ASTM D 5873 : 2014

1.1This test method covers the testing apparatus, sampling, test specimen preparation, and testing procedures for determining the rebound hardness number of rock material using a spring-driven steel hammer, referred to variously as a rebound hammer, impact test hammer, or concrete test hammer.

1.2This test method is best suited for rock material with uniaxial compressive strengths ranging between approximately 1 and 100 MPa. Test Method D7012 provides more information on compressive strength of rock.

1.3The portable testing apparatus may be used in the laboratory or field to provide a means of rapid assessment of rock hardness or to serve as an indicator of rock hardness.

1.4Rebound hammers are available from their original manufacturers in several different energy ranges. For a given plunger tip diameter and radius of curvature, the impact energy of the rebound hammer determines its range of applicability. Accordingly, this limitation should be kept in mind when selecting a hammer type. Earlier recommendations for rock mechanics applications were only for hammers with an impact energy of 0.735 N·m, especially on smaller core samples and weaker rocks (see also Brown 1981²). This test method applies only to hammers with an impact energy not to exceed 0.735 N·m. Hammers with energies above 0.735 N·m tend to break the rock and are not recommended.

1.5Rocks exhibiting vesicular texture may be beyond the scope of this test. Care should be taken when testing such rocks and conglomerates as the rebound values will vary between testing a large piece of aggregate versus softer matrix of the conglomerate.

1.6All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D6026.

1.7For determining the rebound number of concrete, see Test Method C805/C805M.

1.8Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.9This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.