What should be done to the sample container before sampling concrete?

Dampening the sample container with water before sampling concrete is important for a couple of reasons. First, it helps prevent any moisture absorption that might occur if the container is completely dry. This is crucial because a dry container could absorb water from the concrete mix, leading to inaccurate results in terms of the water-to-cement ratio. Ensuring that the container is damp allows it to remain neutral, preventing interference with the properties of the concrete being measured.

Furthermore, dampening the container can help in the process of cleaning the sides and ensures no dry particles or dust are present that could affect the sample integrity. It promotes better adhesion of the concrete sample to the container, which is vital for accurately capturing the intended concrete mix without contamination.

Overall, preparing the container by dampening it is a best practice aligned with standard sampling procedures to ensure the reliability and accuracy of the concrete properties being tested.