Lab Services: Aggregate testing

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Test Method Title

Soundness of Aggregate by Use of Sodium Sulfate or Magnesium Sulfate

Reference Number

AASHTO T 104

Material

Aggregate

Test Property

Soundness Durability

Description of Test

The washed, dry aggregate sample is separated into a series of particle size fractions (e.g., 3/8" to 3/4"). Each fraction is submerged in a saturated solution of sodium or magnesium sulfate (depending upon project specifications) for 16-18 hours. The fractions are then dried to constant weight. The process is then repeated for the specified number of cycles (per project specifications). The fractions are then washed, dried and weighed. The percent loss is then reported.

Preferred Test Sample Size

Number of Test Specimens

1

Test Specimen Size

Typically, about 4 kg, but determined from aggregate size and gradation

Keywords

Soundness, Sodium, Sulfate, Magnesium, Durability