ASTM D6684-18

Standard Specification for Materials and Manufacture of Articulating Concrete Block (ACB) Systems

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the standard materials composition, physical properties, structural components, manufacturing methods, and testing requirements for articulating concrete block reventment systems for use in erosion protection to underlying soil materials from flowing water forces. Articulating concrete blocks may be produced at a block plant or onsite using either wet-cast or dry-cast production techniques. Reventment cable and fittings shall be designed in such a manner as to provide adequate strength and durability characteristics to facilitate safe lifting and placing of large mattresses. The materials shall consist of aggregates and cementitious materials which shall be Portland, blended, hydrated lime, or pozzolan cements and shall conform to the physical requirements such as compressive strength, water absorption, density or unit weight, and freeze-thaw durability. The system includes a geotextile filter which shall comply to grab strength, sewn seam strength, tear strength, puncture strength, and elongation requirements. Geotextile-subsoil compatibility assessment shall include functional requirements for permeability, particle retention, and resistance to clogging. Physical property requirements for permittivity, aperture size, percent open area, and UV stability shall be based on site-specific soil characteristics, site conditions, and construction techniques.
SCOPE
1.1 The purpose of this standard is to provide specifications for articulating concrete block (ACB) revetment system structural components, material composition and physical properties, manufacturing methods and testing requirements.  
1.2 Units—The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. Reporting or use of units other than inch-pound shall not be regarded as non-conformance with this standard.  
1.2.1 The gravitational system of inch-pound units is used when dealing with inch-pound units. In the system, the pound (lbf) represents a unit of force (weight), while the units for mass is slugs. The slug unit is not given, unless dynamic (F = ma) calculations are involved.  
1.2.2 The SI units presented for apparatus are substitutions of the inch-pound units, other similar SI units should be acceptable providing they meet the technical requirements established by the inch-pound apparatus.  
1.2.3 It is common practice in the engineering/construction profession to concurrently use pounds to represent both a unit of mass (lbm) and of force (lbf). This practice implicitly combines two separate systems of units; the absolute and the gravitational systems. It is scientifically undesirable to combine the use of two separate sets of inch-pound units within a single standard. As stated, this standard includes the gravitational system of inch-pound units and does not use/present the slug unit of mass. However, the use of balances and scales recording pounds of mass (lbm) or recording density in lbm/ft3 shall not be regarded as nonconformance with this standard.  
1.2.4 The terms density and unit weight are often used interchangeably. Density is mass per unit volume, whereas unit weight is force per unit volume. In this standard, density is given only in SI units. After the density has been determined, the unit weight is calculated in SI or inch-pound units, or both.  
1.2.5 Calculations are done using only one set of units; either SI or gravitational inch-pound. Other units are permissible provided appropriate conversion factors are used to maintain consistency of units throughout the calculations, and similar significant digits or resolution, or both are maintained.  
1.3 This 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, he...

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 30-Nov-2018
• ICS: 91.100.10 - Cement. Gypsum. Lime. Mortar
• Technical Committee: D18 - Soil and Rock
• Drafting Committee: D18.25 - Erosion and Sediment Control Technology

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM D6684-04(2010) - Standard Specification for Materials and Manufacture of Articulating Concrete Block (ACB) Revetment Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2018
• Refers: ASTM C140/C140M-23a - Standard Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Concrete Masonry Units and Related Units
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM C39/C39M-23 - Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM D4833/D4833M-07(2020) - Standard Test Method for Index Puncture Resistance of Geomembranes and Related Products
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2020
• Refers: ASTM C67/C67M-19 - Standard Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Brick and Structural Clay Tile
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2019
• Refers: ASTM C150/C150M-19 - Standard Specification for Portland Cement
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM C140/C140M-18 - Standard Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Concrete Masonry Units and Related Units
• Effective Date: 15-Jul-2018
• Refers: ASTM C1262/C1262M-18 - Standard Test Method for Evaluating the Freeze-Thaw Durability of Dry-Cast Segmental Retaining Wall Units and Related Concrete Units
• Effective Date: 15-Jul-2018
• Refers: ASTM C42/C42M-18 - Standard Test Method for Obtaining and Testing Drilled Cores and Sawed Beams of Concrete
• Effective Date: 15-Mar-2018
• Refers: ASTM C67/C67M-18 - Standard Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Brick and Structural Clay Tile
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2018
• Refers: ASTM C140/C140M-17b - Standard Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Concrete Masonry Units and Related Units
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2017
• Refers: ASTM C618-17 - Standard Specification for Coal Fly Ash and Raw or Calcined Natural Pozzolan for Use in Concrete
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2017
• Refers: ASTM C39/C39M-17b - Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2017
• Refers: ASTM C140/C140M-17a - Standard Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Concrete Masonry Units and Related Units
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2017
• Refers: ASTM C595/C595M-17 - Standard Specification for Blended Hydraulic Cements
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2017

