ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician - Grade I Practice Exam 2025 - Free Concrete Field Testing Practice Questions and Study Guide

The appropriate method for handling large aggregate in concrete, when conducting a slump test, is through wet sieving. This technique is used because it allows for the effective separation of oversized aggregate particles while minimizing the risk of aggregate segregation and dust generation. Wet sieving helps ensure that the representative sample used for the slump test reflects the actual proportions of fine and coarse materials present in the mix.

By using water, the particles are effectively agitated and can be separated based on size. This method is not only efficient but also ensures that the testing conditions remain consistent with those specified in standard testing procedures. The integrity of the slump test results is highly dependent on the correct handling of the aggregate, making wet sieving the best practice in this scenario.

In contrast, using dry sieving may not adequately consider the interaction of moisture with the aggregate, potentially leading to inaccurate sampling. Additionally, leaving the aggregate as is could result in skewed test results, while crumbling the aggregate could alter its properties, both of which can negatively impact the reliability of the slump test outcome.