Title:
Vacuum Saturated Absorption As Aggregate Durability Indicator
Author(s):
Gregory S. Williamson, Richard E. Weyers, David W. Mokarem, D. Stephen Lane, and Daniel D. Reid
Publication:
Materials Journal
Volume:
104
Issue:
3
Appears on pages(s):
307-312
Keywords:
aggregate; durability; soundness; vacuum saturation
DOI:
10.14359/18677
Date:
5/1/2007
Abstract:
The long-term durability of constructed concrete facilities has been of great interest to engineers for many years. To achieve a durable concrete, it is necessary to ensure that durable coarse aggregates are used. For that reason, many aggregate durability tests have been developed. Aggregate durability testing can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive process, so reducing the number of required tests can dramatically increase efficiency and reduce costs. An in-depth study was conducted that analyzed the aggregate durability testing methods used by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT). From this it was determined that much of the required testing could be eliminated for aggregates with vacuum saturated absorptions (VSAs) of less than 2%. It was found that coarse aggregates with VSAs of less than 2% need not be subjected to the following tests: micro-deval, LA abrasion, sodium sulfate soundness, and confined or unconfined freezing and thawing.