Overview

ASTM D6684-18: Standard Specification for Materials and Manufacture of Articulating Concrete Block (ACB) Systems defines requirements for the materials, manufacturing, and testing of ACB systems, widely used in erosion control applications. Specified by ASTM International, this standard ensures the durability, strength, and performance of ACB systems designed to protect soil and infrastructure from flowing water forces. The standard covers concrete block properties, geotextile filter requirements, assembly methods, and critical testing protocols, providing a reliable framework for manufacturers, designers, and end users in the civil and environmental engineering sectors.

Key Topics

• Material Composition: Specifies use of Portland, blended, hydrated lime, or pozzolanic cements, and standard-compliant aggregates.
• Physical Properties: Outlines requirements for compressive strength, unit weight (density), water absorption, and freeze-thaw durability of concrete blocks.
• Manufacturing Methods: Permits ACB production at dedicated plants or onsite using wet-cast or dry-cast techniques, with detailed sampling and testing protocols for quality assurance.
• System Components:
  • ACB Units: Must conform to strict dimensional tolerances and physical property criteria.
  • Geotextile Filter: Must comply with requirements for strength (e.g., grab strength, seam strength, tear strength, puncture strength), as well as functional performance like permeability, particle retention, and resistance to clogging.
  • Cables and Fittings: In cabled systems, cables and connections must provide sufficient strength and durability for safe handling and placement.
• Testing Requirements: Includes sampling procedures, test methods for compressive strength and physical properties, and compliance checks for ongoing production quality.

Applications

Articulating concrete block systems are critical in a variety of erosion control and soil stabilization applications, including:

• Channel and riverbank protection: ACB systems prevent undercutting, soil loss, and instability in watercourses subject to fluctuating flows.
• Shoreline reinforcement: Used along lakes, coasts, and inland waterways to protect against wave action and erosion.
• Stormwater management: Effective lining for channels, spillways, and retention basins in urban drainage projects.
• Infrastructure protection: Applied around bridge abutments, culverts, and utilities where soil stability and erosion resistance are paramount.
• Slope stabilization: Provides long-term surface protection for embankments and slopes in transportation and civil works.

The versatility of ACB systems-offering both open-cell (vegetated) and closed-cell configurations-allows for ecological integration, runoff filtration, and enhanced performance in challenging conditions.

Related Standards

• ASTM C33/C33M: Specification for Concrete Aggregates
• ASTM C39/C39M: Test Method for Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens
• ASTM C140/C140M: Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Concrete Masonry Units
• ASTM C150/C150M: Specification for Portland Cement
• ASTM C595/C595M: Specification for Blended Hydraulic Cements
• ASTM C207: Specification for Hydrated Lime for Masonry
• ASTM C331/C331M: Specification for Lightweight Aggregates for Concrete Masonry Units
• ASTM C618: Specification for Coal Fly Ash and Raw/Calcined Pozzolan
• ASTM D653: Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• ASTM D4632/D4632M: Test Method for Grab Breaking Load and Elongation of Geotextiles
• ASTM D4533/D4533M: Test Method for Trapezoid Tearing Strength of Geotextiles
• ASTM D4833/D4833M: Test Method for Index Puncture Resistance of Geomembranes

These related documents support material, testing, and installation quality, reinforcing the reliability and effectiveness of ACB systems for erosion and sediment control in accordance with ASTM D6684-18.

