AASHTO T 84-13 (2021) PDF Download

The AASHTO T 84-13 (2021) standard is a method used to determine the specific gravity and absorption properties of fine aggregates. This method is applicable to fine aggregates such as sand, which are commonly used in construction materials.

The specific gravity of fine aggregate is the ratio of the mass of a given volume of the aggregate (both solids and pores) to the mass of an equal volume of distilled water at a specified temperature. The standard specifies a testing temperature of 23/23°C (73.4/73.4°F). The bulk specific gravity is determined by measuring the mass of saturated surface-dry aggregate, which is the aggregate with all pores filled with water but with the surface being free of water. The apparent specific gravity is determined by measuring the mass of the aggregate in a saturated, surface-dry condition.

The absorption of fine aggregate is the amount of water absorbed by the aggregate under specified conditions. This measurement is important as it can affect the properties and performance of the aggregate in concrete mixtures. The standard requires the aggregate to be soaked in water for 15 to 19 hours prior to measurement.

It should be noted that this AASHTO method (T 84-13) aligns with the ASTM C 128-12 standard, ensuring technical equivalence between the two methods. This allows for consistency and comparability of test results between laboratories using either AASHTO or ASTM standards.