The measured or calculated equilibrium density of structural lightweight concrete determines whether specified density requirements have been met. Unless otherwise specified, determine equilibrium density by calculation using the procedures in 9.2.

Test Method C138/C138M shall be used to determine the density of freshly mixed lightweight concrete for compliance with concrete placement specifications.

Note 1—The fresh density of lightweight aggregate concrete is a function of mixture proportions, air content, water demand, and the specific density and moisture content of the lightweight aggregate. Decrease in density of a specific lightweight concrete is due to moisture loss that, in turn, is a function of aggregate moisture content, ambient conditions, and the ratio of the surface area to the volume of the concrete member. For most structural lightweight concretes, equilibrium density is approached at about 90 days. For most high-strength lightweight concretes, equilibrium density is approached at about 180 days. Extensive tests demonstrate that despite variations in the initial moisture content of lightweight aggregate, the equilibrium density will be approximately 50 kg/m³ [3.0 lb/ft³] greater than the oven-dry density.

1. Scope

1.1 This test method provides procedures to determine the oven-dry and equilibrium densities of structural lightweight concrete.

1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard. Some values have only SI units because the inch-pound equivalents are not used in practice.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. ^REFERENCE:

ASTM Standards:

C31/C31M Practice for Making and Curing Concrete Test Specimens in the Field

C88 Test Method for Soundness of Aggregates by Use of Sodium Sulfate or Magnesium Sulfate

C125 Terminology Relating to Concrete and Concrete Aggregates

C138/C138M Test Method for Density (Unit Weight), Yield, and Air Content (Gravimetric) of Concrete

C172 Practice for Sampling Freshly Mixed Concrete

C192/C192M Practice for Making and Curing Concrete Test Specimens in the Laboratory

C470/C470M Specification for Molds for Forming Concrete Test Cylinders Vertically

E104 Practice for Maintaining Constant Relative Humidity by Means of Aqueous Solutions

Keywords

equilibrium density; lightweight concrete; oven-dry density;

ICS Code

ICS Number Code 91.100.30 (Concrete and concrete products)

Citing ASTM Standards

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