I.

GENERAL DISCUSSION

1. Introduction:

Aggregates of different sizes are being used as a natural filler in concrete and road construction.
Aggregates should be durable, strong, tough, well graded and free from harmful ingredients. For
these reasons, testing of aggregate is important. As an example, if aggregates are weak, then
whatever the quality of cement/mix-proportion/water-cement ratio/compaction/curing, etc., the
concrete will also be weak. Similarly, for durable road surface/wearing course in addition to other
factors the aggregates must have proper resistance against abrasion. Various topics related to
aggregates, specification, testing, etc. have been described in the subsequent articles.

2. General Description of Particle Size:

Aggregates which are larger than ASTM #4 sieve or 4.75 mm are coarse aggregates and size 4.75
mm to 0.075 mm (retained on ASTM #200 sieve) are fine aggregates or Sand as per ASTM (but
according to AASHTO the demarcation line between Sand and Gravel is #10 sieve or 2.00 mm).
Coarse aggregates may contain even particles such as rock fragments. However a good fine or
coarse aggregate should contain particles ranging from larger to smaller size to give a satisfactory
gradation.

Note: Pea Gravels are particles ranging from 9.5 mm or 3/8 inch to 2.36 mm or 0.093 inch (ASTM #8 sieve). Gravels
are particles passing 75 mm sieve but are retained on 4.75 mm sieve (No. 4 sieve).

3. Field Testing of Aggregates:

3.1 Several type of field testing of aggregates are described below, mainly for aggregates used in
concrete. However, field testing only gives a rough idea, and it is not a supplement to detailed
laboratory testing.

3.2 In controlling the quality of aggregates it is important to ensure that the aggregates are clean and
do not contain any organic impurities which might retard or prevent the setting of cement.

Cleanness can be assessed visually, though for natural sands the field settling test will give an
approximate guide to the presence of the amount of clay or silt (known as sedimentation test). The
test entails placing about 50 ml of a 1% solution of common salt in water (roughly one slightly
heaped teaspoonful per pint) in a 250 ml measuring cylinder. Sand as received is then added
gradually until the level of the top of the sand is at the 100 ml mark and more solution is added to
bring the liquid level to the 150 ml mark. The cylinder is shaken vigorously and the contents
allowed to settle for three hours. The thickness of the silt layer which settles above the sand is then
measured and expressed as a percentage of the height of the sand below the layer. The amount of
clay and silt in the sand may be considered acceptable if it does not exceed 8% in some
specification. If a measuring cylinder is not available, a jam jar or bottle filled to a depth of 50mm
with sand and to a total depth of 75 mm with the salt solution will give comparable results if the
contents are allowed to settle for three hours. The thickness of the silt layer in this case should not
be more than 3 mm.

33
Aggregates
The field settling test gives only an approximate guide. Sands apparently containing more than 8%
of clay or fine silt cannot comply with the specification and further laboratory tests should be done
to assess their suitability.

3.3 There is no suitable site test for the cleanness of coarse aggregates and reliance is usually placed
upon the grading analysis to show whether there is an excess of fine dust in the material. Problems
arise, however, because of the tendency for fine dust to adhere to the rough surface of crushed
coarse aggregates.

It is important to ensure that aggregate particles are not coated with clay and that lumps of clay are
not mixed in with the aggregate. The presence of clay indicates that the aggregates have not been
washed adequately before delivery or the aggregates have subsequently become contaminated after
delivery. However, another field test are described below for rough estimation.

3.4 Test for Vegetable Matter:

- Take a straight sided glass jar and give 130cc and 200cc mark on it.
- Fill the jar with sand to be tested up to 130cc mark.
- Add 3% solution of caustic soda until 200cc mark is reached.

Shake the bottle thoroughly, as soon as the solution of caustic soda is added and allow the mixture
to stand for 24 hours.

Note the colour of the liquid above the sand as follows:

- If colourless, the sand is free from vegetable matter.

- If straw coloured, this indicates the presence of some vegetable matter, but not enough to seriously
objectionable.
- If dark coloured, the sand contains objectionable quantity of vegetable matter, and should not be
allowed to use without washing.

3.5 Other Tests for Impurities:

Rub a little sand between fingers. Stains left on the fingers will indicate the presence of undesirable
clay impurities. Accurate content of silt & clay may be determined by wet sieving in the laboratory.
 II. STANDARD PRACTICE (ASTM D 75)
FOR SAMPLING AGGREGATES

1. Scope:

This practice covers sampling of coarse and fine aggregates for:

- Preliminary investigation of the potential source of supply

- Control of the product at the source of supply
- Control of the operations at the site of use and
- Acceptance or rejection of the materials

2. Significance and Use:

Sampling is equally as important as the testing, and the sampler shall use every precaution to obtain
samples that will show the nature and condition of the materials which they represent. Samples for
tests to be used in acceptance or rejection decisions by the purchaser are obtained by the purchaser
or his authorised representative.

3. Securing Samples:

Where practicable, samples to be tested for quality shall be obtained from the finished product. The
seller shall approve suitable equipment needed for proper inspection and sampling.

