AASHTO M307
Full Name
AASHTO M307 – Standard Specification for Silica Fume Used in Cementitious Mixtures
Scope
AASHTO M307 is a standard specification that outlines the requirements for silica fume used as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM) in concrete and other cementitious mixtures. Silica fume is a byproduct of the production of silicon metal or ferrosilicon alloys, consisting of very fine amorphous silica particles. This material exhibits pozzolanic properties, reacting with calcium hydroxide in cement to form additional cementitious compounds that enhance the performance and durability of concrete.
Key aspects of AASHTO M307:
- Composition and properties: the standard specifies the physical and chemical requirements for silica fume, including silicon dioxide content, loss on ignition, specific surface area, and particle size distribution. These requirements ensure that the silica fume meets the desired performance criteria for various applications.
- Performance requirements: AASHTO M307 outlines the performance requirements for concrete and other cementitious mixtures containing silica fume, including compressive strength, permeability, and resistance to chemical attack. These requirements ensure that the mixtures meet the desired durability and performance characteristics.
- Testing methods: the standard provides standardized test procedures for evaluating the properties and performance of silica fume, ensuring consistency and reliability in quality control.
- Applications: silica fume is used in various applications, including:
- High-Performance Concrete (HPC): silica fume is a key ingredient in HPC, enhancing its strength, durability, and impermeability. This makes it suitable for structures subjected to aggressive environments or high loads.
- Shotcrete: silica fume improves the cohesiveness and adhesion of shotcrete, making it suitable for applications like tunnel linings and slope stabilization.
- Repair mortars and grouts: silica fume enhances the bond strength and durability of repair materials, making them suitable for repairing and rehabilitating concrete structures.
Significance of AASHTO M307:
- Improved concrete performance: silica fume significantly enhances the properties of concrete, making it stronger, more durable, and more resistant to chemical attack. This leads to longer service life and reduced maintenance requirements for concrete structures.
- Sustainability: utilizing silica fume as an SCM promotes sustainable construction practices by reducing the demand for Portland cement and utilizing industrial byproducts.
AASHTO M307 Accredited Laboratory
Applied Testing & Geosciences, LLC is accredited for performing tests using the AASHTO M307 standard.
Our laboratory offers comprehensive testing services for silica fume based on AASHTO M307 and other relevant standards. Our experienced technicians conduct a variety of tests to evaluate the physical and chemical properties of your silica fume, ensuring that it meets the specified requirements and contributes to the success of your construction projects.
Contact us for more information.
Resources
Keywords
silica fume; cementitious mixture; concrete; supplementary cementitious material; pozzolanic reaction; silicon dioxide; specific surface area; particle size distribution; compressive strength; permeability; chemical resistance; high-performance concrete; shotcrete; repair mortar; grout