Designation: C 1293 – 08b

Standard Test Method for

Determination of Length Change of Concrete Due to Alkali-
Silica Reaction1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C 1293; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope* C 192/C 192M Practice for Making and Curing Concrete

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the sus- Test Specimens in the Laboratory
ceptibility of an aggregate or combination of an aggregate with C 227 Test Method for Potential Alkali Reactivity of
pozzolan or slag for participation in expansive alkali-silica Cement-Aggregate Combinations (Mortar-Bar Method)
reaction by measurement of length change of concrete prisms. C 289 Test Method for Potential Alkali-Silica Reactivity of
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the Aggregates (Chemical Method)
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the C 294 Descriptive Nomenclature for Constituents of Con-
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- crete Aggregates
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica- C 295 Guide for Petrographic Examination of Aggregates
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. (Warning—Fresh for Concrete
hydraulic cementitious mixtures are caustic and may cause C 490 Practice for Use of Apparatus for the Determination
chemical burns to skin and tissue upon prolonged exposure.2) of Length Change of Hardened Cement Paste, Mortar, and
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the Concrete
standard. No other units of measurement are included in this C 494/C 494M Specification for Chemical Admixtures for
standard. When combined standards are cited, the selection of Concrete
measurement system is at the user’s discretion subject to the C 511 Specification for Mixing Rooms, Moist Cabinets,
requirements of the referenced standard. Moist Rooms, and Water Storage Tanks Used in the
Testing of Hydraulic Cements and Concretes
2. Referenced Documents C 618 Specification for Coal Fly Ash and Raw or Calcined
2.1 ASTM Standards:3 Natural Pozzolan for Use in Concrete
C 29/C 29M Test Method for Bulk Density (“Unit Weight”) C 702 Practice for Reducing Samples of Aggregate to
and Voids in Aggregate Testing Size
C 33 Specification for Concrete Aggregates C 856 Practice for Petrographic Examination of Hardened
C 125 Terminology Relating to Concrete and Concrete Concrete
Aggregates C 989 Specification for Ground Granulated Blast-Furnace
C 138/C 138M Test Method for Density (Unit Weight), Slag for Use in Concrete and Mortars
Yield, and Air Content (Gravimetric) of Concrete C 1240 Specification for Silica Fume Used in Cementitious
C 143/C 143M Test Method for Slump of Hydraulic- Mixtures
Cement Concrete C 1260 Test Method for Potential Alkali Reactivity of
C 150 Specification for Portland Cement Aggregates (Mortar-Bar Method)
C 157/C 157M Test Method for Length Change of Hard- D 75 Practice for Sampling Aggregates
ened Hydraulic-Cement Mortar and Concrete 2.2 CSA Standards:4
CSA A23.2-14A Potential Expansivity of Aggregates (Pro-
cedure for Length Change due to Alkali-Aggregate Reac-
1
This test method is under the jurisdiction of Committee C09 on Concrete and tion in Concrete Prisms at 38 °C)
Concrete Aggregates and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C09.26 on
Chemical Reactions. CSA A23.2-27A Standard Practice to Identify Degree of
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2008. Published January 2009. Originally Alkali-Reactivity of Aggregates and to Identify Measures
approved in 1995. Last previous edition approved in 2008 as C 1293 – 08a.
2
to Avoid Deleterious Expansion in Concrete
Section on Safety Precautions, Manual of Aggregate and Concrete Testing,
CSA A23.2-28A Standard Practice for Laboratory Testing
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol. 04.02.
3
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
4
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on Available from Canadian Standards Association (CSA), 5060 Spectrum Way,
the ASTM website. Mississauga, ON L4W 5N6, Canada, http://www.csa.ca.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard.

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, United States.

