Nobody in the construction trade wants to deal with an alkali-silica reaction. Due to the expansion that occurs because of the reaction, concrete can suffer from significant cracking and deterioration when ASR takes hold.

The loss in concrete durability results in significant structural issues. If these cannot be remedied – usually via significant reconstruction or maintenance costs – there is only one route to take: demolition. This is why testing is essential to avoid the problem.

ASTMC 1567, Determining the Potential Alkali-Silica Reactivity of Combinations of Cementitious Materials and Aggregate, is a standard testing method. This is also known as the Accelerated Mortar-Bar Method.

The ASTMC 1567 test method: an overview

Alkali-silica reactivity is something that generally takes place over decades. Nevertheless, it’s imperative that testing is conducted to ensure your concrete possesses the necessary durability.

ASTMC 1567 is one of the primary tests used for the scenario. Often done in conjunction with ASTMC 1260 (Potential Alkali Reactivity of Aggregates), ASTMC 1567 is responsible for determining secondary cementitious materials and their effectiveness in curbing aggregate activity.

Instead of waiting years or even decades for the results, the test is organized over a period of 16 days. 

The scope of the test

As detailed by the American Society for Testing and Materials, the scope of the ASTMC 1567 test method is as follows:

1. The test aims to detect how cementitious materials and aggregate combinations play a role in potentially harmful alkali-silica reactions. These cementitious materials are made up of varying amounts of pozzolans, ground granulated blast-furnace slag, and hydraulic cement.
2. It is important to note that test results are applicable only for slag, pozzolan, and reactive aggregate combinations.
3. When it comes to assessing mixtures of hydraulic cement and aggregate and their potential for deleterious reactions, this is not a suitable test when ground granulated blast-furnace slag or pozzolans are absent.
4. With this test method, explanatory material is supplied by text via notes and footnotes. Other than the text found in tables and figures, the notes and footnotes are not to be regarded as requirements with the test process.
5. The values, when listed in SI units, are standard. Keep in mind that in this standard, there is no inclusion of other units.
6. With the test, note that it doesn’t profess to address any safety concerns with alkali-silica reactivity. The user is responsible for following health, safety, and environmental practices. They also need to establish the appropriateness of regulatory limitations before use.

Get the right testing for your construction materials – completed by experts

Construction is not something you can take lightly. Any shortcuts in the process can spell plenty of trouble in the future. To avoid potential problems, ensure you perform the necessary testing on your construction materials.

With ASTMC 1567 tests, A & S Laboratories can guarantee results – fast. With more than three decades of experience under our belts, we provide test results promptly and with exacting accuracy, providing you with peace of mind regarding your materials.