This test method is intended to give a relatively rapid indication of the potential expansive reactivity of certain carbonate rocks that may be used as concrete aggregates. The test method has been successfully used in (1) research and (2) preliminary screening of aggregate sources to indicate the presence of material with a potential for deleterious expansion when used in concrete.

The test method is intended as a research and screening method rather than as the basis of a specification requirement. It is intended to supplement data from field service records, petrographic examinations according to Guide C295, and tests of aggregate in concrete according to Test Method C1105.

Alkalies participating in the expansive reactions with aggregate constituents in concrete usually are derived from the hydraulic cement; under certain circumstances they may be derived from other constituents of concrete or from external sources. Two types of alkali reactivity of aggregates are recognized: (1) alkali-silica reaction involving certain siliceous rocks, minerals, and artificial glasses, and (2) alkali carbonate reaction involving dolomite in certain calcitic dolomites, dolomitic limestones, and dolostones. This test method is not suitable as a means to detect alkali-silica reaction.

1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the expansion of a specimen of carbonate rock while immersed in a solution of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) at room temperature. The length changes occurring during such immersion indicate the general level of reactivity of the rock and whether tests should be made to determine the effect of aggregate prepared from the rock upon the volume change in concrete.

1.2 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.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

2. Referenced Documents (purchase separately) The documents listed below are referenced within the subject standard but are not provided as part of the standard.

ASTM Standards

C294 Descriptive Nomenclature for Constituents of Concrete Aggregates

C295 Guide for Petrographic Examination of Aggregates for Concrete

C1105 Test Method for Length Change of Concrete Due to Alkali-Carbonate Rock Reaction

D75 Practice for Sampling Aggregates

D1248 Specification for Polyethylene Plastics Extrusion Materials for Wire and Cable

E177 Practice for Use of the Terms Precision and Bias in ASTM Test Methods

Keywords

aggregate; alkali reactivity; carbonate rocks; concrete; deleterious expansion: Aggregate (potential alkali reactivity); Carbonate aggregates; Cement-aggregate combinations; Rock materials/properties/analysis;

ICS Code

ICS Number Code 91.100.30 (Concrete and concrete products)

Citing ASTM Standards

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