Copyright by ASTM Int'l (all rights reserved); Thu Apr 16 08:44:40 EDT 2009 1
Downloaded/printed by
Laurentian University pursuant to License Agreement. No further reproductions authorized.
 C 1293 – 08b
to Demonstrate the Effectiveness of Supplementary Ce- aggregate with the tested amount of pozzolan or slag is
menting Materials and Lithium-Based Admixtures to Pre- potentially alkali-reactive. Supplemental information should be
vent Alkali-Silica Reaction in Concrete developed to confirm that the expansion is actually due to
alkali-silica reaction. Petrographic examination of the concrete
3. Terminology prisms should be conducted after the test using Practice C 856
3.1 Terminology used in this standard is as given in Termi- to confirm that known reactive constituents are present and to
nology C 125 or Descriptive Nomenclature C 294. identify the products of alkali-silica reactivity. Confirmation of
alkali-silica reaction is also derived from the results of the test
4. Significance and Use methods this procedure supplements (see Appendix X1).
4.1 Alkali-silica reaction is a chemical interaction between 4.8 If the supplemental tests show that a given aggregate is
some siliceous constituents of concrete aggregates and hy- potentially deleteriously reactive, additional studies may be
droxyl ions (1).5 The concentration of hydroxyl ion within the appropriate to evaluate preventive measures in order to allow
concrete is predominantly controlled by the concentration of safe use of the aggregate. Preventive measures are mentioned
sodium and potassium (2). in the Appendix to Specification C 33.
4.2 This test method is intended to evaluate the potential of 4.9 This test method does not address the general suitability
an aggregate or combination of an aggregate with pozzolan or of pozzolans or slag for use in concrete. These materials should
slag to expand deleteriously due to any form of alkali-silica comply with Specification C 618, Specification C 989, or
reactivity (3,4). Specification C 1240.
4.3 When testing an aggregate with pozzolan or slag, the
results are used to establish minimum amounts of the specific 5. Apparatus
pozzolan or slag needed to prevent deleterious expansion. 5.1 The molds, the associated items for molding test speci-
Pozzolan or slag from a specific source can be tested individu- mens, and the length comparator for measuring length change
ally or in combination with pozzolan or slag from other shall conform to the applicable requirements of Test Method
sources. C 157/C 157M and Practice C 490, and the molds shall have
4.4 When selecting a sample or deciding on the number of nominal 75-mm square cross sections.
samples for test, it is important to recognize the variability in 5.2 The storage container options required to maintain the
lithology of material from a given source, whether a deposit of prisms at a high relative humidity are described in 5.2.1.
sand, gravel, or a rock formation of any origin. For specific 5.2.1 Recommended Container—The recommended con-
advice, see Guide C 295. tainers are 19 to 22-L polyethylene pails with airtight lids and
4.5 This test method is intended for evaluating the behavior approximate dimensions of 250- to 270-mm diameter at
of aggregates in portland cement concrete with an alkali (alkali bottom, 290 to 310 mm at top, by 355 to 480 mm high. Prevent
metal oxide) content of 5.25 kg/m3 or in concrete containing significant loss of enclosed moisture due to evaporation with
pozzolan or slag with an alkali content proportionally reduced airtight lid seal. Place a perforated rack in the bottom of the
from 5.25 kg/m3 Na2O equivalent by the amount of pozzolan storage container so that the prisms are 30 to 40 mm above the
or slag replacing portland cement. This test method assesses bottom. Fill the container with water to a depth of 20 6 5 mm
the potential for deleterious expansion of concrete caused by above the bottom. A significant moisture loss is defined as a
alkali-silica reaction, of either coarse or fine aggregates, from loss greater than 3 % of the original amount of water placed at
tests performed under prescribed laboratory curing conditions the bottom of the pail. Place a wick of absorbent material
that will probably differ from field conditions. Thus, actual around the inside wall of the container from the top so that the
field performance will not be duplicated due to differences in bottom of the wick extends into the water (See Note 1).
concrete alkali content, wetting and drying, temperature, other 5.2.2 Alternative Containers—Alternative storage contain-
factors, or combinations of these (5). ers may be used. Confirm the efficiency of the alternative
4.6 Results of tests conducted on an aggregate as described storage container with an alkali-reactive aggregate of known
herein should form a part of the basis for a decision as to expansion characteristics.6 The expansion efficiency is con-
whether precautions should be taken against excessive expan- firmed when expansions at one year obtained using the
sion due to alkali-silica reaction. Results of tests conducted on alternative container are within 10 % of those obtained using
combinations of an aggregate with pozzolans or slag should the recommended container. Alternative storage containers
form a part of the basis for a decision as to whether the specific must contain the required depth of water. When reporting
pozzolan or slag, when used in the amount tested, was effective results, note the use of an alternative container, if one is used,
in preventing excessive expansion. These decisions should be together with documentation proving compliance with the
made before a particular aggregate is used in concrete con- above.
struction. Criteria to determine the potential deleteriousness of
expansions measured in this test are given in Appendix X1.
4.7 When the expansions in this test method are greater than 6
The sole source of supply of non-reactive aggregates and alkali-silica reactive
the limit shown in X1.2, the aggregate or combination of aggregates of known expansion characteristics (6) known to the committee at this
time is The Petrographer, Engineering Materials Office, Ministry of Transportation,
1201 Wilson Ave., Downsview, Ontario, Canada, M3M1J8.. If you are aware of
alternative suppliers, please provide this information to ASTM International
5
The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to the list of references at the end of Headquarters. Your comments will receive careful consideration at a meeting of the
this test method. responsible technical committee 1, which you may attend.

