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1.1 These test methods cover the determination of the loose, uncompacted void content of a sample of fine aggregate. When measured on any aggregate of a known grading, void content provides an indication of that aggregate's angularity, sphericity, and surface texture compared with other fine aggregates tested in the same grading. When void content is measured on an as-received fine-aggregate grading, it can be an indicator of the effect of the fine aggregate on the workability of a mixture in which it may be used.

1.2 Three procedures are included for the measurement of void content. Two use graded fine aggregate (standard grading or as-received grading), and the other uses several individual size fractions for void content determinations:

1.3 The values stated in SI units shall be regarded as the standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

5.1 Test Methods A and B provide percent void content determined under standardized conditions which depend on the particle shape and texture of a fine aggregate. An increase in void content by these procedures indicates greater angularity, less sphericity, rougher surface texture, or combinations thereof. A decrease in void content results is associated with more rounded, spherical, or smooth-surfaced fine aggregate, or a combination thereof.

5.2 Test Method C measures the uncompacted void content of the minus 4.75 mm (No. 4) portion of the as-received material. This void content depends on grading as well as particle shape and texture.

5.3 The void content determined on the standard graded sample (Test Method A) is not directly comparable with the average void content of the three individual size fractions from the same sample tested separately (Test Method B). A sample consisting of single-size particles will have a higher void content than a graded sample. Therefore, use either one method or the other as a comparative measure of shape and texture, and identify which test method has been used to obtain the reported data. Test Method C does not provide an indication of shape and texture directly if the grading from sample to sample changes.

5.4 Void content information from Test Methods A, B, or C will be useful as an indicator of properties such as: the mixing water demand of hydraulic cement concrete; flowability, pumpability, or workability factors when formulating grouts or mortars; or, in bituminous concrete, the effect of the fine aggregate on stability and voids in the mineral aggregate; or the stability of the fine-aggregate portion of a base course aggregate.