As of 2024-2025, ACI 213R-14 remains the current active version of the guide. ACI updates documents typically every 5 to 8 years. While a revision (potentially 213R-22 or 213R-25) is likely in the pipeline to address ultra-high-performance lightweight concrete and 3D printing, 14 is still the governing standard for structural lightweight aggregate concrete.
To understand why you need this file, you must understand its anatomy. The guide is split into critical sections that define modern LWC use.
ACI 213R-14 outlines methods for proportioning mixes to achieve target strength and density. This differs from normal-weight mix design (ACI 211.1) because:
This is the most dog-eared section in any physical copy. It walks the engineer through the Trial Batch method. It addresses the unique problem of lightweight aggregate: Absorption. Because LWA is porous, it absorbs mixing water. The ACI 213R-14 guide explains the concept of "absorption and surface moisture" and warns against using too much water, which leads to segregation (the lightweight particles floating to the top).
Since the modulus of elasticity and tensile strength are different, ACI 213R-14 highlights adjustments engineers must make: aci 213r-14 pdf
To obtain the legal PDF, you have a few options:
ACI University (Free Access for Students/Faculty): If you are a student or faculty member at a university with an ACI subscription, you may be able to download it for free through your institution's library portal or the ACI University website.
Technical Libraries: University engineering libraries often have physical copies or access to the ACI Manual of Concrete Practice, which includes this standard.
Why you should use the official document: The official PDF includes essential charts, graphs, and detailed appendices regarding specific aggregate types and test data that are not included in text summaries. For construction or design purposes, always refer to the full official text. As of 2024-2025, ACI 213R-14 remains the current
ACI 213R-14: Guide to Low-Shrinkage High-Performance Concrete
The American Concrete Institute (ACI) published ACI 213R-14, a guide to low-shrinkage high-performance concrete. This report provides a comprehensive overview of low-shrinkage high-performance concrete (LSHPC), including its definition, materials, properties, and applications.
Key Points:
Benefits:
ACI 213R-14 PDF:
The ACI 213R-14 PDF document provides a detailed guide for specifying, designing, and constructing LSHPC projects. It includes information on material selection, mix design, construction practices, and testing procedures.
If you're looking for a downloadable PDF copy, you can try the following options:
Please note that availability and pricing may vary depending on your location and the source you choose. ACI University (Free Access for Students/Faculty): If you
Many professionals confuse ACI 213R with ASTM C330. Here is the simple difference:
You need both, but ACI 213R-14 provides the structural design context that ASTM lacks.