Copyright by ASTM Int'l (all rights reserved); Thu Apr 16 08:44:40 EDT 2009 2
Downloaded/printed by
Laurentian University pursuant to License Agreement. No further reproductions authorized.
 C 1293 – 08b
NOTE 1—Polypropylene geotextile fabric or blotting paper are suitable NOTE 3—The value of 1.25 % Na2O equivalent by mass of cement has
materials for use as the wick. been chosen to accelerate the process of expansion rather than to
reproduce field conditions. At the 420 kg/m3 cement content, this
5.3 The storage environment necessary to maintain the 38.0
corresponds to an alkali level of 5.25 kg/m3 .
°C reaction accelerating storage temperature consistently and
homogeneously is described in 5.3.1. 7.2 Aggregates:
5.3.1 Recommended Environment—The recommended stor- 7.2.1 To evaluate the reactivity of a coarse aggregate, use a
age environment is a sealed space insulated so as to minimize nonreactive fine aggregate. A nonreactive fine aggregate is
heat loss. Provide a fan for air circulation so the maximum defined as an aggregate that develops an expansion in the
variation in temperature measured within 250 mm of the top accelerated mortar bar, (see Test Method C 1260) of less than
and bottom of the space does not exceed 2.0 °C. Provide an 0.10 % at 14 days (see X1.6 for interpretation of expansion
insulated entry door with adequate seals so as to minimize heat data). Use a fine aggregate meeting Specification C 33 with a
loss. Racks for storing containers within the space are not to be fineness modulus of 2.7 6 0.2.
closer than 30 mm to the sides of the enclosure and are to be 7.2.2 To evaluate the reactivity of a fine aggregate, use a
perforated so as to provide air flow. Provide an automatically nonreactive coarse aggregate. Prepare the nonreactive coarse
controlled heat source to maintain the temperature at 38.0 6 aggregate according to 7.2.3.6 A nonreactive coarse aggregate
2.0 °C (see Note 2). Record the ambient temperature and its is defined as an aggregate that develops an expansion in the
variation within the space to ensure compliance. accelerated mortar bar (see Test Method C 1260) of less than
0.10 % at 14 days (see X1.6 for interpretation of expansion
NOTE 2—It has been found to be good practice to monitor the efficiency data). Use a coarse aggregate meeting Specification C 33. Test
of the storage environment by placing thermocouples inside dummy
the fine aggregate using the grading as delivered to the
concrete specimens inside a dummy container within the storage area. The
storage room described in Test Method C 227 generally will be satisfac- laboratory.
tory. 7.2.3 Sieve the coarse aggregate and recombine in accor-
dance with the requirements in Table 1. Select the Table 1
5.3.2 Alternative Storage Environment—Use of an alterna-
grading based on the as-received grading of the sample. Coarse
tive storage environment is permitted. Confirm the efficiency
aggregate fractions larger than 19.0-mm sieve are not to be
of the alternative storage container with an alkali-reactive
tested as such. When petrographic examination using Guide
aggregate of known expansion characteristics.6 The expansion
