FDOT Asphalt Paving Level 1 Practice Test 2025 – Complete Exam Prep

To achieve the SSD (saturated surface dry) weight of a core sample, it is essential to minimize water absorption and ensure that the sample is representative of the material's moisture condition. The correct procedure indicates that the core should be rolled within five seconds after immersion in water. This brief time frame helps to remove excess water from the surface of the sample without allowing significant water to soak into the core itself.

Rolling the core sample promptly eliminates excess surface moisture, which could compromise the accuracy of the SSD weight measurement. It is critical in ensuring that the moisture content reflects the true condition of the sample as it would be used in the field.

If the sample is not rolled quickly, it can absorb more water, resulting in inaccurate weight measurements when determining the SSD condition. Maintaining this immediate activity ensures that the sample retains its intended state for proper assessment during testing.