By adhering to ASTM D6684-18, project stakeholders ensure robust, standardized, and sustainable approaches to erosion protection using articulating concrete block revetment systems.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation:D6684 −18
Standard Specification for
Materials and Manufacture of Articulating Concrete Block
(ACB) Systems
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D6684; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope* 1.2.5 Calculations are done using only one set of units;
either SI or gravitational inch-pound. Other units are permis-
1.1 The purpose of this standard is to provide specifications
sible provided appropriate conversion factors are used to
for articulating concrete block (ACB) revetment system struc-
maintain consistency of units throughout the calculations, and
tural components, material composition and physical
similar significant digits or resolution, or both are maintained.
properties, manufacturing methods and testing requirements.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
1.2 Units—The values stated in inch-pound units are to be
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
information only and are not considered standard. Reporting or
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
use of units other than inch-pound shall not be regarded as
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
non-conformance with this standard.
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
1.2.1 The gravitational system of inch-pound units is used
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
when dealing with inch-pound units. In the system, the pound
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
(lbf) represents a unit of force (weight), while the units for
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
mass is slugs. The slug unit is not given, unless dynamic (F =
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
ma) calculations are involved.
1.2.2 The SI units presented for apparatus are substitutions
2. Referenced Documents
of the inch-pound units, other similar SI units should be
2.1 ASTM Standards:
acceptable providing they meet the technical requirements
C33/C33M Specification for Concrete Aggregates
established by the inch-pound apparatus.
C39/C39M Test Method for Compressive Strength of Cylin-
1.2.3 It is common practice in the engineering/construction
drical Concrete Specimens
profession to concurrently use pounds to represent both a unit
C42/C42M Test Method for Obtaining and Testing Drilled
of mass (lbm) and of force (lbf). This practice implicitly
Cores and Sawed Beams of Concrete
combines two separate systems of units; the absolute and the
C67/C67M Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Brick
gravitational systems. It is scientifically undesirable to com-
and Structural Clay Tile
bine the use of two separate sets of inch-pound units within a
C140/C140M Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Con-
single standard. As stated, this standard includes the gravita-
crete Masonry Units and Related Units
tional system of inch-pound units and does not use/present the
C150/C150M Specification for Portland Cement
slug unit of mass. However, the use of balances and scales
C207 Specification for Hydrated Lime for Masonry Pur-
recording pounds of mass (lbm) or recording density in lbm/ft
poses
shall not be regarded as nonconformance with this standard.
C331/C331M Specification for Lightweight Aggregates for
1.2.4 The terms density and unit weight are often used
Concrete Masonry Units
interchangeably. Density is mass per unit volume, whereas unit
C595/C595M Specification for Blended Hydraulic Cements
weight is force per unit volume. In this standard, density is
C618 Specification for Coal Fly Ash and Raw or Calcined
given only in SI units. After the density has been determined,
Natural Pozzolan for Use in Concrete
the unit weight is calculated in SI or inch-pound units, or both.
C666/C666M Test Method for Resistance of Concrete to
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil
and Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.25 on Erosion and
Sediment Control Technology. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2018. Published December 2018. Originally contact ASTM Customer service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 2001. Last previous edition approved in 2010 as D6684–04(2010). Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
DOI: 10.1520/D6684-18. the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D6684−18
Rapid Freezing and Thawing systems, between vegetated and non-vegetated systems or
C1262/C1262M Test Method for Evaluating the Freeze- betweenmethodsofmanufacturingorplacement.Furthermore,