C 295 reveals that the material making up the size fraction
efficiency is confirmed when expansions at one year obtained
larger than the 19.0-mm sieve is of such a composition and
using the alternative storage environment are within 10 % of
lithology that no difference should be expected compared with
those obtained using the recommended environment. When
the smaller size material, then no further attention need be paid
reporting the results, note the use of an alternative storage
to the larger sizes. If petrographic examination suggests the
environment, if one is utilized, together with documentation
larger size material to have a different reactivity, the material
proving compliance with the above.
should be studied for its effect in concrete according to one of
the other alternative procedures described herein:
6. Reagents
7.2.3.1 Proportional Testing—Crush material larger than
6.1 Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH)—USP or technical grade the 19.0-mm sieve to pass the 19.0-mm sieve. The crushing
may be used. (Warning—Before using NaOH, review: (1) the operation shall be performed in a manner that minimizes
safety precautions for using NaOH; (2) first aid for burns; and production of material passing the 4.75-mm sieve. Grade this
(3) the emergency response to spills as described in the crushed material per the Table 1 grading, and add to the
manufacturers Material Safety Data Sheet or other reliable original mass of graded aggregate produced in 7.2.3 such that
safety literature. NaOH can cause severe burns and injury to the ratio of crushed, graded, oversize aggregate to total graded
unprotected skin and eyes. Always use suitable personal aggregate equals the ratio of material retained on the 19.0-mm
protective equipment including: full-face shields, rubber sieve to the total material retained above the 4.75-mm sieve
aprons, and gloves impervious to NaOH (Check periodically (See Note 4).
for pinholes.).)
6.2 Water: NOTE 4—For example, if the material retained on the 19-mm sieve
formed 25 % of the total material retained above the 4.75-mm sieve, then
6.2.1 Use potable tap water for mixing and storage. the mass of crushed and returned oversize material shall form 25 % of the
total graded aggregate.
7. Materials
7.2.3.2 Separated Size Testing—Crush material larger than
7.1 Cement—Use a cement meeting the requirements for a the 19.0-mm sieve to pass the 19.0-mm sieve, grade that
Type I Portland cement as specified in Specification C 150. The material as per Table 1 and test in concrete as a separate
cement must have a total alkali content of 0.9 6 0.1 % Na2O aggregate.
equivalent (Na2O equivalent is calculated as percent Na2O +
0.658 3 percent K2O). Determine the total alkali content of the TABLE 1 Grading Requirement
cement either by analysis or by obtaining a mill run certificate Sieve Size Mass Fraction
from the cement manufacturer. Add NaOH to the concrete Passing Retained Coarse Intermediate
mixing water so as to increase the alkali content of the mixture, 19.0-mm 12.5-mm 1⁄ 3 ...
12.5-mm 9.5-mm 1⁄ 3 1 ⁄2
expressed as Na2O equivalent, to 1.25 % by mass of cement 9.5-mm 4.75-mm 1⁄ 3 1 ⁄2

