Aggregate Moisture Condition – Name for pores full of water but surface dry What is the correct term for aggregates whose internal pores are filled with water while the particle surfaces are dry to the touch?

Introduction / Context:
Adjusting mix water for aggregate moisture is essential to maintain the selected water–cement ratio. Knowing the standard moisture conditions of aggregates supports correct water corrections in batching.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Pore structure of aggregates can hold water internally.
• Surface condition determines whether the aggregate contributes or absorbs water from the mix.
• We identify the specific condition where pores are full but surface is dry.

Concept / Approach:
In the saturated surface dry (SSD) condition, aggregate pores are fully saturated, yet the exterior surfaces are dry. In this state, the aggregate neither absorbs mix water nor contributes free water, making it the reference condition for accurate w/c calculations.

Step-by-Step Solution:
List the canonical states: oven-dry, air-dry, SSD, and wet (surface moist).Match the description “pores full + surface dry” to SSD.Choose “Saturated surface dry aggregate”.

Verification / Alternative check:
Material standards define SSD as the condition for reporting specific gravity and absorption, underscoring its importance in mix design.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Moist (wet) aggregates have surface moisture; they add free water to the mix.
• Very dry/dry imply pores are not saturated and will absorb mix water.
• “None of these” is incorrect because SSD is the standard term.

Common Pitfalls:
Ignoring SSD corrections leads to unintended w/c variations and strength scatter; always measure moisture routinely.

Final Answer:
Saturated surface dry aggregate