Explanation
For sand in grain class 0/4 the fraction larger than 4 mm must be crushed using a jaw crusher to a grain size
of less than 4 mm and it must be homogenised with the fraction smaller than 4 mm before the sample is
quartered and a subsample is taken for testing.
Crushed fine aggregate, grain class 0/4

For a sample of crushed fine aggregate (grain class 63 µm/4 mm), the material must be
divided into fractions in accordance with the classification in Table E1 for the
preparation of mortar bars after sieving.
Table E1 Prescribed grain classification for crushed fine aggregate, gravel and
crushed aggregate for the preparation of mortar bars
Classification (mesh size) Content % (m/m)
Passes Remains on top
4 mm 2 mm 10
2 mm 1 mm 25
1 mm 500 µm 25
500 µm 250 µm 25
250 µm 125 µm 15
Gravel and other crushed coarse aggregate

For a sample of gravel and other crushed coarse aggregate the material must be prepared
as follows:
• dry the total amount of material to be tested at 105°C until its mass is constant;
• quarter the total quantity of dried material to be tested;
• sieve one quarter of the dried material into three fractions, namely:
• 4/8, 8/11 and 11/16 mm (for grain class 4/16 mm) or
• 4/8, 8/16 and 16/32 mm (for grain class 4/32 mm);
• crush the various fractions to maximum grain size of 4 mm;
• recombine the crushed material;
• sieve the dried and crushed material, combine the sample material in accordance
with the classification in Table E1 and take the quantity required to prepare mortar
bars for the expansion test. For information about the process of crushing the sample
material, please refer to A5 (Appendix A). Please note that, in this case, the jaw
crusher must be set to a maximum grain size of 4 mm.
28
Coarse and fine

For a coarse and fine sample (e.g. 0–32) the sample must be divided into a subsample
63 µm – 4 mm and a subsample 4 – D. Both of these subsamples must be analysed as
separate samples, fine and coarse.
E6 Composition, dimensions and number of test pieces

The mortar must be prepared as described in NEN-EN 196-1. The mortar must be
composed of the material to be tested and Portland cement that meets the requirements
set in E4. The aggregate to be tested must be prepared in advance as described in these
instructions. At least 6 test pieces from 2 batches must be prepared with the material,
whereby at least 2 from each batch are used in the test.
Explanation
The final results of the test will only be valid if the average of 4 prisms can be
calculated, 2 from each batch. By preparing 3 prisms from each batch there will be
1 spare prism in case one of the prisms breaks during demoulding.
E7 Preparation of test pieces

The mould for the test pieces must be covered in a demoulding agent that does not
affect the hardening time and does not leave any residue, which may prevent the
penetration of water into the mortar.
The mortar must be mixed in accordance with the procedure of NEN-EN 196-1 for the
preparation of test pieces for the compression strength test. The mixture composition to
be used is given in Table E2. The water-cement ratio in this table relates to free
moisture. The amount of water to be added must therefore be corrected for the water
absorption of the (crushed) aggregate and the amount of the NaOH solution to be added.
One alternative is using surface-dry saturated aggregate, but this does require a
correction for the amount of NaOH to be added. The water absorption must be
determined according to NEN-EN 1097-6 (determination of absorption).
Table E2 Mix composition for each batch of mortar

Mass quantity of aggregate (grams) 1350
Mass quantity of cement (grams) 600
Aggregate-cement ratio (m:m) 2.25 : 1
Water-cement ratio 0.47
The flow value must be measured according to NEN-EN 1015-3 and must lie between
205 mm and 220 mm. Use a plasticiser where required. The mortar that is used for
determining the flow value must no longer be used for the preparation of mortar bars.
The compaction of the mortar in the mould must start within 3 minutes of preparing the
mortar. The mould must be filled with two more or less equal layers of mortar. Each
layer must be compacted separately with the tamper. The first layer of mortar must be
spread out over the bottom of the mould and compacted to obtain a homogeneous
sample. The space below the measuring studs must be filled up completely with mortar
before the second layer of mortar is applied. The second layer of mortar must be applied
excessively and compacted with the tamper. Make sure that the measuring studs are not
pushed out of the tapped holes during compaction. Any excess mortar must be removed
with the palette knife and the finish on top must be smooth and straight.
The bars must be covered immediately after preparing them, as described in NEN-EN
196-1 : 1995. (Cover with a glass sheet with a minimum thickness of 6 mm. The
dimensions of the sheet must be such that it protrudes at least 20 mm from the bars on
all sides. A sheet of steel or another impermeable and non-absorbent material may also
be used.)
29
E8 Storage and measuring of change in length

After preparation the test pieces must be stored in the mould and conditioned in a
climate chamber at 20°C and 90% R.H. for 24 ± 2 hours, after which they are to be
demoulded. Following this the initial length, Li, of each test piece is measured. The
initial length is the length between the measuring studs (see Figure E1). To obtain this,
measure the distance between the measuring studs (LT, see the figure below) using a
calliper gauge (up to 0.1 mm). Correct this length for the length of the measuring studs
(with an accuracy of 0.1 mm) to obtain the initial length (Li).
Next the density must be measured by weighing above and under water. The density
must be corrected for the embedded measuring studs.
LT
L1 Li L2
Li = LT – (L1+L2)
Figure E1 Measurement of Li. The measuring studs are shown in black. LT is the total
length of the bar and measuring studs combined. L1 and L2 are the lengths
of the measuring studs. Li is the length between the measuring studs
The bars must be stored in the container with demineralised water of 20 ± 2°C. The
container with the bars must then be placed in an oven at 80 ± 2°C for 24 ± 2 hours.
After this Lo must be measured.
Remove the container from the oven for this. Remove the bars from the container one
by one and perform the zero measurement Lo within 15 seconds using the micrometer
and reference bar with an accuracy of 0.001 mm (see explanation below). This
measurement must be performed vertically. Mark the measurement location, so that
each following measurement is performed in the same place. If it has not been proven
that the measurement is not affected by the radiant heat of the bars, the set-up must be
protected from this radiant heat.
After each measurement of L0 check the length of the reference bar with the
micrometer. The micrometer must then again show a value that differs no more than
± 0.001 mm from the value measured before the L0 measurement. Repeat the
measurement if this is not the case.
Immediately return the bars to the container after measuring. Remove the containers
from the oven one by one if several containers are being used.
The test pieces must then be stored in a 1M NaOH solution of 80 ± 2°C in a container in
an oven at 80 ± 2°C. The volume of the NaOH solution in the container must be 4 ± 0.5
times the volume of the mortar bars.
The length Ln must be measured periodically in a similar fashion to the measurement of