(see Note 3).

Copyright by ASTM Int'l (all rights reserved); Thu Apr 16 08:44:40 EDT 2009 3
Downloaded/printed by
Laurentian University pursuant to License Agreement. No further reproductions authorized.
 C 1293 – 08b
7.3 Concrete Mixture Proportions—Proportion the concrete Cement content of = 420 kg 3 0.8
mixture to the following requirements: concrete (20 % by mass pozzolan)
= 336 kg
7.3.1 Cementitious Materials Content—420 6 10 kg/m.3 Amount of alkali in the concrete = 336 kg 3 0.90 %
7.3.1.1 When evaluating the susceptibility of an aggregate = 3.02 kg
to expansive alkali-silica reaction, use cement as 100 % of the Specified amount of alkali in concrete = 336 kg 3 1.25 %
= 4.20 kg
cementitious material. Amount of alkali to be added to concrete = 4.20 kg – 3.02 kg
7.3.1.2 When evaluating combinations of aggregate with = 1.18 kg
pozzolan or slag, replace cement with the desired amount of The difference (1.18 kg) is the amount of alkali, expressed as Na2O
pozzolan or slag on a percent by mass basis. equivalent, to be added to the mix water.
7.3.2 Coarse Aggregate Content—Use a dry mass of coarse Amount of NaOH required for Example B:
aggregate per unit volume of concrete equal to 0.70 6 0.02 of
1.18 3 1.291 5 1.523 kg/m3 (3)
its dry-rodded bulk density as determined by Test Method
C 29/C 29M for all classes of aggregates (for example, low 8. Sampling
density, normal, and high density).
8.1 Obtain the aggregate sample in accordance with Practice
7.3.3 Water-Cementitious Materials Ratio (w/cm)—
D 75 and reduce it to test portion size in accordance with
Maintain w/cm in the range of 0.42 to 0.45 by mass. Adjust the
Practice C 702.
w/cm within this range to give sufficient workability to permit
satisfactory compaction of the concrete in the molds. If 9. Specimen Preparation
necessary to obtain sufficient workability within the specified 9.1 Mixing Concrete:
w/cm range, use of a high-range water reducer (HRWR), 9.1.1 General—Mix concrete in accordance with the stan-
meeting the requirements of Specification C 494/C 494M Type dard practice for making and curing concrete test specimens in
F is permitted. If, within the specified w/cm range, specimens the laboratory as described in Practice C 192/C 192M.
representative of the concrete mixture cannot be fabricated due 9.1.2 Slump—Measure the slump of each batch of concrete
to excessive bleeding or segregation, the use of a viscosity- immediately after mixing in accordance with Test Method
modifying admixture (VMA) is permitted. Report the w/cm C 143/C 143M.
ratio used and the amount, if any, of HRWR or VMA. 9.1.3 Yield, and Air Content—Determine the yield, and air
7.3.4 Admixture (NaOH)—Dissolve in the mixing water and content of each batch of concrete in accordance with Test
add as required to bring the alkali content of the concrete Method C 138/C 138M. Concrete used for slump, yield, and air
mixture, expressed as Na2Oe = % Na2O + 0.6583 % K2O, up content tests may be returned to the mixing pan and remixed
to 1.25 % by mass of cement (see Note 5). Use no other into the batch.
admixture in the concrete except as permitted in the section on 9.2 Prepare three specimens of the type required for con-
Water-Cementitious Materials Ratio. crete in Test Method C 157/C 157M from one batch of con-
NOTE 5—Example calculations for determining the amount of NaOH to crete (see Note 6).
be added to the mixing water to increase the alkali content of the cement
from 0.90 % to 1.25 %: NOTE 6—It has been found useful to cast an additional (4th) prism that
can be removed from the test and used for petrographic examination at any
Example A (Cement Only)
time.
Cementitious materials = 420 kg
content of 1 m3 concrete 9.3 Initial Conditioning—Cure, store, and remove molds in
Cement content of concrete = 420 kg accordance with Test Method C 157/C 157M.
Amount of alkali in the concrete = 420 kg 3 0.90 %
= 3.78 kg 10. Procedure
Specified amount of alkali in concrete = 420 kg 3 1.25 %
= 5.25 kg 10.1 Initial Comparator Reading—Follow the procedure of
Amount of alkali to be added to concrete = 5.25 kg − 3.78 kg Test Method C 157/C 157M, except do not place in saturated
= 1.47 kg
lime water. Make initial length reading at the time of removal
The difference (1.47 kg) is the amount of alkali, expressed as Na2O equivalent, from the mold at an age of 23.5 6 0.5 h. Thereafter, keep the
to be added to the mix water. Factor to convert Na2O to NaOH: specimens at 38.0 6 2 °C in storage containers in accordance
since
(Na2O + H2O → 2 NaOH) with 5.2.
Compound Molecular Weight 10.2 Subsequent Comparator Readings—Stand the speci-
Na2O 61.98 men on end. Specimens shall not be in contact with water in the
NaOH 39.997 reservoir within the storage container. Seal the container and
Conversion factor: place container in a 38.0 6 2 °C storage environment. At no
2 3 39.997/61.98 5 1.291; (1) time should the storage container be in contact with the walls
or floor of the 38.0 6 2 °C storage environment and there shall
Amount of NaOH required in Example A: be an adequate flow of air around the container.
1.47 3 1.291 5 1.898 kg/m3 (2) 10.2.1 When the specimens are 7 days old, take a compara-
Example B (20 % of cement is replaced tor reading after removal of the container and contents from the
by pozzolan) storage environment according to 10.2.2. Subsequent readings
Cementitious materials = 420 kg are required at the ages of 28 and 56 days, as well as 3, 6, 9,
content of 1 m3 concrete and 12 months when testing an aggregate for susceptibility to

