What Is Mica And Why Is It So Problematic For Irish Homeowners?

Juan Pablo Osorio, Technological University Dublin

RTE Brainstorm, updated / Friday, 8 Oct 2021 15:15

Abstract

Since the early 1960s the presence of free mica on concrete aggregates has been identified as having a damaging effect on the strength and durability of concrete. This has occured in multiple countries such as England, India, Nepal, Sweden, Norway and, of course, Ireland. The adverse impact of mica has also been observed in the mechanical behaviour of asphalt concrete in countries like Finland and Sweden.