Developing numerical algorithm and a new program for simulating alkali aggregate reaction in mass concrete

Nowadays, Alkali Aggregate Reaction is considered as one of the most dangerous weak points of concrete and its occurrence has been widely reported in various structures. In the current study, a program is developed for predicting and examining the effects of mentioned reaction on the three-dimensional analysis of concrete structures such as arch dams. In this regard, a program provided for dam analysis is utilized applying necessary modifications on its flowchart to represent the reaction effects on the analysis procedure. The model utilized for simulating AAR is one of the comprehensive and newest models among the ones presented in various references. The deterioration of elasticity module due to the reaction is also included in the analyses, in addition to modeling concrete expansion with an excess load vector. The analyses conducted for considering the developed program capabilities indicates acceptable results so that its stability and accuracy are considered enough for long term prediction of performance of AAR-affected structures(especially concrete dams) during their service life.