Modified pycnometer method to measure the water absorption of crushed concrete aggregates
Year: 2020
Type: article
Abstract: The water absorption of crushed concrete aggregates (CCA) has a major influence on concrete workability. In order to determine the water absorption of CCA, a more porous material than natural aggregates, modifications to the standard pycnometer method are proposed as: (1) Water absorption is measured on a combined fraction CCA consisting of fine and coarse aggregates proportioned according to concrete recipe. (2) The CCA is pre-processed to mitigate sedimentation. (3) Saturated surface dry condition of aggregate is assessed by vacuum filtration and ocular technique. Water absorption development is measured at 0 min, 15 min, and 24 h. About 90% of the 24-h water absorption occurs in 15 min, value which is introduced in the concrete recipe; slump flow and compressive strength are determined. The modified pycnometer method shortens test duration, is operator insensitive and gives reliable water absorption result for CCA leading to concrete workability fitting industrial application.
Institutions: University of Borås, RISE Research Institutes of Sweden
Language: English
Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W3003290524