Copyright by ASTM Int'l (all rights reserved); Thu Apr 16 08:44:40 EDT 2009 4
Downloaded/printed by
Laurentian University pursuant to License Agreement. No further reproductions authorized.
 C 1293 – 08b
expansive alkali-silica reaction and additionally at 18 and 24 12.1.10 The average length change in percent at each
months when testing combinations of aggregates with poz- reading of the prisms along with the individual length change
zolans or slag. Additional readings beyond those required for in percentage for each prism,
the specific application are suggested at 6-month intervals. 12.1.11 Any significant features revealed by examination of
10.2.2 Remove the containers holding the prisms from the the concrete prisms either during the test or at the end of the
38.0 6 2.0 °C temperature environment and place in a moist test (for example, cracks, gel formation, or peripheral reaction
cabinet or moist room that is in compliance with Specification rims on aggregate particles), and
C 511 for a period 16 6 4 h before reading. 12.1.12 Type of storage container and 38.0 6 2.0 °C storage
10.3 Fabricate all specimens placed in a given storage environment used to store the concrete prisms if they differ
container at the same time so that all specimens in that from those specified in 5.2.1 and 5.3.1.
container are due for comparator reading at the same time.
10.4 Identify the specimens so as to place the specimens in 13. Precision and Bias
the comparator with the same end up. After the comparator 13.1 Multi-Laboratory Precision:
reading of the prism, replace the specimen in the storage 13.1.1 Average Expansion Less Than 0.014 %—The multi-
container but invert the upper end as compared with the laboratory standard deviation of a single test result (mean of
previous storage period. In this way the prisms are not stored measurements of three prisms) for average expansion less than
through two consecutive storage periods with the same ends 0.014 % has been found to be 0.0032 % (CSA A23.2-14A).4
up. Therefore, results of two properly conducted tests in different
laboratories on the same aggregate should not differ by more
11. Calculation than 0.009 %, nineteen times out of twenty.
11.1 Calculate the change in length between the initial 13.1.2 Average Expansion Greater Than 0.014 %—The
comparator reading of the specimen and the comparator multi-laboratory coefficient of variation of a single test result
reading at each time interval to the nearest 0.001 % of the (mean of measurements of three prisms) for average expansion
effective gage length and record as the length change of the greater than 0.014 % has been found to be 23 % (CSA A23.2-
prism for that period. Calculate the average length change in 14A).4 Therefore, results of two properly conducted tests in
percentage for the group of prisms at the age. different laboratories on the same aggregate should not differ
11.2 Data from at least three bars must be available at any from each other by more than 65 % of their average, nineteen
age to constitute a valid test at that age. times out of twenty.
13.2 Within-Laboratory Precision:
12. Report 13.2.1 Average Expansion Less Than 0.02 %—For average
12.1 Report the following information: expansions of less than 0.02 %, the multi-specimen, within-
12.1.1 Type and source of coarse and fine aggregates, and laboratory standard deviation has been found to be 0.0025 %
the coarse aggregate grading used, (CSA A23.2-14A). Therefore, the range (difference between
12.1.2 Type and source of portland cement, highest and lowest) of the three individual prism measurements
12.1.3 The alkali content of the cement as percent potas- used in calculating an average test result should not exceed
sium oxide (K2O), sodium oxide (Na2O), and calculated 0.008 %, nineteen times out of twenty.
percent NaOe, 13.2.2 Average Expansion Greater Than 0.02 %—For aver-
12.1.4 Type, source, and amount (percent by mass of age expansions of more than 0.02 %, the multi-specimen,
cementitious material) of any pozzolan or slag used, within-laboratory coefficient of variation has been found to be
12.1.5 The amount, if any, of high-range water reducer or 12 % (CSA A23.2-14A). Therefore, the range (difference be-
viscosity-modifying admixture used, tween highest and lowest) of the three individual prism
12.1.6 Concrete mixture proportions based on SSD aggre- measurements used in calculating an average test result should
gates, and corrected for yield, not exceed 40 % of the average, nineteen times out of twenty.
12.1.7 The amount of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) added to 13.3 Bias—Since there is no accepted reference material for
the mixing water, expressed as percent sodium oxide (Na2O) determining the bias of this test method, no statement is being
equivalent by mass of the cement, made.
12.1.8 The w/cm based on saturated, surface dry (SSD)
aggregates, 14. Keywords
12.1.9 The slump, with mass yield and air content of the 14.1 aggregate; alkali-silica reactivity; concrete; length
concrete batched, change; pozzolan; slag

Copyright by ASTM Int'l (all rights reserved); Thu Apr 16 08:44:40 EDT 2009 5
Downloaded/printed by
Laurentian University pursuant to License Agreement. No further reproductions authorized.
 C 1293 – 08b
APPENDIX

