AASHTO T 354-17 (2021) PDF Download

The AASHTO T 354-17 (2021) standard is titled "Standard Method of Test for Specific Gravity and Absorption of Aggregate by Volumetric Immersion Method." This method is used to determine the bulk specific gravity, apparent specific gravity, and absorption of both fine and coarse aggregates. The test is conducted at a temperature of 20 ± 1°C (70 ± 2°F) for both dry and saturated aggregates.

The purpose of this standard is to provide a consistent and accurate method for determining the specific gravity and absorption properties of aggregates, which are important factors in assessing the quality and suitability of aggregates for use in construction materials. Specific gravity is a measure of the density of an aggregate relative to the density of water, while absorption refers to the ability of an aggregate to absorb water.

The test is performed by immersing a known weight of the dry aggregate in water for a specified period of time to allow for saturation. After the saturation period, the aggregate is removed from the water, excess water is drained off, and the aggregate is surface-dried. The bulk specific gravity is then calculated by dividing the weight of the saturated surface-dried aggregate by the weight of an equal volume of water. The apparent specific gravity is determined by dividing the weight of the saturated surface-dried aggregate by the weight of an equal volume of gas-free distilled water. The absorption is calculated as the difference between the bulk specific gravity and the apparent specific gravity.