AASHTO TP 136-20 PDF Download

AASHTO TP 136-20 is a standard method of testing used to determine the degree of saturation of hydraulic-cement concrete. The test involves measuring the mass of the specimen when it is in a dry condition and when it is fully saturated and surface-dry. By comparing these measurements, the degree of saturation can be calculated.

The test starts by conditioning the specimen in an environment with controlled temperature and humidity for a specified duration. This ensures that the moisture content of the specimen reaches equilibrium. After conditioning, the mass of the specimen is measured. Then, the specimen is completely dried in an oven and the mass is measured again. Finally, the specimen is saturated by submerging it in water and allowing it to reach a saturated, surface-dry condition. The mass of the saturated, surface-dry specimen is measured.

The degree of saturation is calculated using the formula:

Degree of Saturation = (Mass of Saturated, Surface-Dry Specimen - Mass of Oven-Dry Specimen) / (Mass of Saturated, Surface-Dry Specimen - Mass of Conditioned Specimen)

This standard method provides a quantitative measure of the degree of saturation of hydraulic-cement concrete, which is important in understanding its moisture content and the potential for moisture-related deterioration.