Withdrawal of C586-19 Standard Test Method for Potential Alkali Reactivity of Carbonate Rocks as Concrete Aggregates (Rock-Cylinder Method)
Rationale
This standard is being balloted for withdrawal with no replacement becauseThis standard is being balloted for withdrawal with no replacement because Test Method C586 does not serve a clear or reliable means of predicting alkali-carbonate (ACR) reaction in concrete aggregates. The ‘Interpretation of Results’ section lacks specific guidance and acknowledges the test method should not be used as the sole reason to accept or reject aggregate sources and instead references Test Method C1105 for further testing. Based on a member poll, it appears the test is not commonly performed. When the test is performed, it is solely to fulfill a project specification requirement that lacks defined acceptance criteria, showing a general lack of understanding of the method’s purpose and limitations. Members also indicated that the test samples more commonly exhibit shrinkage rather than expansion. Additionally, the standard itself states that ‘the test method is intended as a research and screening method rather than as the basis of a specification requirement.’ Moreover, the test’s duration is unclear (there are references to measurements at various weeks, months, and beyond 1-year), and the relation between test duration and expansion is not addressed. Given these limitations, lack of clear interpretations, inconsistent application, limited practical use, and the availability of a more definitive test method (Test Method C1105), Test Method C586 is balloted for withdrawal with no replacement.
Work Item Status
Date Initiated: 11-04-2025
Technical Contact: Bruno Fong-Martinez