New ASTM standard provides specification for segmental concrete paving slabs

W. Conshohocken, Pa. — A new ASTM International standard supports the growing use of concrete paving slabs for commercial and residential projects. The new specification (C1782/C1782M, Specification for Utility Segmental Concrete Paving Slabs) determines the minimum flexural strength, dimensional tolerances, and freeze-thaw durability requirements for paving slabs with dimensions ranging from 12 inches by 12 inches to 48 inches by 48 inches.

“There have been some notable paving slab failures over the years in part due to poor pavement design and also lack of product standards,” said ASTM member David R. Smith, Technical Director at the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute. “C1782 provides a baseline acceptance standard using any of three manufacturing processes: dry cast, wet cast, and hydraulically pressed.”

According to Smith, the standard fills a gap for these products. Due to their larger size, paving slabs do not fall under the existing ASTM standard for interlocking concrete paving units (C936). C1782 now provides a set of requirements that producers can meet which uses familiar ASTM terms and references. The standard was developed by paving slab manufacturers, material suppliers, testing labs, and other experts in ASTM International’s Committee on Manufactured Masonry Units (C15).

Architects, civil engineers, and landscape architects will benefit most from the specification, using it when writing construction specifications. Paving slab manufacturers will use the standard to promote products that meet or exceed its requirements. The standard will also give concrete testing labs the opportunity to provide an additional service in testing paving slabs.

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