This standard (Part 4 of a series) outlines the laboratory method for determining the drying shrinkage of cellular concrete, including both autoclaved and non-autoclaved types. It covers the specifications for test specimens, apparatus, procedure for controlled drying, and the formula for calculating the percentage of shrinkage.
Specifies the method for determination of modulus of elasticity of cellular concrete.
Quick Reference Values
Standard specimen size250 x 50 x 50 mm
Number of specimens per sample3
Curing temperature27 ± 2 °C
Drying temperature50 ± 1 °C
Drying relative humidity17 ± 2 percent
Condition for constant mass< 0.2% mass change in 24 hours
Key Formulas
Drying Shrinkage (%) = [(L1 - L2) / L1] x 100 — Where L1 is initial length and L2 is final length at constant mass.
Practical Notes
Maintaining the stringent drying conditions (50 ± 1 °C and 17 ± 2% RH) is the most critical factor for achieving accurate and reproducible results.
Ensure gauge studs are firmly fixed and free of debris before each measurement to avoid errors in length reading.
The test is a long-duration test, as specimens must be dried to a constant mass, which can take several days or weeks.