ASTM C128

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the average density of a quantity of fine aggregate particles (not including the volume of voids between the particles), the relative density (specific gravity), and the absorption of the fine aggregate. Depending on the procedure used, the density, in kg/m³ (lb/ft³) is expressed as oven-dry (OD), saturated-surface-dry (SSD), or as apparent density. Likewise, relative density (specific gravity), a dimensionless quality, is expressed as OD, SSD, or as apparent relative density (apparent specific gravity). The OD density and OD relative density are determined after drying the aggregate. The SSD density, SSD relative density, and absorption are determined after soaking the aggregate in water for a prescribed duration.

1.2 This test method is used to determine the density of the essentially solid portion of a large number of aggregate particles and provides an average value representing the sample. Distinction is made between the density of aggregate particles as determined by this test method, and the bulk density of aggregates as determined by Test Method C 29/C 29M, which includes the volume of voids between the particles of aggregates.

1.3 This test method is not intended to be used for lightweight aggregates.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard for conducting the tests. The test results for density shall be reported in either SI units or inch-pound units, as appropriate for the use to be made of the results.

1.5 The text of this test method references notes and footnotes which provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of this test method.

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.

2. Referenced Documents

C117 Test Method for Materials Finer than 75-m (No. 200) Sieve in Mineral Aggregates by Washing
C125 Terminology Relating to Concrete and Concrete Aggregates
C127 Test Method for Density, Relative Density (Specific Gravity), and Absorption of Coarse Aggregate
C188 Test Method for Density of Hydraulic Cement
C29/C29M Test Method for Bulk Density ("Unit Weight") and Voids in Aggregate
C566 Test Method for Total Evaporable Moisture Content of Aggregate by Drying
C670 Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements for Test Methods for Construction Materials
C70 Test Method for Surface Moisture in Fine Aggregate
C702 Practice for Reducing Samples of Aggregate to Testing Size
D75 Practice for Sampling Aggregates
D854 Test Methods for Specific Gravity of Soil Solids by Water Pycnometer
AASHTO No. T 84 Specific Gravity and Absorption of Fine Aggregates

Index Terms

absorption; aggregate; apparent density; apparent relative density; density; fine aggregate; relative density; specific gravity; ICS Number Code 91.100.30; 91.100.30

Citing ASTM Standards

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