AASHTO T11

Full Name

AASHTO T11 – Standard Method of Test for Materials Finer Than 75-μm (No. 200) Sieve in Mineral Aggregates by Washing

Scope

AASHTO T11 is a standard test method used to determine the amount of material finer than 75 micrometers (µm), which is equivalent to a No. 200 sieve, in mineral aggregates. This test is essential for assessing the quality and suitability of aggregates for use in construction applications, such as concrete and asphalt pavements. The presence of excessive fine materials, such as clay or silt, can adversely affect the performance and durability of these materials.

Key aspects of AASHTO T11:

  • Purpose: the primary objective of this test is to quantify the amount of fine material in an aggregate sample that passes through a No. 200 sieve when subjected to washing. This fine material typically consists of clay particles and other fine particles that can be dispersed in water.
  • Procedure: the test involves washing a known mass of the aggregate sample with water to remove the fine particles. The washing process is continued until the wash water runs clear, indicating that all the fine material has been removed. The remaining material is dried and weighed, and the percentage of material finer than 75 µm is calculated.
  • Significance: the amount of material finer than 75 µm is a critical parameter for evaluating the quality of aggregates. Excessive fine material can affect the workability, strength, and durability of concrete and asphalt mixtures. It can also influence the permeability and drainage characteristics of base and subbase materials.

Applications of AASHTO T11:

  • Aggregate quality control: the test is used by aggregate producers and construction contractors to ensure that the aggregates used in their projects meet the specified requirements and quality standards.
  • Mix design: the results of the test are used in mix design calculations to adjust the proportions of different aggregate sizes and ensure the desired properties of the concrete or asphalt mixture.
  • Performance evaluation: the test can also be used to evaluate the potential performance of aggregates in specific applications, such as determining their suitability for use in concrete pavements subjected to freeze-thaw cycles.

AASHTO T11 Accredited Laboratory

Applied Testing & Geosciences, LLC is accredited for performing tests using the AASHTO T11 standard.

Our laboratory offers comprehensive aggregate testing services, including the determination of material finer than 75 µm according to AASHTO T11. Our experienced technicians utilize standardized procedures and equipment to ensure the accuracy and reliability of our test results.

Contact us for more information.

Resources

Keywords

washing; sieve analysis; fine aggregate; no. 200 sieve; 75-μm; mineral aggregates; silt; clay; decantation; drying; mass; percentage