Validation of Rock Testing Methods in Determination of Apparent Density

AGH University of Science and Technology, Cracow, Poland

^* Corresponding author: hydzik@agh.edu.pl

Abstract

Research on the physical properties of rock materials and aggregates used for construction should be based on standardized methods. Whereas scientific research is focused more on the development of new methods, testing and evaluation of new properties, etc. In case of own testing procedures and standardized but modified methods, they should be validated before being put into use. Validation is the confirmation of the ability to designate that method and tests its usefulness. In order to investigate the method's possibilities, the following assessment methods can be used: calibration or precision evaluation using reference standards or reference materials, systematic evaluation of factors affecting the result, resistance of the test method to variability of controlled parameters, comparison of test results obtained by various methods, inter-laboratory comparisons, and uncertainty of measurement. The paper presents mathematical formulas allowing to evaluate the precision of research methods and the consistency of results, which are the basis for validation of research methods. In the practical part of the article, own method of apparent density testing, was validated based on the analysis of repeatability, internal laboratory reproducibility and between laboratory reproducibility.