ASTM C1701/C1701M-17a(2023) PDF

Overview

ASTM C1701/C1701M-17a(2023) is the internationally recognized standard test method for determining the field infiltration rate of in-place pervious concrete. Managed by ASTM Committee C09 on Concrete and Concrete Aggregates, this standard enables accurate assessment of how efficiently water permeates pervious concrete surfaces. The test method is essential for verifying the hydrological performance of permeable pavements designed for stormwater management, sustainable construction, and urban infrastructure.

This test method is specifically intended for pervious concrete pavements. For permeable unit pavement systems, ASTM C1781/C1781M should be used. The standard provides procedures for site selection, test setup, test execution, and reporting, ensuring reliable and consistent evaluation of infiltration rates.

Key Topics

• Localized Testing: The test measures infiltration rate only at the specific location where it is conducted. To represent the entire pavement, multiple tests at different locations should be performed and results averaged.
• Performance Monitoring: Repeated measurements at the same site over time can help detect reductions in infiltration rate, signaling the need for remediation or maintenance.
• Test Procedure: The method involves sealing an infiltration ring to the concrete surface, adding a measured amount of water, and recording the time taken for infiltration.
• Sampling Requirements: A minimum number of test locations is prescribed based on the area of the pavement to ensure adequate representation.
• Precision and Reporting: The standard specifies required reporting details such as test location, date, age and thickness of concrete, rainfall history, infiltration rate, and additional parameters for full data transparency.
• Limitations: The method does not account for the impact of sealed voids near the bottom of the concrete slab, for which visual inspection of cores is recommended.

Applications

ASTM C1701/C1701M-17a(2023) provides practical value in several key areas:

• Stormwater Management: Used by engineers and municipalities to validate pervious concrete pavements’ capacity to absorb rainwater, reducing runoff and mitigating urban flooding.
• Sustainable Building: Supports certification requirements in green construction by verifying the effectiveness of permeable surfaces.
• Pavement Maintenance: Facility managers employ this method to monitor loss of permeability over time, informing cleaning or rehabilitation actions.
• Infrastructure Compliance: Ensures new and existing pervious concrete installations comply with regional, national, or project-specific infiltration standards.
• Design Validation: Assists design engineers in confirming that as-built pervious concrete meets the intended infiltration rate based on local precipitation events.

Related Standards

• ASTM C1781/C1781M - Standard Test Method for Surface Infiltration Rate of Permeable Unit Pavement Systems. This standard is functionally similar but adapted for unit pavers and discontinuous surfaces.
• ASTM C125 - Terminology Relating to Concrete and Concrete Aggregates. Provides definitions for terms used in this standard.
• ASTM C920 - Specification for Elastomeric Joint Sealants. Cited for sealant selection.
• Federal Specification A-A-3110 (TT-P-1536A) - Plumbing Fixture Setting Compound. Used as an acceptable sealant in the testing process.

ASTM C1701/C1701M-17a(2023) is an essential tool in the assessment and long-term performance monitoring of pervious concrete for stormwater infiltration, supporting infrastructure durability and environmental best practices.