L0 for a period of 14 days. In this case at least three measurements must be performed
between the first measurement and the measurement after 14 days. All measurements
must be performed at approximately the same time. The measurement after 14 days
must be performed twice by two different laboratory assistants. Each laboratory
assistant must determine the expansion of the prisms separately.
30
Explanation
The L0 and Ln measurements are not absolute measurements of the length; they are
length measurements relative to the reference bar. The difference in length between
the reference bar and the prism is measured and not the actual length of the prism.
In the formula for the calculation of the expansion L0 and Ln are subtracted (see
E9). The result of this is the increase or decrease in the length of the prism in
absolute terms (in mm). By dividing this value by Li (the absolute length of the
prism between the measuring studs) the relative expansion is obtained. The L0
measurement is performed before exposure to the NaOH solution, but after heating
to 80°C. This is done to measure the expansion as a result of swelling due to ASR
(induced by the continuous supply of water and alkalis, and the high temperature),
but corrected for the expansion of the prism and the measuring studs as a result of
the heating to 80°C.
E9 Calculation of expansion
The linear expansion of each test piece must be determined periodically by measuring
the difference between the length corresponding with that period, Ln, and the zero
measurement, L0. The accuracy of this measurement must be at least 0.001 mm. The
expansion is calculated according to the following formula:
ε = 100 [ (Ln – Lo) / Li ]
in which:
ε is the expansion in % rounded-off to 0.001%
Ln is the length after n days in a 1M NaOH solution at 80°C
Lo is the length after 1 day in demineralised water at 80°C (zero measurement)
Li is the initial length between the measuring studs of the mortar bars at 20°C
The difference in expansion between the two double measurements after 14 days must
not be more than 0.004% for each prism.
Calculate the expansion after 14 days for both double measurements as the average
expansion of at least four test pieces from two batches (2 per batch), rounded off to
0.001% (0.01‰).
The average of the double measurements rounded off to 0.01% is the final result of the
test.
E10 Verification of UAMBT results

The average calculated in E9 must be verified on the basis of the limiting values stated
in 7.3.1 of this CUR Recommendation.
E11 Petrographic test of mortar bars

For mortar bars that show more expansion than the maximum value allowed in 7.3.1 of
the CUR Recommendation, it is recommended to perform an additional petrographic
test on the mortar bars that showed the largest expansion to identify the components that
are involved in the reaction.
For cases in which the individual mortar bars of a single mixture mutually show greatly
differing expansion behaviour, it is also recommended to (try and) identify the cause of
this by means of PFM.
E12 Reporting
Reporting must be done in accordance with A10 (Appendix A).
31
Appendix F Procedure for assessing the ASR reactivity of aggregates for concrete
and limestone powder by means of the concrete prism expansion test (CPT)
F1 Introduction
This appendix describes the procedure of the concrete prism expansion test (CPT) as a
test method for determining the potential reactivity for the alkali-silica reaction of
aggregates for concrete and limestone powder.
In view of the duration of the test it is important to guarantee that the concrete prism
expansion test is representative for the ASR reactivity of the aggregate that is applied
after a year. This guarantee does not form part of this procedure, but it must be
confirmed by proving with a petrographic test that the mineralogical and/or lithographic
composition of the aggregate or limestone powder to be applied is identical to that of
the material tested. This test must be performed according to the procedure in Appendix
A and the supplement in paragraph 5.5 for limestone powder.
F2 Purpose and principle

The purpose of the concrete prism expansion test is to determine the reactivity to ASR
of aggregates for concrete. The method described here is based on RILEM AAR 3 and
involves the preparation of concrete prisms using the aggregate (mixtures) to be tested
and any limestone powder, which are then stored in a conditioned area for a period of
12 months (or more) to promote ASR. The length of the prisms is determined
periodically to establish whether expansion is occurring.
To determine the ASR-reactivity in this limited period of time the ASR is accelerated.
To achieve this the prisms are prepared with a (relatively) high cement content and a
high-alkali cement, as a result of which the alkali content of the concrete is 5.5 kg/m3
(see E4 for the cement requirements). To achieve this alkali content NaOH can be added
to the mixing water. To determine the effects of mixing (specific aggregate
combinations) or maximum expansion values, aggregates can be tested together or
separately, or in combination with a non-ASR-reactive (inert) material. Limestone
powder is always assessed in combination with the aggregate mixture to be applied.
F3 Equipment and materials

This section provides a list of materials required for the performance of the concrete
prism expansion test. The bureau or institute performing the expansion tests must have
the following laboratory equipment at its disposal.
Laboratory: the laboratory in which the test is performed must comply with the
requirements in § 4.1 of NEN-EN 196-1.
Mixing room: the concrete prisms must be prepared in a lab where sufficient equipment
is present for the mixing, pouring and compaction of concrete. The temperature must be
20 ± 2°C and the relative humidity must be > 65 ± 5%.
Steel moulds: the steel moulds must be large enough to prepare test pieces with a length
of 250 ± 55 mm, a width of 75 ± 5 mm and a height of 75 ± 5 mm, and they must
comply with the requirements set in § 4.5 of NEN-EN 196-1 in so far as these apply.
If the aggregate contains grains with a diameter > 20 mm the moulds must have a length
of 400 mm, a width of 100 mm and a height of 100 mm in accordance with ISO 1920.
Tapped holes must be present on both ends of the mould for attaching the stainless-steel
measuring studs.
Measuring studs: the measuring studs must have a length of 20 ± 0.5 mm and a
diameter of 6 mm ± 0.1 mm. Make sure that the measuring studs are not ‘jammed’ in
the tapped holes.
32
Measuring equipment: the length measurement must be performed vertically with a

calibrated gauge. The measuring equipment must have a measuring accuracy of more
than 0.002 mm; the scatter within a series of measurements must not be more than 0.005
mm.
Reference bar: the reference bar must have a length that falls within the range of the
measuring equipment. The reference bar must be made of a Ni/Fe or a Ni/Co/Fe alloy,
such as Invar (36% Ni) or Nilvar, with a low thermal expansion coefficient
(< 2.0 10-6/K). The ends of the reference bar must have the same shape as the measuring
studs that are attached to the test pieces. The reference bar must always be stored at 20 ±
2°C.
Storage materials: the prisms must be wrapped-up as follows:

