Alkali-Aggregate Reaction in Concrete Dams - Review and Recommendations

Interest in the Alkali-Aggregate (AAR) in concrete structures has increased in recent times because of the risk for dam safety and the high cost of repairs and replacements. Though this reaction does not concern dam concrete only, one of the first structures identified as affected by AAR was the Parker Dam (USA) in 1941 and an ICOLD survey in 1985 has shown the worldwide distribution of damaged dams because of AAR

The purpose of this Bulletin is to make aware those responsible for dam safety of the AAR risk and to give recommendations for minimizing this risk at the design and construction stages and adequately treating old dams which may be affected.