Thaw Durability of Dry-Cast Segmental Retaining Wall the definition does not restrict or limit the block size, shape,
Units and Related Concrete Units strength, or longevity; however, guidelines and recommenda-
D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained tions regarding these factors are incorporated into this Stan-
Fluids dard. Block systems are available in either open-cell or
D4533/D4533M Test Method for Trapezoid Tearing closed-cell configurations.
Strength of Geotextiles
D4632/D4632M Test Method for Grab Breaking Load and
5. Materials and Manufacture
Elongation of Geotextiles
5.1 Materials Specifications:
D4833/D4833M Test Method for Index Puncture Resistance
5.1.1 Materials shall conform to the following applicable
of Geomembranes and Related Products
ASTM standards:
2.2 Other Documents:
Portland Cements C150/
AASHTO M 288 American Association of State Highway
C150M
Transportation Officials (AASHTO), 2017, “Standard Blended Cements C595/
C595M
Specification for Geotextiles,” , February.
Hydrated Lime Types C207
Pozzolans C618
3. Terminology
5.1.2 Aggregates shall conform to the following ASTM
3.1 For definitions of common technical terms in this
specifications, except that grading requirements shall not
standard, refer to Terminology D653.
necessarily apply:
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
Normal Weight C33/
C33M
3.2.1 articulating concrete block (ACB) system, n—a matrix
Light Weight C331/C331M
of interconnected concrete block units sufficient for erosion
5.2 Physical Properties—Atthetimeofdeliverytothework
protection, which are connected by geometric interlock and/or
site, the units shall conform to the physical requirements
cables, geotextiles, or geogrids, and typically include a geo-
prescribed in Table 1.
textile underlay for subsoil retention.
5.2.1 In addition to Table 1, when freeze-thaw durability
4. Significance and Use
testing is required, such testing shall be performed in accor-
dance withTest Methods C67/C67M, C666/C666M,or C1262/
4.1 An articulating concrete block system is comprised of a
C1262M, at the direction of the Owner. The number of
matrix of individual concrete blocks placed together to form an
freeze-thaw cycles and the corresponding weight loss criterion
erosion-resistant system with specific hydraulic performance
for pass-fail determination shall be specified by the Owner
characteristics. These systems in practice are commonly re-
along with the test method.
ferred to as ACB revetment systems. The system includes a
5.2.2 Overall dimensions for width, height, and length shall
filterlayercompatiblewiththesubsoilwhichallowsinfiltration
differ by not more than 6 ⁄8 in. (3.2 mm) from the specified
and exfiltration to occur while providing particle retention.The
standard dimensions.
filter layer may be comprised of a geotextile, properly graded
granular media, or both. The blocks within the matrix shall be
5.3 Geotextile Filter—The geotextile filter shall be in com-
dense and durable, and the matrix shall be flexible and porous.
pliance with the project specifications, in consideration of its
compatibility with the underlying soil subgrade. Minimum
4.2 Articulating concrete block systems are used to provide
strength requirements are provided in Table 2.
erosion protection to underlying soil materials from the forces
of flowing water. The term “articulating,” as used in this
NOTE 1—Strength values appearing in Table 2 taken from AASHTO
Standard, implies the ability of individual blocks of the system
M288 2017. These values were deemed acceptable by the D18.25.04
to conform to changes in subgrade while remaining intercon-
subcommittee on Block Revetments for use in this standard.
nected by virtue of geometric interlock and/or additional
5.3.1 Geotextile—Subsoil compatibility assessment shall in-
system components such as cables, ropes, geotextiles, or
clude functional requirements for permeability, particle
geogrids.
retention,andresistancetoclogging.Physicalpropertyrequire-
4.3 The definition of articulating concrete block systems ments for permittivity, aperture size, percent open area, and
does not distinguish between interlocking and non-interlocking UV stability should be based on site-specific soil
block geometries, between cable-tied and non- cable-tied characteristics, site conditions, and construction techniques.
TABLE 1 Physical Requirements
2 3 3
Minimum Compressive Strength, lb/in Maximum Water Absorption, lb/ft Minimum Unit Weight (in air), lb/ft
Average of 3 units Individual Unit Average of 3 units Individual Unit Average of 3 units Individual Unit
4,000 3,500 9.1 11.7 130 125
3 3 3 3
(27.5 MPa) (24.1 MPa) (145 kg/m ) (190 kg/m ) (2080 kg/m ) (2000 kg/m )
NOTE 1—For units p
