ASTM C260
Full Name
ASTM C260 – Standard Specification for Air-Entraining Admixtures for Concrete
Scope
ASTM C260 outlines the requirements for air-entraining admixtures used in concrete. These admixtures are chemical compounds added to concrete during mixing to create and stabilize microscopic air bubbles, improving the concrete’s durability and resistance to freeze-thaw cycles.
The scope of ASTM C260 includes:
- Materials: the standard applies to all types of air-entraining admixtures, regardless of their chemical composition or physical form (liquid, powder, or paste).
- Requirements: it specifies the performance requirements for air-entraining admixtures, including:
- Air content: the ability of the admixture to entrain a specific amount of air in concrete.
- Uniformity: the consistency of air content produced by the admixture in different batches of concrete.
- Bleeding: the effect of the admixture on the bleeding (separation of water) of concrete.
- Strength: the impact of the admixture on the compressive and flexural strength of concrete.
- Length change: the influence of the admixture on the shrinkage and expansion of concrete.
- Freezing and thawing resistance: the ability of the admixture to improve the concrete’s resistance to freeze-thaw damage.
- Sampling and testing: it outlines the procedures for sampling and testing air-entraining admixtures to ensure compliance with the specified requirements.
- Acceptance criteria: it establishes the criteria for accepting or rejecting air-entraining admixtures based on the test results.
ASTM C260 does not cover:
- Specific dosage rates: the standard does not specify the exact dosage rates for air-entraining admixtures, as these may vary depending on the specific admixture and the concrete mix design.
- Non-air-entraining properties: the standard focuses on the air-entraining properties of admixtures and does not address other properties, such as water reduction or set retardation.
Overall, ASTM C260 is a crucial standard for ensuring the quality and performance of air-entraining admixtures used in concrete. It provides a standardized framework for evaluating and selecting suitable admixtures to enhance the durability and freeze-thaw resistance of concrete in various applications.
ASTM C260 Accredited Laboratory
Applied Testing & Geosciences, LLC is accredited for performing tests using the ASTM C260 standard.
Our laboratory offers comprehensive testing services in accordance with ASTM C260. With our expertise and modern equipment, we can accurately assess the properties of your product and provide valuable insights to optimize its performance. Contact us today to learn more about our air-entraining admixture testing capabilities.
Resources
Keywords
air-entraining admixture; concrete; air content; bleeding; strength; length change; freezing and thawing; uniformity