Identifying Incompatible Combinations of Concrete Materials: Volume II—Test Protocol

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FOREWORD

Unexpected interactions between otherwise acceptable ingredients in portland cement concrete are becoming increasingly common as cementitious systems become more complex and demands on the systems are more rigorous. Such incompatibilities are exhibited as early stiffening or excessive retardation, potential for uncontrolled early-age cracking, and unstable or unacceptable air void systems.

The protocol in this volume was developed to allow product manufacturers, concrete producers, contractors, and owners to monitor their materials and concrete systems. The protocol has two phases: relatively simple field tests to provide early warnings of potential problems, and central laboratory tests to support and confirm the field work. Tests conducted before construction begins help users to plan for materials and environment changes. By monitoring materials with relatively simple field tests during construction, the users can detect when significant changes have occurred, indicating potential construction problems.

Gary Henderson
Director, Office of Infrastructure
Research and Development

Notice

This document is disseminated under the sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Transportation in the interest of information exchange. The U.S. Government assumes no liability for the use of the information contained in this document. This report does not constitute a standard, specification, or regulation.

The U.S. Government does not endorse products or manufacturers. Trademarks or manufacturers’ names appear in this report only because they are considered essential to the objective of the document.