1. in a damp, woven, cotton cloth of 240 ± 30 g m-2 with a width that is at least 10 mm
more than the length of the prisms;
2. in 500-gauge polyethylene film, 180 mm wide;
3. in a 500-gauge polyethylene bag, approx. 500 x 250 mm.
Each of the individual prisms must be stored in its own container. A layer of water must
be present at the bottom of the containers. A rack is to be placed in it, on which the
wrapped-up prisms are to be placed.
Storage area: The containers with the concrete prisms must be stored in an area with a
temperature of 20 ± 2°C or 38 ± 2°C.
F4 Reagents, cement and aggregate

Sodium hydroxide: a sodium hydroxide solution that is at least ‘technical grade’.
Cement: CEM I 52.5 R with an Na2Oe of 1.25 ± 0.05% (m/m), to be obtained by adding
Na(OH).
Aggregate: the aggregates to be tested or combinations of these may consist of:

• combinations of fine and coarse aggregate for testing the ASR-reactivity of the
overall aggregate mixture;
• fine aggregate with inert coarse aggregate for testing the ASR-reactivity of the fine
aggregate;
• coarse aggregate with inert fine aggregate for testing the ASR-reactivity of the
coarse aggregate.
The aggregate must have the following composition (based on dry weight):
• grain class 0/4 : 30% (m/m)
• grain class 4/11 : 30% (m/m)
• grain class 11/16 or 11/22 : 40% (m/m)
Deviations are allowed from the above classification in the following cases:
1. If the concrete mortar is not sufficiently processable the 70/30 ratio of coarse/fine
aggregate may be changed from % (m/m) to % (V/V), provided that the maximum
amount of coarse aggregate is used whereby full compaction is achieved.
2. If the ASR reactivity of the overall aggregate mixture has to be determined, this
must be performed with the ratio and class that will actually be applied.
3. If the coarse aggregate contains grains with a diameter > 20 mm, the test pieces must
have greater dimensions (see F3).
33
Explanation
Liquid ASR gel hardens under the influence of Ca ions, which makes it deleterious.
The ASR reactivity of aggregates in combination with inert aggregate is often
tested with crushed limestone. It is very well possible that extra Ca ions become
available as a result of this, which increases possible expansion. It is therefore
recommended to choose a different inert aggregate.
F5 Sampling
Where relevant, samples must be taken in accordance with A2 (Appendix A).
F6 Composition and preparation of test pieces

Figure 1 on page 6 of this CUR Recommendation shows that the CPT can be used in
several different situations. This means that the CPT is reached via different routes on
the flow chart. The composition to be used for the CPT depends on how the flow chart
is completed. This is determined by the nature of the aggregates and the nature of any
limestone powder to be applied. The following tables, F1 and F2, show the possible
combinations and the corresponding mixture compositions. The text underneath the
diagram explains the description of the mixtures to be used.
Table F1 CPT mixture composition to be used if the concrete does not contain any
limestone powder
One or more of the components ASR-reactive

acc. to par. 7.2 (PFM) Composition A
Aggregate mixture
and Aggregate mixture

service life ≤ 50 years
None of the components ASR-reactive acc. to
par. 7.2 (PFM)
Composition A
and
Separate aggregates allowed
one or more of the components ASR-reactive
acc. to par. 7.3.1 (UAMBT).
Table F2 CPT mixture composition to be used if the concrete contains limestone

powder
Limestone powder Limestone powder

non-ASR-reactive ASR-reactive acc. to
acc. to par. 5.5 par. 5.5
One or more of the components ASR-
Composition C Composition C
reactive acc. to par. 7.2 (PFM)
Aggregate mixture Aggregate mixture
and
service life ≤ 50 years
None of the components ASR-reactive
Aggregate mixture
acc. to par. 7.2 (PFM) Composition A

Composition C
and Separate aggregates
Aggregate mixture
one or more of the components ASR- allowed
reactive acc. to par. 7.3.1 (UAMBT).
None of the components ASR-reactive
acc. to par. 7.2 (PFM)
Composition C
and N/A
Aggregate mixture
none of the components ASR-reactive
acc. to par. 7.3.1 (UAMBT).
34
Composition A – aggregate mixture

The composition to be used is that of mixture A in Table F3. The aggregate to be used
must be the aggregate that will actually be applied. In this case the ratio in Table F3
must not be used, but the ratio and classification that will actually be applied in practice.
Composition A – separate aggregates allowed

The composition to be used is that of mixture A in Table F3. The composition of the
aggregate mixture must match the ratio of mixture A in Table F3. The aggregates in the
aggregate mixture may be tested separately. When testing fine aggregate inert coarse
aggregate must be used. When testing coarse aggregate inert fine aggregate must be
used.
Composition C - aggregate mixture

The composition to be used is that of mixture C in Table F3. The aggregate to be used
must be the aggregate that will actually be applied. In this case the ratio in Table F3
must not be used, but the ratio and classification that will actually be applied in practice.
Table F3 Concrete composition for concrete prism expansion test (CPT)

1) 2)
Mixture A C
3 3
% (V/V) kg/m % (V/V) kg/m
Cement 14 440 14 440
Water 20 200 20 200
Limestone powder 0 0 9 250
Coarse aggregate 46 1247 40 1085
Fine aggregate 20 535 17 455
Water-cement ratio 0.45 0.45
Na2Oe required 5.5 5.5
1)
If for mixture A a separate aggregate is assessed, the ratio between coarse and fine as stated
in the table must be used. If the aggregate mixture is to be assessed, this must be done with the
ratio and classification that will actually be applied. The ratio between fine and coarse aggregate
in the table will then only serve as an example
1)
For mixture C the aggregates that will actually be applied are always used, with the ratio and
classification that will actually be applied. The ratio between fine and coarse aggregate only
serves as an example
To obtain the alkali content required for the concrete, it may be necessary to add NaOH
to mixture A or C in the mixing water before mixing to ensure that the alkali content of
the binder is 1.25 ± 0.05% (m/m) Na2Oe.
Explanation
The amount of NaOH to be added depends on the alkali content of the cement. For
1.00% (m/m) Na2Oe in cement, the cement in concrete with a cement content of 440
kg/m3 adds 4.40 kg Na2Oe to the concrete. The requirement for the cement
contribution is 5.50 kg/m3 Na2Oe.
This means that 5.5 – 4.4 = 1.1 kg/m3 Na2Oe must be added to the mixing water.
The conversion factor for Na2Oe to NaOH is 1.291. The amount of NaOH to be
added is therefore 1.1 x 1.291 = 1.420 kg/m3.
If the mixture is insufficiently processable (slump < 80 mm) a plasticiser must be added
(but not in combination with an air-entraining agent). The amount of NaOH to be added
to the mixture must in this case be corrected for the alkali content of the plasticiser.
Three prisms must be poured of each mixture. The concrete must be compacted
mechanically in the moulds in two layers of equal thickness.
After pouring the moulds must be stored for 24 ± 0.5 hours at 20 ± 2°C and > 90% R.H.
under a damp cover. After demoulding the prisms must be weighed with a accuracy of 5
grams.
35
Explanation
The density is measured to verify the quality of the prisms (compaction, etc.).
F7 Storage and measuring of change in length