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: D6684 − 04 (Reapproved 2010) D6684 − 18
Standard Specification for
Materials and Manufacture of Articulating Concrete Block
(ACB) Revetment Systems
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D6684; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope Scope*
1.1 The purpose of this Standardstandard is to provide specifications for articulating concrete block (ACB) revetment system
structural components, material composition and physical properties, manufacturing methods and testing requirements.
1.2 Units—The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are
mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. Reporting or use of
units other than inch-pound shall not be regarded as non-conformance with this standard.
1.2.1 The gravitational system of inch-pound units is used when dealing with inch-pound units. In the system, the pound (lbf)
represents a unit of force (weight), while the units for mass is slugs. The slug unit is not given, unless dynamic (F = ma)
calculations are involved.
1.2.2 The SI units presented for apparatus are substitutions of the inch-pound units, other similar SI units should be acceptable
providing they meet the technical requirements established by the inch-pound apparatus.
1.2.3 It is common practice in the engineering/construction profession to concurrently use pounds to represent both a unit of
mass (lbm) and of force (lbf). This practice implicitly combines two separate systems of units; the absolute and the gravitational
systems. It is scientifically undesirable to combine the use of two separate sets of inch-pound units within a single standard. As
stated, this standard includes the gravitational system of inch-pound units and does not use/present the slug unit of mass. However,
the use of balances and scales recording pounds of mass (lbm) or recording density in lbm/ft shall not be regarded as
nonconformance with this standard.
1.2.4 The terms density and unit weight are often used interchangeably. Density is mass per unit volume, whereas unit weight
is force per unit volume. In this standard, density is given only in SI units. After the density has been determined, the unit weight
is calculated in SI or inch-pound units, or both.
1.2.5 Calculations are done using only one set of units; either SI or gravitational inch-pound. Other units are permissible
provided appropriate conversion factors are used to maintain consistency of units throughout the calculations, and similar
significant digits or resolution, or both are maintained.
1.3 This 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 safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory requirementslimitations prior to use.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
C33C33/C33M Specification for Concrete Aggregates
C39/C39M Test Method for Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens
C42/C42M Test Method for Obtaining and Testing Drilled Cores and Sawed Beams of Concrete
C67C67/C67M Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Brick and Structural Clay Tile
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.25 on Erosion and Sediment
Control Technology.
Current edition approved May 1, 2010Dec. 1, 2018. Published September 2010December 2018. Originally approved in 2001. Last previous edition approved in 20042010
as D6684D6684–04(2010).–04. DOI: 10.1520/D6684-04R10.10.1520/D6684-18.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D6684 − 18
C140C140/C140M Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Concrete Masonry Units and Related Units
C150C150/C150M Specification for Portland Cement
C207 Specification for Hydrated Lime for Masonry Purposes
C331C331/C331M Specification for Lightweight Aggregates for Concrete Masonry Units
C595C595/C595M Specification for Blended Hydraulic Cements
C618 Specification for Coal Fly Ash and Raw or Calcined Natural Pozzolan for Use in Concrete
C666/C666M Test Method for Resistance of Concrete to Rapid Freezing and Thawing
C1262C1262/C1262M Test Method for Evaluating the Freeze-Thaw Durability of Dry-Cast Segmental Retaining Wall Units and
Related Concrete Units
D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
D4533D4533/D4533M Test Method for Trapezoid Tearing Strength of Geotextiles
D4632D4632/D4632M Test Method for Grab Breaking Load and Elongation of Geotextiles
D4833D4833/D4833M Test Method for Index Puncture Resistance of Geomembranes and Related Products
2.2 Other Documents:
American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO), 1995, “Standard Specification for Geotextiles,”
AASHTO Designation M 288, February.AASHTO M 288 American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials
