Alkali-Silica Reaction (ASR), often called “concrete cancer" is a destructive and irreversible defect that can turn solid structures into costly liabilities. Lance Luke, a national building expert based in Hawaii, is urging awareness and action to address this potential risk.
-- What Is Concrete Cancer (ASR)?
Concrete cancer, formally known as Alkali-Silica Reaction (ASR), occurs when silica in certain aggregates reacts with alkalis in cement in the presence of moisture. This chemical reaction produces an expansive gel that generates pressure within the concrete, leading to cracks and eventual structural failure. Over time, the damage compromises the integrity of affected structures.
“Concrete cancer spreads insidiously, much like its name suggests,” says Lance Luke, a national building expert with over 40 years of experience. “Poorly mixed concrete and moisture infiltration are the main culprits. If essential components like fly ash are missing from the mix, or if moisture seeps in, the risk of ASR increases exponentially.”
Once ASR takes hold, it is irreversible. Demolition and reconstruction are often the only viable solutions, according to Luke.
Documented Cases
ASR-related problems have been extensively documented in Central Texas, where swimming pools constructed after 2017 have shown significant cracking and deterioration. Experts attribute these issues to improper concrete mixing during construction. “It’s a harsh lesson in the importance of adhering to quality standards,” Lance explains.
Although the recent spotlight on ASR stems from issues in Texas, the phenomenon is not confined to one region or type of structure. Globally, ASR has been a significant challenge for critical infrastructure. In the United States, numerous bridges have required expensive retrofits or replacements due to ASR-induced damage. Residential and commercial buildings worldwide have also experienced structural failures linked to ASR, often due to the use of substandard materials or poor construction practices.
While Hawaii has yet to experience widespread ASR-related failures, Luke cautions against complacency. “Hawaii’s high humidity, salt-laden air, and heavy rainfall create the perfect conditions for concrete degradation,” he notes. “It’s a ticking time bomb if construction practices don’t prioritize quality.”
Why Hawaii Must Take Action
Lance Luke is urging property owners and construction professionals in Hawaii to take proactive measures to mitigate the risks of ASR. “By using high-quality materials, ensuring proper mixes tailored to local conditions, and implementing moisture controls, we can reduce the likelihood of ASR,” he says.
He stresses the importance of asking critical questions during projects: Are the materials suitable for Hawaii’s climate? Are safeguards in place to prevent moisture intrusion? These considerations, he notes, are essential for ensuring the long-term durability of structures in the state.
The Impact on Communities
The consequences of ASR extend beyond structural damage. Homeowners and property managers often face significant financial and emotional burdens when forced to demolish and rebuild.
In Texas, the issue has also sparked legal battles, with contractors and concrete suppliers facing lawsuits. Some companies have declared bankruptcy under the financial weight of these claims, highlighting the far-reaching repercussions of ASR.
A Call to Prioritize Building Standards
Concrete cancer serves as a stark reminder of the importance of quality and oversight in construction. While Hawaii has not yet faced widespread ASR problems, Lance Luke stresses that vigilance and preventive measures are crucial. “Hawaii can avoid these issues by enforcing quality standards, seeking expert guidance, and focusing on proactive strategies,” he says. “By doing so, we can safeguard both investments and communities from the devastating effects of concrete cancer.”
For more information on ASR and building safety, visit Hawaii Building Expert.
https://hawaiibuildingexpert.now.site/home
Contact Info:
Name: Lance Luke
Email: Send Email
Organization: Construction Management Inspection LLC
Address: 820 West Hind Drive Suite 240275, Honolulu, HI 96824, United States
Phone: +1-808-754-3425
Website: http://building.expert
Source: PressCable
Release ID: 89149471
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