Name: Aswathy Babu

Title of the project: Structural assessment of Alkali-Silica affected concrete structures

Project description

This PhD project investigates the effects of Alkali-Silica Reaction (ASR) on concrete structures through a comprehensive experimental programme. Laboratory tests under accelerated conditions will be carried out to measure the expansion of ASR-affected concrete and to establish the relationships between expansion and the associated degradation mechanisms. Importantly, the study will not only rely on laboratory-prepared specimens but will also include testing of actual core samples extracted from Norwegian concrete bridges, those are affected by ASR. The material degradtaion is mainly characterized by applying the Stiffness Damage Test (SDT).

Based on condition data, structural analyses are carried out for selected bridges,while material models for ASR-affected concrete are developed from laboratory experiments.. By combining laboratory data, field samples, and analytical modelling, the study aims to provide valuable insights to improve the strategies for maintenance, rehabilitation, and long-term durability of concrete bridges and other critical infrastructure.

Funding

MESLA project (Management and Extension of Service Life of infrastructures affected by Alkali-silica reactions), funded by the Norwegian Research Council (project no.326764). 

The project owner is NTNU while the project partners are the bridge owners: NPRA, BaneNOR (railway) and Trøndelag County; Norconsult (consultant); SINTEF community and SINTEF Narvik, and finally the universities Laval and Ottawa in Canada and Gustave Eiffel in France. 

Date of start of PhD: October 2025