(AASHTO), 2017, “Standard Specification for Geotextiles,” , February.
Koerner, R.M., 1998, “Designing With Geotextiles,” 4th Edition, Prentice-Hall Publishers, Englewood Cliffs, N.J. p. 761.
3. Terminology
3.1 For definitions of common technical terms in this standard, refer to Terminology D653.
3.2 Definitions:Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 articulating concrete block (ACB) revetment system, n—a matrix of interconnected concrete block units sufficient for
erosion protection. Unitsprotection, which are connected by geometric interlock and/or cables, geotextiles, or geogrids, and
typically include a geotextile underlay for subsoil retention.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 An articulating concrete block system is comprised of a matrix of individual concrete blocks placed together to form an
erosion-resistant revetmentsystem with specific hydraulic performance characteristics. These systems in practice are commonly
referred to as ACB revetment systems. The system includes a filter layer compatible with the subsoil which allows infiltration and
exfiltration to occur while providing particle retention. The filter layer may be comprised of a geotextile, properly graded granular
media, or both. The blocks within the matrix shall be dense and durable, and the matrix shall be flexible and porous.
4.2 Articulating concrete block systems are used to provide erosion protection to underlying soil materials from the forces of
flowing water. The term “articulating,” as used in this Standard, implies the ability of individual blocks of the system to conform
to changes in subgrade while remaining interconnected by virtue of geometric interlock and/or additional system components such
as cables, ropes, geotextiles, or geogrids.
4.3 The definition of articulating concrete block systems does not distinguish between interlocking and non-interlocking block
geometries, between cable-tied and non- cable-tied systems, between vegetated and non-vegetated systems or between methods of
manufacturing or placement. Furthermore, the definition does not restrict or limit the block size, shape, strength, or longevity;
however, guidelines and recommendations regarding these factors are incorporated into this Standard. Block systems are available
in either open-cell or closed-cell configurations.
5. Materials and Manufacture
5.1 Materials Specifications: Cementitious Materials—Materials shall conform to the following applicable ASTM standards:
5.1.1 Materials shall conform to the following applicable ASTM standards:
Portland Cements C150/
C150M
Blended Cements C595/
C595M
Hydrated Lime Types C207
Pozzolans C618
Portland Cements C150
Blended Cements C595
Hydrated Lime Types C207
Pozzolans C618
5.1.2 Aggregates shall conform to the following ASTM specifications, except that grading requirements shall not necessarily
apply:
D6684 − 18
Normal Weight C33/
C33M
Light Weight C331/C331M
5.2 Aggregates shall conform to the following ASTM specifications, except that grading requirements shall not necessarily
apply:
Normal Weight C33
Light Weight C331
5.2 Physical Properties—At the time of delivery to the work site, the units shall conform to the physical requirements prescribed
in Table 1.
5.2.1 In addition to Table 1, when freeze-thaw durability testing is required, such testing shall be performed in accordance with
Test Methods C67C67/C67M, C666/C666M, or C1262C1262/C1262M, at the direction of the Owner. The number of freeze-thaw
cycles and the corresponding weight loss criterion for pass-fail determination shall be specified by the Owner along with the test
method.
5.2.2 Overall dimensions for width, height, and length shall differ by not more than 6 ⁄8 1/8 in. (3.2 mm) from the specified
standard dimensions.
5.3 Geotextile Filter—The geotextile filter shall be in compliance with the project specifications, in consideration of its
compatibility with the underlying soil subgrade. Minimum strength requirements are provided in Table 2.
NOTE 1—Strength values appearing in Table 2 taken from AASHTO M288 2017. These values were deemed acceptable by the D18.25.04 subcommittee
on Block Revetments for use in this standard.
5.3.1 Geotextile—Subsoil compatibility assessment shall include functional requirements for permeability, particle retention,
and resistance to clogging. Physical property requirements for permittivity, aperture size, percent open area, and UV stability
should be based on site-specific soil characteristics, site conditions, and construction techniques. Applicable references for
conducting compatibility assessments include:include Koerner :
Koerner, R.M., 1998, “Designing With Geotextiles,” 4th Edition, Prentice-Hall Publishers, Englewood Cliffs, N.J. p. 761.
5.4 Revetment
...