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. Interpretation of Results

X1.1 The question of whether or not criteria based on the dure(s) be performed concurrently with this test method and
results obtained using this test method should be used for any discrepancies between the results explained. Care should
acceptance of materials for use as concrete aggregate will be be exercised in the interpretation of these other test method
dealt with, if deemed appropriate, in Specification C 33. results (9-14).
X1.2 Work has been reported from which it may be inferred X1.6 The use of this test method should especially be
that an aggregate might reasonably be classified as potentially considered when other test methods may be inadequate. Some
deleteriously reactive if the average expansion of three con- examples of such problems are as follows: The potential
crete specimens is equal to or greater than 0.04 % at one year reactivity of various varieties of quartz may not be accurately
(7) (CSA A23.2-27A-00 Table 1). determined by Test Method C 227 since the test method may
produce a false-negative result (3). False-negative results are
X1.3 It is reasonable to conclude that the amount of possible with a number of aggregates such as slow-late
pozzolan or slag used in combination with an aggregate is at expanding argillaceous greywackes, strained quartz and micro-
least the minimum needed to prevent excessive expansion in crystalline quartz associated with strained quartz (3,4,13).
field concrete if the average expansion is less than 0.04 % at False-negative results are also possible due to storage condi-
two years (CSA A23.2-28A-02). tions (9), reactive aggregate levels far above or below pessi-
mum (3) or insufficient alkali to accelerate the test (3). The
X1.4 A history of satisfactory field performance in concrete
potential reactivity of various varieties of quartz may not be
is the best method of evaluating the potential for an aggregate
accurately determined by Test Method C 1260 since the test
to cause premature deterioration of concrete due to alkali-silica
method may produce a false-positive result with a number of
reaction. When field performance of an aggregate in concrete is
marginally reactive aggregates (13). Test Method C 1260 may
to be accepted, the following conditions should be met (8):
also give a false-negative result with aggregates suspected of
X1.4.1 The cement content and alkali content of the cement containing deleterious strained quartz (14).
should be the same or higher in the field concrete than is
proposed in the new structure. X1.7 If the data generated with other test methods and
X1.4.2 The concrete examined should be at least 10 years supplemented with information from this test method judge an
old. aggregate to be “not potentially deleteriously alkali-silica
X1.4.3 The exposure conditions of the field concrete should reactive,” no restrictions are usually required with the use of
be at least as severe as those in the proposed structure. that aggregate in order to protect against expansion due to
alkali-silica reaction (7) (see Note X1.1).
X1.5 This test method supplements the results of other test
methods. The results of the other test methods are usually X1.8 Additional interlaboratory testing data is provided in
reported before the results of this test method are available. Ref (15).
Standards that this test method supplements include: Test NOTE X1.1—In critical structures such as those used for nuclear
Method C 227, Guide C 295, Test Method C 289, and Test containment or large dams, where slight expansions cannot be tolerated, a
Method C 1260. It is recommended that the relevant proce- lower expansion limit may be required.

REFERENCES

(1) Diamond, S., “Alkali Reactions in Concrete-Pore Solution Effects,” and Field Expansion of Alkali-Carbonate Reactive Concrete,” Pro-
Proceedings, 6th International Conference on Alkali-Aggregate Reac- ceedings, 9th International Conference on Alkali-Aggregate Reaction
tion in Concrete, Copenhagen, Denmark, 1983, pp. 155–166. in Concrete, Concrete Society, Slough, U.K., 1992, pp. 877–884.
(2) Diamond, S., “ASR—Another Look at Mechanisms,” Proceedings, (6) Rogers, C. A., “General Information on Standard Alkali-Reactive
8th International Conference on Alkali-Aggregate Reaction, Kyoto, Aggregates from Ontario, Canada,” Ontario Ministry of Transporta-
Japan, 1989, pp. 83–94. tion, Engineering Materials Office, 1988, p. 59.
(3) Grattan-Bellew, P. E., “Test Methods and Criteria for Evaluating the (7) Grattan-Bellew, P. E., “Reevaluation of Standard Mortar Bar and
Potential Reactivity of Aggregates,” Proceedings, 8th International Concrete Prism Tests,” Materiaux et Constructions, Vol 16, No. 94,
Conference on Alkali-Aggregate Reaction, Kyoto, Japan, 1989, pp. 1983, pp. 243–250.
279–294. (8) British Cement Association, “The Diagnosis of Alkali-silica Reac-
(4) Grattan-Bellew, P. E., “Microcrystalline Quartz, Undulatory Extinction tion,” British Cement Association, Crowthorne, Berks, RG1 6YS,
and Alkali-Silica Reaction,” Proceedings, 9th International Confer- United Kingdom, Second edition, 1992.
ence on Alkali-Aggregate Reaction in Concrete, Concrete Society, (9) Rogers, C. A., and Hooton, R. D., “Reduction in Mortar and Concrete
Slough, U.K., 1992, pp. 383–394. Expansion with Reactive Aggregates Due to Leaching,” Cement,
(5) Rogers, C. A., and Hooton, R. D., “Comparison Between Laboratory Concrete and Aggregates, CCAGDP, Vol 13, 1991, pp. 42–49.

