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In the ever-evolving world of construction materials testing, the introduction of new standards can significantly impact industry practices. One such development is the AASHTO R 119 standard, officially titled “Standard Practice for Grinding the Ends of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens.” This standard, which has now moved from a provisional to a full standard, is set to play a crucial role in the construction materials testing industry, particularly for those working with concrete.

The Need for AASHTO R 119

Traditional methods like using pad caps, sulfur capping, or gypsum capping are insufficient for Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) due to its high strength. Instead, UHPC requires the ends of cylindrical specimens to be ground to a precise planeness of 0.002 inches before testing for compressive strength. This necessity led to the development of AASHTO R 119, which standardizes the grinding process, ensuring consistency and reliability in test results.

Development and Collaboration

Brian Johnson, a key figure in the creation of AASHTO R 119, shared insights into the collaborative efforts that brought this standard to life. The development process involved contributions from various state Departments of Transportation (DOTs), including Florida and Texas, which have experience with grinding cylinder ends. The consensus-driven approach of AASHTO ensured that the standard was refined and improved through valuable feedback from these stakeholders.

Relevance to Concrete Testing Laboratories

For those in the construction materials testing industry, AASHTO R 119 offers a standardized method for preparing concrete specimens, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of test results. This standard is particularly relevant for laboratories seeking accreditation, as it provides a clear and consistent practice that can be referenced in other key standards such as AASHTO T 24, ASTM C31, and ASTM C39.

Integration and Future Prospects

The adoption of AASHTO R 119 is not limited to AASHTO standards alone. Efforts are underway to integrate this practice into ASTM standards, including ASTM C39 and C1077, which currently allow for capping and use of pad caps but not grinding. By promoting the inclusion of AASHTO R 119 in various standards, the goal is to provide laboratories with the flexibility to choose the most appropriate method for their specific needs.

Conclusion

The introduction of AASHTO R 119 marks a significant advancement in the standardization of concrete specimen preparation. By addressing the unique requirements of UHPC and providing a reliable method for grinding specimen ends, this standard enhances the quality and consistency of construction materials testing.

For more information on AASHTO R 119 and its implications for your laboratory, be sure to check out the latest episode of AASHTO Resource Q&A. Stay tuned for future updates as we continue to explore the standards shaping the future of construction materials testing.