Fracture of reinforcing steels in concrete damaged by ASR

Alkali-silica reaction in concrete structure is often accompanied by fracture of reinforcing steels. Possibility of hydrogen embrittlement cracking in reinforcing steels was investigated based on the results of Vickers hardness test, residual stress estimation and occluded hydrogen measurement.

► Alkali-silica reaction is often accompanied by fracture of reinforcing steels.
► Fracture in reinforcing steels occurred at the rib base in the inside of the bend.
► Tensile residual stress of about 300 MPa occurred due to bending at the rib base.
► Risk of hydrogen embrittlement cracking was evaluated.