After demoulding the prisms must be wrapped-up in:
• cotton cloth, saturated with demineralised water;
• polyethylene film;
• a polyethylene bag;
all of these must meet the requirements stated in F3.
The cotton cloth is to be wrapped around the four longer edges of the prisms in two
layers. Then the polyethylene film must be applied, whereby the ends of the prisms
must not be wrapped up. The film must be smoothed out and fastened with clamping
strips. The wrapped-up prisms must then be placed in the polyethylene bag, after which
5 ml of demineralised water must be poured over the top end of the prism. Afterwards
the bags must be sealed and the test pieces must be placed vertically1 on a rack in the
storage container with a layer of demineralised water of at least 20 mm. The space
between the bottom of the prism wrapped up this way and the surface of the water must
not exceed 5 mm.
The test pieces are stored at 20 ± 2°C for the first 7 days. The prisms must then be
stored at 38 ± 2°C.
Measurements are to take place at 20 ± 2°C and they must be performed 24 hours after
demoulding and then 1, 2, 4, 13, 26 and 52 weeks after pouring. The measurement after
52 weeks must be performed twice by two different laboratory assistants. Each
laboratory assistant must determine the expansion of the three prisms separately.
24 hours before performing the measurements after 2, 4, 13, 26 and 52 weeks the
containers with the prisms must therefore be transferred to the storage room with a
temperature of 20 ± 2°C to condition the prisms (in the containers). After the
measurement the containers are to be stored at 38 ± 2°C again.
24 hours after demoulding the initial length, Li, of the prisms must be determined first
with a steel ruler with an accuracy of 1 mm. Afterwards the zero measurement, L0, for
the change in length is performed with the gauge. The measurements must be performed
as follows:
1. remove the prism from the bag, but leave the other wrapping intact;
2. clean the measuring studs;
3. determine the length of the prism and the reference bar with an accuracy of 1 mm;
4. return the prism to the bag;
5. pour 5 ml of demineralised water over the prism and close the bag;
6. return the bag to the container and check whether enough (> 20 mm) demineralised
water is present at the bottom of the container; fill it up where required.
F8 Calculation of expansion
The linear expansion of each test piece must be determined periodically by measuring
the difference between the length corresponding with that period, Lt, and the zero
measurement, L0. The expansion percentage is calculated according to the following
formula:
ε = 100 [ (Lt - Lo) / Li ]
1
To prevent damage to the measuring equipment, the test pieces may be stored horizontally if it is
sufficiently guaranteed that deformation is not hampered.
36
in which:
ε is the expansion in %, rounded-off to 0.001%
Lt is the length after t weeks
Lo is the length after 24 hours (zero measurement)
Li is the initial length of the prisms
The difference in expansion between the two double measurements after 52 weeks must
not be more than 0.004% for each prism.
The average expansion of the 3 prisms of a single mixture must be calculated to 0.005%
for both measurements.
The average of the double measurements rounded-off to 0.01% is the final result of the
test.
F9 Assessment of prisms
After finishing the test the prisms must be checked for crack-formation, release of gel,
deformation and other phenomena.
For concrete prisms that show more expansion than the maximum value allowed in
7.3.2 of this CUR Recommendation, it is recommended to perform an additional
petrographic test on the prisms to identify the components that are involved in the
reaction and to establish whether the expansion is actually caused by ASR.
In cases whereby the individual prisms exhibit mutually different expansion behaviour
it is also recommended to (try and) identify the cause of this by means of PFM.
F10 Assessment of concrete prism expansion test results

The average calculated in F8 must be assessed on the basis of the limiting values stated
in 7.3.2 of this CUR Recommendation.
F11 Reporting
Reporting must be done in accordance with A10 (Appendix A).
37
Appendix G Notes on paragraph 5.3 and several example calculations
The penetration of alkalis in concrete from outside partially depends on the density of
that concrete. For Portland cement concrete the penetration will be higher than for blast
furnace slag cement concrete and for concrete based on Portland fly-ash cement, albeit
after a number of years. For concrete based on these cement types penetration will
generally be minimal [see CUR report 2003-1]. However, in environments where alkalis
can be supplied from the outside (for example, in a sea-water environment or when
applying de-icing salts) it cannot be completely ruled out that this will occur in rare
cases. This may allow the alkali content of the concrete to rise above the critical limit of
3.0 kg/m3 Na2Oe.
Both Dutch practice and experiments, among others, in Canada and Germany [see CUR
report 2003-1] have shown that replacing part of the Portland clinker in the cement with
either blast-furnace slag or fly ash greatly affects the amount of alkali available for
ASR. The study performed for CUR VC 62 clearly showed that alkalis are bound in the
hydration edges around the slag particles. In other words: the effective alkali content for
ASR in concrete with blast-furnace or Portland fly-ash cement is lower than the overall
alkali content of that concrete. This basic assumption relating to the effective alkali
content was also applied in CUR Recommendation 38 and it is essential for the way in
which CUR VC 62 established the limits for the alkali content of cement (see below).
New experiments, particularly in Canada [see CUR report 2003-1], have underpinned
this further, also relating to use in combination with aggregates that are known to be
ASR-reactive. In English-speaking countries people now often use binders, whereby the
blast-furnace slag or fly ash is mixed with Portland cement, whilst in Dutch building
practice and that of the countries around us factory-produced blast-furnace and Portland
fly-ash cement is mainly used. This is why it is preferable to convert the requirements
for the effective alkali content of concrete with Portland cement, blast-furnace slag
and/or fly ash into limits for the overall alkali content of the cement. The starting point
must be a certain neutralisation of alkalis by blast-furnace slag and fly ash, and a
realistic value for the alkali content of the latter (for the Netherlands).
Table G1 Maximum allowable alkali content (Na2Oe in % (m/m)) of factory-produced

