ASTM D5313/D5313M-12(2013)

1.1 This test method covers procedures for evaluating the durability of rock for erosion control when exposed to wetting and drying conditions on slabs of rock. This weathering test exposes the rock to wetting and drying cycles similar to fluctuating water levels and weather conditions. The rock slabs, prepared in accordance with procedures in Practice D5121, are intended to be representative of erosion control rock and its weaknesses. The test is appropriate for breakwater stone, armor stone, riprap and gabion sized rock materials.

The limitations of the test are twofold. First, the size of the cut rock slab specimens may eliminate some of the internal defects present in the rock structure. The test specimens may not be representative of the quality of the larger rock samples used in construction. Careful examination of the rock source and proper sampling are essential in minimizing this limitation. Secondly, the test requires the rock slabs to be exposed to 80 wetting-drying cycles. The test is time intensive and will require approximately three months to complete the sample preparation, testing, and analysis portions of the procedure.