Copyright by ASTM Int'l (all rights reserved); Thu Apr 16 08:44:40 EDT 2009 6
Downloaded/printed by
Laurentian University pursuant to License Agreement. No further reproductions authorized.
 C 1293 – 08b
(10) Bérubé, M. A., and Fournier, B., “Accelerated Test Methods for Research, Vol 21, 1991, pp. 853–862.
Alkali-Aggregate Reactivity,” Advances in Concrete Technology, (13) Hooton, R. D., “New Aggregate Alkali-Reactivity Test Methods,”
Malhotra, V. M., ed., Canada Communication Group, Ottawa, 1992, Ontario Ministry of Transportation, Research and Development
pp. 583–627. Branch Report MAT-91-14, November, 1991.
(11) Sorrentino, D., Clément, J. Y., and Goldberg, J. M., “A New (14) Kerrick, D. M., and Hooton, R. D., “ASR of Concrete Aggregate
Approach to Characterize the Chemical Reactivity of the Aggre- Quarried from a Fault Zone: Results and Petrographic Interpretation
gates,” Proceedings, 9th International Conference on Alkali- of Accelerated Mortar Bar Test,” Cement and Concrete Research, Vol
Aggregate Reaction in Concrete, Concrete Society, Slough, U.K., 22, 1992, pp. 949–960.
1992, pp. 1009–1016. (15) Fournier, B. and Malhotra, V.M., “Interlaboratory Study on the CSA
(12) Fournier, B., and Bérubé, M. A., “Application of the NBRI Acceler- A 23.2-14A Concrete Prism Test for Alkali-Silica Reactivity in
ated Mortar Bar Test to Siliceous Carbonate Aggregates Produced in Concrete”, Proceedings, 10th International Conference on Alkali-
the St. Lawrence Lowlands (Quebec, Canada), Part 1: Influence of Aggregate Reaction in Concrete”, CSIRO, Melbourne, Australia,
Various Parameters on the Test Results, Cement and Concrete 1996, pp. 302-309.

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee C09 has identified the location of selected changes to this test method since the last issue,
C 1293 – 08a, that may impact the use of this test method. (Approved December 1, 2008)

(1) Revised 1.3. (3) Deleted old 12.1.13.

(2) Revised 7.2.3, 12.1.1, and Table 1.

Committee C09 has identified the location of selected changes to this test method since the last issue,
C 1293 – 08, that may impact the use of this test method. (Approved February 1, 2008)

(1) Revised 1.3, 5.1, 7.2.3, and 7.2.3.1. (4) Removed all informational inch-pound units throughout to
(2) Added new 12.1.13 and Note 4. conform to ASTM Form and Style.
(3) Revised Table 1.

Committee C09 has identified the location of selected changes to this test method since the last issue,
C 1293 – 06, that may impact the use of this test method. (Approved January 15, 2008)

(1) Revised 7.3.2.

ASTM International takes no position respecting the validity of any patent rights asserted in connection with any item mentioned
in this standard. Users of this standard are expressly advised that determination of the validity of any such patent rights, and the risk
of infringement of such rights, are entirely their own responsibility.

This standard is subject to revision at any time by the responsible technical committee and must be reviewed every five years and
if not revised, either reapproved or withdrawn. Your comments are invited either for revision of this standard or for additional standards
and should be addressed to ASTM International Headquarters. Your comments will receive careful consideration at a meeting of the
responsible technical committee, which you may attend. If you feel that your comments have not received a fair hearing you should
make your views known to the ASTM Committee on Standards, at the address shown below.

This standard is copyrighted by ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959,
United States. Individual reprints (single or multiple copies) of this standard may be obtained by contacting ASTM at the above
address or at 610-832-9585 (phone), 610-832-9555 (fax), or service@astm.org (e-mail); or through the ASTM website
(www.astm.org).

Copyright by ASTM Int'l (all rights reserved); Thu Apr 16 08:44:40 EDT 2009 7
Downloaded/printed by
Laurentian University pursuant to License Agreement. No further reproductions authorized.