cement according to this CUR Recommendation
1) 3
Cement type Contribution of other constituents (kg/m )
Na2Oe ≤ 0.6 0.6 < Na2Oe ≤ 1.2 1.2 < Na2Oe ≤ 1.6
CEM II/B-V
with ≥ 25% (m/m) fly ash 1.1 0.9 0.8
with 1 ≤ Na2Oe ≤ 2% (m/m)
CEM II/B-V
with ≥ 25% (m/m) fly ash 1.3 1.1 1.0
with 2 < Na2Oe ≤ 3% (m/m)
CEM II/B-V
with ≥ 30% (m/m) fly ash 1.6 1.5 1.4
with 3 < Na2Oe ≤ 4.5% (m/m)
CEM III/A with ≥ 50% (m/m) slag 1.1 0.9 0.8
CEM III/B 1.5 1.3 1.2
1)
In this table “other constituents” is understood to include all constituents of the concrete, except
for cement and fly ash.
38
Explanation
The table lists the maximum allowable alkali content of the cement. This content
depends on the cement type (2nd to 6th row of the table) and the contributions of
alkalis in the other constituents (2nd to 4th column of the table). Additional
requirements have been set for cement type CEM II/B-V with regard to the fly ash
content and the alkali content of the fly ash (rows 2 to 4). The presentation of this
table is different from Table 1 in chapter 5. The content of the tables, however, is
the same. Both tables can be used for assessing the maximum alkali content of the
cement
Example:
A CEM II/B-V cement with 26% (m/m) fly ash and an alkali content of the fly ash of
2.1% (m/m) Na2Oe is used. The alkali contribution of the other constituents of the
concrete is 0.82 kg/m3. The cement corresponds with the 3rd row of the table, the alkali
contribution of the other constituents corresponds with the 3rd column. The intersection
of these two reflects the maximum allowable alkali content of the cement. In this
example 1.1% (m/m) Na2Oe
Please note that for CEM II/B-V three limiting values are given, depending on the alkali
content of the fly ash. CUR VC 62 considered it appropriate to provide this extra option,
but the concrete producer will only be able to use this if the producer of the cement
indicates with which specification the fly ash in that cement complies, in addition to the
alkali content of the overall cement.
The requirements for the alkali content of the various cement types as stated in
paragraph 5.3 of this CUR Recommendation (Tables 1 and 2) apply to cement that
meets NEN-EN 197-1 and NEN-EN 197-4. While converting the limits for alkali
content for the individual constituents to alkali content with regard to cement the
following starting studs and/or assumptions were used:
• The cement content is assumed to be 450 kg/m3.
• The Na2Oe content of blast-furnace slag is at least 0.6% (m/m).
• The contribution of alkalis from other constituents in the concrete is no more than
0.6 or 1.2 or 1.6 kg/m3. For a higher contribution the limit for the alkali content of
the cement must be calculated.
• The neutralisation of alkalis by slag is 1.0 kg/m3 at a minimum of 50% (m/m) slag
and 2.0 kg/m3 at a minimum of 65% (m/m) slag.
• The Na2Oe of fly ash is at least 1.0% (m/m).
• The neutralisation of alkalis by fly ash is 0.8 kg/m3 for CEM II/B-V with at least
25% (m/m) fly ash.
• The neutralisation of alkalis by fly ash is 0.4 kg/m3 for CEM I with at least 25%
(m/m) fly ash (percentage calculated using the share of CEM I and fly ash).
• The neutralisation of alkalis by fly ash is 0.5 kg/m3 for CEM I with at least 30%
(m/m) fly ash (percentage calculated using the share of CEM I and fly ash).
• Maximum allowable effective Na2Oe of concrete is 3.0 kg/m3.
39
Based on this data the alkali content with regard to the cement can be calculated from:
Na2OeCement = (Na2OeConcrete - Na2OeOther + Na2OeN + Na2OeSCM) / 450 * 100%
or written differently:
Na2OeCement x 450/100 + Na2OeOther – Na2OeN – Na2OeSCM ≤ 3 kg/m3
in which:
Na2OeConcrete the maximum allowable alkali content of the concrete in kg/m3,
namely 3 kg/m3
Na2OeCement the maximum allowable alkali content of the cement in % (m/m)
Na2OeN the neutralisation by slag or fly ash in kg/m3
Na2OeOther the contribution of other constituents in the concrete in kg/m3, except
for fly ash
Na2OeSCM the contribution of alkalis by slag or fly ash in the cement in kg/m3
The calculation is based on the fact that the alkalis which are important for ASR are
only the alkalis that are available via pore water and, for cement, those from the
Portland clinker. The above formula also shows that:
• the alkali content of slag and fly ash is not included, and
• a neutralising effect is ascribed to slag and fly ash, as a result of which a smaller
amount of alkalis is available for reaction.
The starting point of 450 kg of cement per m3 of concrete is random. However, in
almost every case the cement content of concrete in accordance with NEN-EN 206-1
will be lower and therefore also the effective alkali content of the concrete: the
assumption of 450 kg/m3 of cement therefore provides a safe limiting value.
Calculated limits according to the above formula are listed in table G2. An example of
this calculation is the following:
Table G2 The limits to the alkali content of the cement bases on the experiments of
[CUR-rapport 2003-1] and assumptions mentioned in the text
Cement type Slag / Alkali Neutralisation Alkali content of cement

fly ash content contribution by slag / % (m/m)] for a contribution by
of slag / fly fly ash other constituents of
3
ash (kg/m )
3 3 3
% m/m kg/m kg/m kg/m ≤ 0.6 ≤ 1.2 ≤ 1.6
CEM II/B-V with Na2Oe of fly ash 25 113 1.13 0.8 1.0 0.8 0.7
1% (m/m)
2% (m/m)
3% (m/m)
CEM III/A 50 225 1.35 1.0 1.1 0.9 0.8
CEM III/B 65 293 1.76 2.0 1.4 1.2 1.15
CEM I with fly ash 25 112 0 0.4 0.8 0.65 0.53
CEM I with fly ash 30 135 0 0.5 0.9 0.73 0.60
For concrete based on blast-furnace cement, CEM III/B with at least 66% (m/m) slag,
the neutralisation of alkalis in the concrete by the slag is Na2OeN = 2.0 kg/m3 and the
alkali contribution of the slag itself is Na2OeSCM = alkali content of slag * slag content *
amount of cement kg/m3 = (0.6/100) * (66/100) * 450 = 1.78 kg/m3.
40
Based on the maximum allowable effective alkali content of concrete of 3.0 kg/m3 and a
fixed cement content of 450 kg/m3 the maximum allowable alkali content of the cement
is calculated as follows:
Na2OeCement = [(Na2OeConcrete – Na2OeOther + Na2OeN + Na2OeSCM) / 450] * 100%
after completing:
Na2OeCement = [(3.0 – 0.6 + 2.0 + 1.78) / 450] * 100 = 1.4 % (m/m)
Please note that the limiting values calculated in this way are still not the same as those
used in this CUR Recommendation (Tables 1 and 2).
Table G2. Calculated limits for the alkali content of cement on the basis of the
experiments by [see CUR report 2003-1] and the assumptions stated in the text.
By taking the limiting values calculated in Table G2 as a starting point, CUR VC 62

