ASTM C311
Full Name
ASTM C311 – Standard Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Coal Ash or Natural Pozzolans for Use in Portland-Cement Concrete
Scope
ASTM C311 provides procedures for:
- Sampling: obtaining representative samples of coal ash or natural pozzolans from various sources like bulk storage, rail cars, road tankers, and silos. It specifies the sample size, frequency, and methods for collection and preservation.
- Testing: evaluating the physical and chemical properties of the sampled materials. This includes tests for:
- Fineness: determining the particle size distribution.
- Chemical composition: measuring the amounts of various elements and compounds like silicon dioxide, aluminum oxide, iron oxide, calcium oxide, magnesium oxide, sulfur trioxide, and loss on ignition.
- Strength activity index: assessing the pozzolanic activity of the material by measuring the strength development of mortar containing the pozzolan compared to a control mortar.
- Soundness: evaluating the potential for deleterious expansion due to the presence of certain constituents.
- Water requirement: determining the amount of water needed to achieve a standard flow of mortar containing the pozzolan.
The standard is applicable to both Class F and Class C coal ash, as well as raw or calcined natural pozzolans intended for use as mineral admixtures in portland-cement concrete. The test methods are conducted in a laboratory setting and are not designed to simulate job site conditions.
However, ASTM C311 does not cover:
- Specific performance requirements: the standard does not specify the acceptance criteria for coal ash or pozzolans. These criteria are typically defined in project specifications or other standards like ASTM C618.
- Field testing: the standard focuses on laboratory testing and does not provide procedures for field testing of these materials.
Overall, ASTM C311 is a crucial standard for ensuring the quality and suitability of coal ash and natural pozzolans used in concrete. It provides standardized methods for sampling and testing, allowing for the reliable evaluation of these materials and their potential impact on concrete properties and performance.
ASTM C311 Accredited Laboratory
Applied Testing & Geosciences, LLC is accredited for performing tests using the ASTM C311 standard.
Our laboratory offers comprehensive testing services based on ASTM C311. By following this standard, we provide you with reliable data to:
- Assess the suitability of coal ash or natural pozzolans for your specific concrete mix design.
- Optimize concrete performance by understanding how the supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) will influence properties like strength, workability, and durability.
- Ensure compliance with relevant building codes and project specifications for SCM utilization.
Our expertise in ASTM C311 testing empowers you to make informed decisions about incorporating SCMs into your concrete projects, leading to sustainable and high-performing structures. Contact us today to discuss your coal ash or natural pozzolan testing needs.
Resources
Keywords
coal ash; fly ash; natural pozzolan; portland cement concrete; sampling; testing; fineness; chemical composition; strength activity index; soundness; water requirement