Reference library
ASTM test methods, explained
What each standard measures, when a specification calls for it, and how it is run in the field or laboratory.
ASTM C31 · Field
Making and Curing Concrete Test Specimens in the Field
Casting, initial curing, and transporting concrete cylinders on the jobsite, so the strength results later actually represent the concrete that was delivered.
ASTM C39 · Laboratory
Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens
The laboratory break test that turns field-cast cylinders into the compressive strength numbers used for acceptance, form stripping, and post-tensioning decisions.
ASTM C143 · Field
Slump of Hydraulic-Cement Concrete
The slump cone test — the fastest field check of concrete consistency and workability against the approved mix design.
ASTM C138 · Field
Density (Unit Weight), Yield, and Air Content (Gravimetric) of Concrete
Measures fresh concrete unit weight to verify yield and provide a gravimetric cross-check on air content.
ASTM C172 · Field
Sampling Freshly Mixed Concrete
Governs how a representative composite sample is taken from the truck — every downstream fresh-property and strength result depends on doing this step correctly.
ASTM C173 · Field
Air Content of Freshly Mixed Concrete by the Volumetric Method
The roll-a-meter air test, required for lightweight and porous-aggregate concrete where pressure meters read incorrectly.
ASTM C231 · Field
Air Content of Freshly Mixed Concrete by the Pressure Method
The Type B pressure meter test — the workhorse air-content check for normal-weight concrete exposed to freeze-thaw or specified air ranges.
ASTM C1064 · Field
Temperature of Freshly Mixed Hydraulic-Cement Concrete
Verifies fresh concrete temperature against hot- and cold-weather placement limits at the point of delivery.
ASTM C136 · Laboratory
Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregates
Gradation analysis that confirms aggregate meets the specified size envelope for concrete, asphalt, base, and select fill.
ASTM D698 · Laboratory
Laboratory Compaction Characteristics of Soil (Standard Proctor)
Establishes the standard-effort maximum dry density and optimum moisture content that field density tests are compared against.
ASTM D1557 · Laboratory
Laboratory Compaction Characteristics of Soil (Modified Proctor)
The modified-effort Proctor used where specifications demand higher compaction energy — typical for pavements, heavy fills, and industrial slabs.
ASTM D6938 · Field
In-Place Density and Water Content of Soil by Nuclear Methods
Nuclear gauge testing of in-place density and moisture — the acceptance test behind nearly every lift of structural fill, utility backfill, and subgrade.
ASTM D4318 · Laboratory
Liquid Limit, Plastic Limit, and Plasticity Index of Soils
Atterberg limits testing that classifies fine-grained soils and flags expansive clays before they become foundation problems.
ASTM D2216 · Laboratory
Laboratory Determination of Water (Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock
Oven-dry moisture content — the reference method behind moisture corrections in nearly every soils test.
ASTM C42 · Field + Laboratory
Obtaining and Testing Drilled Cores and Sawed Beams of Concrete
Core drilling and testing of in-place hardened concrete: used when cylinders break low or a structure's as-built strength is disputed.
ASTM C856 · Laboratory
Petrographic Examination of Hardened Concrete
Microscopic examination of hardened concrete to find the real cause of distress: alkali-silica reaction, freeze-thaw damage, sulfate attack, or too much water.
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