arrived at the limiting values stated in § 5.3 of this CUR Recommendation (Tables 1
and 2). Differences are partially due to rounding-off. For CEM III/B the difference
between the limit calculated in Table G2 and the final limiting value is slightly larger.
The most important difference between the expired CUR Recommendation 38 and
German legislation on the one hand and this CUR Recommendation on the other hand
also involves the limit for the alkali content of CEM III/B. In Germany a limit of 2.0%
(m/m) Na2Oe is used for CEM III/B, which is significantly higher than the limiting value
in tables G1 and G2. Based on the Canadian experiments an alkali content of this kind
would be acceptable for approx. 70% (m/m) slag. See also chapter 5 of CUR report
2003-1.
CUR VC 62 believed that both the experience of Dutch and German practice and the
assumption that factory-produced cement has a higher performance than mixtures of
Portland cement and slag or fly ash justifies a higher limiting value for CEM III/B than
calculated in Table G2. This resulted in the limiting value of 1.5% (m/m) Na2Oe (for a
maximum contribution of other constituents of 0.6 kg/m3 Na2Oe).
The maximum allowable alkali content of the cement depends on the contribution of the
other constituents (aggregate, admixture and additions) in the concrete, which is shown
by tables G1 and G2. The aggregates common in the Netherlands have a low available
alkali content and the alkali contribution of the other constituents will almost always by
less than 0.6 kg/m3.
The answer to the question to what extent the aggregates provide alkalis for ASR is
greatly disputed. The proposed new Canadian regulations are based on 1.2 kg/m3. CUR
VC 62 has chosen to take this value as a starting point if the alkali content of the
aggregate is unknown. It is, however, important to prove here that the contribution of
admixtures and additions other than fly ash is negligible (< 0.1 kg/m3). If this is not the
case, a further evaluation of the alkali content of the concrete will be necessary.
Examples
In the following examples hypothetical concrete compositions are tested against the
requirements in paragraph 5.3. Additionally, the maximum allowable alkali content of
the cement is calculated according to the formula provided in this appendix to illustrate
matters.
41
Example 1: Calculation for concrete based on CEM II/B-V

Raw material Concrete composition Alkali content
3
(kg/m ) [% (m/m)]
CEM II/B-V* 320 0.7
Water 160 0.001
Sand 800 0.012
Gravel 1100 0.01
Admixture 3 2.0
* CEM II/B-V contains more than 25% fly ash, but less than 30%. The alkali content (Na2Oe) of the
fly ash used lies between 2% and 3%.
The contribution of alkalis can be calculated from the data and the calculated alkali
content of sand, gravel and admixture:
- Sand : 800 x 0.012% = 0.096 kg/m3
- Gravel : 1100 x 0.01% = 0.11
- Water : 160 x 0.001 = 0.0016
- Admixture : 3 x 2.0% = 0.06
Total = 0.268 kg/m3
Assessment using Table 1 in 5.3

The contribution by the other constituents is less than 0.6 kg/m3. As a result, the
maximum allowed alkali content of the cement is 1.3% (m/m), which is higher than the
alkali content of CEM II/B-V, which is 0.7% (m/m).
This concrete composition with CEM II/B-V fully complies with Article 5.3 of this
CUR Recommendation.
Example 2: Calculation for concrete based on CEM III/A

3
(kg/m ) [% (m/m)]
CEM III/A 340 0.6
Water 160 0.001
Limestone powder 100 0.07
Sand 820 0.017
Gravel 990 0.031
Admixture 2.61 3.0
* The blast-furnace slag content of the CEM III/A is higher than 50%.
content of limestone powder, sand, gravel and admixture:
- Limestone powder : 100 x 0.07 = 0.07 kg/m3
- Sand : 820 x 0.017% = 0.139
- Gravel : 990 x 0.031% = 0.307
- Water : 160 x 0.001% = 0.0016
- Admixture : 2.61 x 3.0% = 0.078
Total = 0.596 kg/m3

alkali content of CEM III/A, which is 0.6% (m/m). The cement complies, even after
rounding-off to 0.6 kg/m3.
This concrete composition with CEM III/A fully complies with Article 5.3 of this CUR
Recommendation.
42
Example 3: Calculation for concrete based on CEM III/B

3
(kg/m ) (% m/m)
CEM III/B 320 0.6
Water 160 0.001
Limestone powder 210 0.07
Sea sand 880 0.03
See gravel 990 0.031
Admixture 2.8 3.0
* The blast-furnace slag content of the CEM III/B is 66% or higher (by definition).
content of limestone powder, sea sand, sea gravel and admixture:
- Limestone powder : 210 x 0.07 = 0.147 kg/m3
- Sand : 880 x 0.03% = 0.264
- Gravel : 990 x 0.031% = 0.307
- Water : 160 x 0.001 = 0.0016
- Admixture : 2.8 x 3.0% = 0.084
Total = 0.804 kg/m3

The contribution by the other constituents is more than 0.6 kg/m3 and less than 1.2
kg/m3. As a result, the maximum allowed alkali content of the cement is 1.3% (m/m),
which is higher than the alkali content of CEM III/B, which is 0.6% (m/m).
This concrete composition with CEM III/B fully complies with Article 5.3 of this CUR
Recommendation.
Example 4: Calculation for concrete based on CEM I with fly ash

3
Raw material Concrete composition (kg/m ) Alkali content
(% m/m)
CEM I 320 0.7
Fly ash 145 ≤ 4.5
Water 160 0.001
Sand 800 0.012
Gravel 1100 0.01
Admixture 3 2.0
* The alkali content (Na2Oe) of the fly ash is lower than 4.5%.
- Sand : 800 x 0.012% = 0.096 kg/m3
- Gravel : 1100 x 0.01% = 0.11
- Water : 160 x 0.001 = 0.0016
- Admixture : 3 x 2.0% = 0.06
Total = 0.268 kg/m3

