ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician - Grade I Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of sampling fresh concrete?

1. To determine its workability

2. To assess mix uniformity

3. To check compliance with specifications

4. To evaluate temperature fluctuations

The correct answer is: To check compliance with specifications

The primary purpose of sampling fresh concrete is to check compliance with specifications. Sampling allows for the collection of concrete that can be tested against established standards and specifications to ensure that it meets the required properties, such as strength, durability, and workability. This process is crucial in construction projects to confirm that the concrete mix being used is consistent with the design requirements and any regulations that govern the materials being used in the project. In practice, samples taken from fresh concrete can be used for various tests, such as strength tests on cylinders and assessments of workability and temperature. However, the overarching goal of sampling is to ensure that the concrete complies with all relevant specifications. Compliance testing safeguards the integrity of the concrete structure and helps identify potential issues before the concrete sets. Other choices like determining workability or assessing mix uniformity are components of what might be evaluated during testing, but they fall under the broader blanket of ensuring that the concrete meets specifications. In essence, while workability, uniformity, and temperature are important factors, they serve the ultimate purpose of adhering to compliance with the specifications.