AASHTO T23
Full Name
AASHTO T23 – Standard Method of Test for Making and Curing Concrete Test Specimens in the Field
Scope
AASHTO T23 is a standardized procedure developed by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) that outlines the methods for creating and curing concrete test specimens in field conditions. These specimens are crucial for assessing the quality and properties of concrete used in construction projects. The standard ensures that the specimens are representative of the in-situ concrete and are properly prepared for subsequent laboratory testing.
The primary purpose of AASHTO T23 is to establish a uniform and reliable methodology for making and curing concrete test specimens on construction sites. This consistency allows for accurate comparison of test results across different projects and ensures that the concrete meets the required performance standards.
AASHTO T23 covers the procedures for making and curing both cylindrical and beam specimens. It specifies the materials, equipment, and techniques to be used, including:
- Mold selection: choosing appropriate molds based on the desired specimen size and shape.
- Sample collection: obtaining representative samples of fresh concrete from the construction site.
- Specimen preparation: filling molds, consolidating concrete, and finishing surfaces.
- Initial curing: protecting specimens from moisture loss and temperature fluctuations during the first 24-48 hours.
- Transportation: safely transporting specimens to the laboratory for further curing and testing.
- Laboratory curing: maintaining specific temperature and humidity conditions for the remaining curing period.
Adherence to AASHTO T23 is essential for quality control in construction projects. Properly prepared and cured specimens allow for accurate determination of concrete properties such as compressive strength, flexural strength, and durability. This data is critical for verifying that the concrete meets the design specifications and performance requirements, ensuring the safety and longevity of the constructed structures.
AASHTO T23 Accredited Laboratory
Applied Testing & Geosciences, LLC is accredited for performing tests using the AASHTO T23 standard.
Contact us for more information.
Resources
Keywords
concrete; specimens; curing; molds; sampling; consolidation; temperature; humidity; field testing; laboratory testing; compressive strength; flexural strength; durability