The portion of fly ash in the cement / fly ash mixture is: 145 / (145 + 320) * 100 = 31%
(m/m). This complies with the requirement in Table 2.
alkali content of CEM I, which is 0.7% (m/m).
This concrete composition with CEM I fully complies with Article 5.3 of this CUR
Recommendation.
43
Example 5: Calculation for concrete based on CEM III/B and CEM I with fly ash
3
(kg/m ) [% (m/m)]
CEM I 80 0.7
CEM III/B* 160 0.6
fly ash** 80 x ≤ 4.5
Water 160 0.001
Sand 800 0.012
Gravel 1100 0.01
Admixture 3 2.0
* CEM III/B contains 66% blast-furnace slag or more (by definition)
** The fly ash has an alkali content ≤ 4.5%
- Sand : 800 x 0.012% = 0.096 kg/m3
- Gravel : 1100 x 0.01% = 0.11
- Water : 160 x 0.001% = 0.0016
- Admixture : 3 x 2.0% = 0.06
Total = 0.268 kg/m3
The following were mixed:

80 kg CEM I, alkali content 0.7% and 80 kg of fly ash, alkali content ≤ 4.5% plus
160 kg CEM III/B with ≥ 66% slag
Both parts separately must comply with the requirements in paragraph 5.3.
Requirements for part A:

Assessment using Table 2 in paragraph 5.3.
The portion of fly ash in the cement / fly ash mixture is:
100 * 80 / (80 + 80) = 50% (m/m), which means that it complies with the requirement of
Table 2 in paragraph 5.3.
maximum allowed alkali content of the cement (CEM I) is 0.9% (m/m), which is higher
than the alkali content of the CEM I used, which is 0.6% (m/m).
Requirements for part B:

Assessment using Table 1 in paragraph 5.3.
maximum allowed alkali content of the cement (CEM III/B) is 1.5% (m/m), which is
higher than the alkali content of CEM III/B, which is 0.6% (m/m).
This concrete composition with CEM III/B, CEM I and fly ash fully complies with
Article 5.3 of this CUR Recommendation.
44
Appendix H Requirements for limestone powder
In the Netherlands there are no requirements for limestone powder for application in
concrete. This is why a search for relevant regulations was conducted abroad. The
following requirements relating to grain distribution are taken from the European
standard for aggregates for concrete, NEN-EN 12620. The other requirements to be set
for limestone powder are based on the French standard NF P 18-508.
Sieve passage
The following table lists the requirements with regard to the sieve passage of limestone
powder.
Table H1 Requirements with regard to sieve passage of limestone powder
Sieve Sieve passage (% m/m)

1
Individual measured results Maximum width of 90% area )
2 mm 100 -
500 µm - 10
1
125 µm 85 - 100 ) 10
1
63 µm 70 - 100 ) 10
1
) The producer must provide a range that contains at least 95% of the measured results. This range
must not be larger than indicated in this column.
Na2O equivalent
The producer of the limestone powder must state the maximum alkali content,
expressed as the Na2O equivalent (Na2O + 0.658⋅K2O), determined in accordance with
EN 196-21.
Table H2 Other requirements for limestone powder
Property Method Requirement Abs. limit
Moisture content NEN-EN 1097-5 - ≤ 1% (m/m)

2 2
Blaine NEN-EN 196-6 ≥ 220 and ≤700 m /kg ≥ 200 m /kg
Average Blaine - Target value ± 5% Target value ± 6%
1
Blaine content variation coefficient - ≤ 12% ) -
2 2
CaCO3 content App. A NF P 18508/EN 96-2 ≥ 90% (m/m) ) ≥ 87% (m/m) )
Methylene blue adsorption NEN-EN 933-9 ≤ 1.0% ≤ 1.3%
Organic material content (TOC) NEN-EN 13639 ≤ 0.20% (m/m) -
Chloride content NEN-EN 196-21 ≤ 0.10% (m/m) -
3
Sulphate content – SO3 NEN-EN 196-2 ≤ 0.50% (m/m) ) -
Sulphur content – S NEN-EN 1744-1 ≤ 0.40% (m/m) -
1 2
) For a Blaine average of less than 300 m /kg the requirement is that the standard deviation must be less than 35
2
m /kg.
2
) The producer must also provide a range that contains at least 90% of the measured results. This range must not
be larger than 10%.
3
) Contrary to NF P 18-508 the requirement for the sulphate content is not ≤ 0.15% but ≤ 0.50% m/m.
45
Titles of standards and recommendations stated
Standards
NEN 5937:1990 Aggregates for concrete. Determination of the content of
water-soluble compounds.
NEN 6720:1995 Regulations for concrete, TGB 1990. Structural requirements
and calculation methods (VBC 1995), incl. amendment
A3:2004.
NEN 5905:2005 Dutch specification of NEN-EN 12620, “Aggregates for
concrete”
NEN 8005:2004 Dutch specification of NEN-EN 206-1: Concrete – Part 1:
Specification, properties, production and conformity
NEN-EN 196-1:2005 Methods of testing cement – Part 1: Determination of
strength.
fineness.
NEN-EN 196-2:2005 Methods of testing cement – Part 2: Chemical analysis of
cement.
chloride, carbon dioxide and alkali content of cement.
NEN-EN 197-1:2000 Cement – Part 1: Composition, specifications and conformity
criteria for common cement types.
NEN-EN 197-1/A1:2004 Cement – Part 1: Composition, specification and conformity
criteria for common cements.
NEN-EN 197-4:2004 Cement – Part 4: Composition, specifications and conformity
criteria for low early strength blast furnace cement.
NEN-EN 206-1:2001 Concrete – Part 1: Specification, performance, production
and conformity (+ amendment A-1, 2004)
NEN-EN 450-1:2005 Fly ash for concrete – Part 1: Definition, specifications and
conformity criteria.
NEN-EN 480-12:2005 Admixtures for concrete, mortar and grout – Test methods –
Part 12: Determination of the alkali content of admixtures.
NEN-EN 932-1:1996 Test methods for general properties of aggregates – Part 1:
Methods for sampling.
NEN-EN 932-2:1999 Test methods for general properties of aggregates – Part 2:
Methods for reducing laboratory samples.
NEN-EN 1015-3:1999 Methods of test for masonry for mortar – Part 3:
Determination of consistence of fresh mortar (using a flow
table).
NEN-EN 1008:2002 Mixing water for concrete. Specification for sampling, testing
and assessing the suitability of water, including water
recovered from processes in the concrete industry, as mixing
water for concrete.
NEN-EN 1097-6:2000 Tests for mechanical and physical properties of aggregates –
Part 6: Determination of particle density and water
absorption, amendment A1 and corrigendum C1.
NEN-EN 12620:2002 Aggregates for concrete
NF P 18-508 Additions pour béton hydraulique - Additions calcaires -
Spécifications et critères de conformité (July 1995).
CUR Recommendations
93 Self-compacting concrete (2002)
94 Application of fly ash in mortar and concrete (2004)
97 High-strength concrete (2004)
46
Other guidelines and procedures

ISO 1920 : 2004 Concrete tests – Dimensions etc.
ISO 3310:1999 Part 1 and 2: test sieves – technical requirements and testing.
RILEM AAR 1 Petrographic analysis of alkali-reactive concrete aggregates.

