Alkali-Silica Reaction (ASR) and Mitigation Methods for Addressing the Negative Durable Impact in Glass-mix Concrete: A Comprehensive Review

Material scarcity and environmental concerns have strengthened interest in waste glass utilization in concrete, offering enhanced mechanical properties through pozzolanic reactions. However, the high reactivity of glass waste presents significant durability challenges through the Akali-Silica Reaction (ASR). This comprehensive review systematically analyzes ASR development mechanisms in glass-mixed concrete, evaluating the influence of particle size, glass content, and colour on ASR susceptibility. Critical findings reveal that particle size emerges as the primary ASR susceptibility factor, with fine particles (<300 μm) exhibiting beneficial pozzolanic behavior while coarse particles (>1 mm) demonstrating high reactivity. Glass colour significantly influences ASR potential, with chromium-rich green and brown glasses showing superior resistance compared to clear glass due to modified chemical composition. Increased glass content correlates with enhanced ASR risk, though fine glass particles (<100 μm) can mitigate these effects through pozzolanic reactions. Mitigation strategies demonstrate varying effectiveness: pozzolanic materials show superior performance with silica fume (10% replacement) > fly ash (30%) > Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBFS) (60%), effectively limiting alkalinity and controlling moisture availability. Chemical inhibitors using lithium/aluminum compounds modify ASR gel composition, while mechanical reinforcement through steel fibers and rubber particles reduces post-ASR internal stresses. Despite promising mitigation approaches, significant knowledge gaps persist in long-term performance data, scale-dependent behavior understanding, and standardized testing protocols. Future research must prioritize predictive model development, protocol standardization, and comprehensive field validation studies. Successful glass waste integration requires systematic research, bridging laboratory findings with field performance requirements, while ensuring structural durability and safety.