Which method is used to determine if a concrete care aggregate is suitable for use?

The method of absorption tests is essential for determining the suitability of concrete coarse aggregate because it provides crucial information about the porosity and moisture content of the aggregate. This knowledge helps assess how the aggregate will perform in a concrete mix.

Absorption tests measure how much water the aggregate can retain, which is vital for understanding how the aggregate will interact with other concrete components during the mixing and curing processes. Proper moisture control is critical because excessive moisture in aggregate can lead to issues such as a weakened bond with the cement paste, reduced strength of the concrete, and potential cracking or other performance problems.

While other methods like weight measurement, surface inspection, and aggregate grading analysis can provide useful information about aggregate properties, they do not specifically assess the moisture absorption characteristics that are pivotal for ensuring durability and long-term performance in concrete applications. Therefore, conducting absorption tests is a key step in evaluating whether a concrete coarse aggregate is suitable for use.