Final Draft, 41 pp (1999).
A - TC 106-2 Detection of potential alkali-reactivity of aggregates – The
ultra-accelerated mortar-bar test. Materials & Structures, vol.
33, pp. 283-293 (2000).
B – TC 106-3 Detection of potential alkali-reactivity of aggregates –
Method for aggregate combinations using concrete prisms.
Materials & Structures, vol. 33, pp. 290-293 (2000).
Literature
CUR report 2003-1 Alkali-silica reaction in concrete – background report to CUR
Recommendation 89, Stichting CUR, Gouda, 2003
Photo Atlas of Potentially Alkali Reactive Aggregates as seen in Polarisation and
Fluorescence Microscopy (PFM), PELCON Materials & Testing Aps/RWS-DWW,
2005.
Dutch standards are publications by Stichting Nederlands Normalisatie-instituut,

Vlinderweg 6, Postbus 5059, 2600 GB Delft. Orders can be placed at NEN, sales and
information hotline, tel. +31 (0)15 269 03 91.
47
It should be pointed out that this CUR Recommendation reflects the state of the art at
the moment of publication. Any suggestions for experiences with the use of this
Recommendation will be gratefully received by CURNET. CUR Recommendations are
evaluated three years after publication and are updated if necessary. This will be
reported in the press.
Copyright
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval
system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopy-
ing, recording and/or otherwise, without the prior written permission of CURNET.
It is allowed, in accordance with article 15a Netherlands Copyright Act 1912, to quote
data from this publication in order to use this in articles, essays and books, provided that
the source of the quotation, and, insofar as this has been published, the name of the
author, are clearly mentioned. "© CUR-Recommendation 89 (second, revised edition)
Measures to prevent damage to concrete by alkali-silica reaction (ASR)", April 2008,
Gouda, The Netherlands."
Liability
CURNET and all contributors to this publication have taken every possible care in the
preparation of this publication. However, it cannot be guaranteed that this publication is
complete and/or free of errors. The use of this publication and data from this publication
is entirely at the user’s own risk and CURNET hereby excludes any and all liability for
any and all damage which may result from the use of this publication or data from this
publication, except insofar as this damage is a result of intentional error or gross
negligence of CURNET and/or the contributors.
Gouda, April 2008

The Board of CURNET
Stichting CURNET, Groningenweg 10, P.O. Box 420, 2800 AG GOUDA,

The Netherlands
tel. +31 (0)182540600
48

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CUR - Recommendation 89

Recommendation 89 (second, revised edition)

Measures to prevent damage

The Recommendation was drawn up by CUR Regulations Committee 62 “Alkali-silica

This Recommendation was approved by NEN/CUR committees 353 039 / RC 12

3 Terms and definitions 4

4 Procedures to prevent deleterious ASR 5

5 Assessment of the risk of deleterious ASR 7

6 Determination of the alkali content 11

7 Assessment of the ASR risk of aggregate 11

Appendix B Procedure for the preparation of blue light-fluorescent epoxy 22

Appendix C Vacuum impregnation of sand samples 23

Appendix D Preparing thin sections 24

Appendix G Notes on paragraph 5.3 and several example calculations 38

Appendix H Requirements for limestone powder 45

Titles of standards and recommendations stated 46

3 Terms and definitions

3.1 Alkali-silica reaction (ASR): the reaction of certain reactive, silica-containing

3.9 Chemically aggressive environment: environment that can be classified as environ-

3.12 Fine aggregate: aggregate for concrete or mortar with D ≤ 4 mm.

4 Procedures to prevent deleterious ASR

4.1 General information

Dry Wet Wet Sea water Wet with

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Yes Ja Cement complies with art.5.3

No Does concrete Yes

Yes Ultra-accelerated mortar bar Intended

Concrete prism expansion Total Concrete prism expansion

No risk of Modify concrete composition

Figure 4.1 Assessment of the risk of deleterious ASR

4.2 Modifying the concrete composition

5 Assessment of the risk of deleterious ASR

5.1 General information

5.2 Total alkali content of concrete

5.3.1 Cement in accordance with NEN-EN 197-1 and 197-4

Type of cement CEM II/B-V CEM III/A CEM III/B

5.3.2 Combinations of cement and fly ash

A. Concrete based on CEM I with fly ash

B. Mixtures of CEM III/B and CEM I

C. Mixtures of CEM I with fly ash and CEM III/A or B

D. Mixtures of CEM III/A or B with fly ash

Table 2 Overview of requirements in paragraph 5.3.2 “Combinations of cement

5.5 Limestone powder

Based on this test, the limestone powder is considered to be non-ASR-reactive if the

6 Determination of the alkali content

6.5 Mixing water

7 Assessment of the ASR risk of aggregate

7.1 General information

The test must be performed as followed:

Table 3 Diagram for selection of aggregate expansion test

7.2 PFM microscopy

The limiting value between ASR-reactive and non-ASR-reactive is set to 2 vol.%

7.3 Expansion tests

7.3.1 Ultra-accelerated mortar bar expansion test (UAMBT)

7.3.2 Concrete prism expansion test (CPT)

The requirement for expansion of non-ASR-reactive materials after 52 weeks is ≤

Table A1 Sample size

Maximum grain size Minimum amount

A3 Equipment and required materials

Jaw crusher: an adjustable laboratory jaw crusher, capable of crushing materials up to a

Impregnating, grinding and polishing agents: impregnating, grinding and polishing

Microscopes: a stereo microscope with a magnification of up to around 50x and a

Point-counting system: A ‘point-counting’ system that can be connected to the