AASHTO M6
Full Name
AASHTO M6 – Standard Specification for Fine Aggregate for Hydraulic Cement Concrete
Scope
AASHTO M6 is a standard specification that outlines the requirements for fine aggregate used in hydraulic cement concrete for various applications, including pavements, bases, bridges, and other structures. Fine aggregate, typically sand, is a crucial component of concrete, influencing its workability, strength, durability, and overall performance.
Key aspects of AASHTO M6:
- Grading: the standard specifies the acceptable particle size distribution (gradation) of fine aggregate. It defines the permissible percentages of material passing through a series of sieves with different opening sizes. The grading requirements ensure that the aggregate has a well-balanced distribution of particle sizes, promoting optimal packing and minimizing voids in the concrete.
- Composition: AASHTO M6 addresses the composition of fine aggregate, including requirements for the types of minerals and rocks that can be used. It also sets limits on deleterious substances, such as clay lumps and organic impurities, which can negatively impact the concrete’s properties.
- Soundness: the standard specifies requirements for the soundness of fine aggregate, which refers to its resistance to weathering and degradation. Soundness testing ensures that the aggregate will not break down or deteriorate over time, compromising the concrete’s integrity.
- Other properties: AASHTO M6 also addresses other properties of fine aggregate, such as its specific gravity, absorption, and abrasion resistance. These properties are important for evaluating the aggregate’s suitability for different applications and its potential impact on the concrete’s properties.
Significance of AASHTO M6:
- Quality control: by adhering to AASHTO M6, aggregate producers can ensure the quality and consistency of their fine aggregate products. This is crucial for producing high-quality concrete that meets the desired performance specifications and durability standards.
- Performance optimization: the standard provides guidelines for selecting and blending different types of fine aggregates to optimize the concrete’s properties for specific applications.
- Standardized testing: AASHTO M6 outlines standardized test methods for evaluating the properties of fine aggregate, ensuring reliable and comparable results for quality control and performance assessment.
AASHTO M6 Accredited Laboratory
Applied Testing & Geosciences, LLC is accredited for performing tests using the AASHTO M6 standard.
Our laboratory offers comprehensive testing services for fine aggregate based on AASHTO M6 and other relevant standards. Our experienced technicians conduct a variety of tests to assess the grading, composition, soundness, and other properties of your fine aggregate, ensuring that it meets the specified requirements and contributes to the success of your concrete projects.
Contact us for more information.
Resources
Keywords
fine aggregate; sand; concrete; grading; sieve analysis; fineness modulus; deleterious substances; soundness; durability; absorption; specific gravity