What does ASTM C31 provide for concrete testing?

ASTM C31 provides standardized methods for making, curing, protecting, and transporting concrete specimens for testing. This standard specifies the procedures that must be followed to ensure that concrete samples are prepared consistently and that they accurately represent the concrete being used in the field. Proper specimen preparation is crucial because it affects the accuracy and reliability of test results, particularly for compressive strength tests, which are vital for assessing the quality of concrete.

The standard outlines specific protocols for how the specimens are to be handled during the curing period to simulate field conditions and to maintain structural integrity, ultimately ensuring that the results reflect the performance of the concrete in real-world applications. This attention to detail is essential for maintaining the integrity of testing procedures and for complying with construction project specifications and regulations.