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Description: The issues related to delayed ettringite formation (DEF) have received much attention since this particular concrete deterioration process was first reported. Despite many attempts to develop a fundamental understanding, the mechanism involved is still unclear and remains controversial. A large number of literature sources dealing with various aspects of this phenomenon are currently available, but such information is scattered and discrepancies in interpretation may lead to further confusion. The literature review presented here aims to present each aspect of DEF-related issues in a comprehensive manner to help readers develop an overview. The text comprises two major sections. The first part reveals the work performed to date, including ongoing controversies and discrepancies associated with DEF-related expansion. The second part focuses on various factors that control the expansive behavior and their mutual relationships. Throughout the text, the combined influence of the physical and chemical characteristics is the main emphasis. This review highlights the basic, essential concept that has been missing in previous approaches, i.e. the influence of physical changes and their relation to chemical reactions. This report is also found on DVD021.
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