4. Procedure:

4.1 Sampling from Stockpiles

Avoid sampling coarse aggregate or mixed coarse and fine aggregate from stockpiles whenever
possible, particularly when the sampling is done for the purpose of determining aggregate properties
that may be dependent upon the grading of the sample. If circumstances make it necessary to obtain
samples from a stockpile of coarse aggregate or a stockpile of combined coarse and fine aggregate,
design a sampling plan for the specific case under consideration. This approach will allow the
sampling agency to use a sampling plan that will give a confidence in results obtained therefrom that
is agreed upon by all parties concerned to be acceptable for the particular situation. The sampling
plan shall define the number of samples necessary to represent lots and sub-lots of specific sizes. For
general guidance in sampling from stockpiles, see the Appendix-I.

4.2 Sampling from Roadway (Bases and Sub-bases)

Sample by a random method, from the construction site. Obtain at least three approximately equal
increments (quantity), selected at random from the unit being sampled, and combine to form a field
sample whose mass equals or exceeds the minimum recommended in table 3.1. Take all
increments (quantity) from the roadway for the full depth of the material, taking care to exclude
any underlying material. Clearly mark the specific are as from which each increment is to be
removed; a metal template placed over the area is a definite aid in securing approximately equal
increment weights (quantity).
Aggregates
5. Number and Masses of Field Samples:

5.1 The number of field samples required (obtained by the methods described earlier), depends on
the variation in the properties to be measured. The number of field samples from the production
should be sufficient to give the desired confidence in test results.

5.2 The masses must be predicated on the type and number of tests to which the material is to be
subjected and sufficient material obtained to provide for the proper execution of these tests.
Standard acceptance and control tests are covered by ASTM standards and specify the portion of the
field sample required for each specific test. Generally speaking, the amounts specified in Table will
provide adequate material for routine grading and quality analysis. Extract test portions from the
field sample as required by the specific test methods.

6. Shipping Samples:

6.1 Transport aggregates in bags or other containers so constructed as to preclude loss or

contamination of any part of the sample, or damage to the contents from mishandling during
shipment.

6.2 Shipping containers for aggregate samples shall have suitable individual identification attached
and enclosed so that field reporting, laboratory logging, and test reporting may be facilitated.

Table 3.1: Size of Samples

Maximum Nominal Size of Approximate Minimum Mass
of
Aggregates (A) Field Samples (B)
kg (Ib.)
Fine Aggregate
2.36 mm (No.8) 10 (25)
4.75mm (No.4) 10 (25)
Coarse Aggregate

9.5 mm (3/8 in.) 10 (25)

12.5 mm (1/2 in.) 15 (35)
19.0 mm (3/4 in.) 25 (55)
25.0 mm (1in.) 50 (110)
37.5 mm (1.5 in.) 75 (165)
50 mm (2 in.) 100 (220)
63 mm (2.5 in.) 125 (275)
75 mm (3 in.) 150 (330)
90 mm (3.5 in.) 175 (385)
NOTE: - The maximum nominal size of particles is the largest sieve size listed in the applicable specification, upon
which any material is permitted to be retained.
- For combined coarse and fine aggregates (for example, base or sub-base course material of road) minimum
eight shall be coarse aggregate minimum plus 10 Kg (25 lb.).
 APPENDIX - I
SAMPLING AGGREGATE FROM STOCKPILES OR TRANSPORTATION
UNITS AND FEW FUNDAMENTAL DEFINITIONS

1. Scope:

In some situations it is mandatory to sample aggregates that have been stored in stockpiles or loaded
into rail cars, barges or trucks. In such cases the procedure should ensure that segregation does not
introduce a serious bias in the results.

2. Sampling from Stockpiles:

In sampling material from stockpiles it is very difficult to ensure unbiased samples, due to the
segregation which often occurs when material is stockpiled, with coarser particles rolling to the
outside base of the pile. For coarse or mixed coarse and fine aggregate, every effort should be made
to develop a separate, small sampling pile composed of materials drawn from various levels and
locations in the main pile after which several increments may be combined to compose the field
sample.

Samples from stockpiles should be made up of at least three increments taken from the top third, at
the mid-point and at the bottom third of the volume of the pile. A board shoved vertically into the
pile just above the sampling point aids in preventing further segregation. In sampling stockpiles of
fine aggregate, the outer layer, which may have become segregated, should be removed and the
sample taken from the material beneath. Sampling tubes, approximately 30 mm (1.25 in.) min.
diameter by 2 m (6 ft) min. length, may be inserted into the pile at random locations to extract a
minimum of five increments of materials to form the sample.

3. Descriptions of Terms:

Field sample: a quantity of the material to be tested of sufficient size to provide an acceptable
estimate of the average quality of a unit.

Lot: a sizeable isolated quantity of bulk material from a single source, assumed to have been
produced by the same process (for example, a day's production or a specific mass or volume).

Test portion: a quantity of the material of sufficient size extracted from the larger field sample by a
procedure designed to ensure accurate representation of the field sample and thus of the unit
sampled.

Unit: a batch or finite subdivision of a lot of bulk material (for example, a truck load or a specific
area covered).

4. Test Unit, Size and Variability:

The unit to be represented by a single field sample should neither be so large as to mask the effects
of significant variability within the unit nor be so small as to be affected by the inherent variability
between small portions of any bulk material.

Significant variability with a lot of material, where it might exist, should be indicated by statistical
measures, such as the standard deviation between units selected at random from within the lot.
 III. STANDARD PRACTICE (ASTM C 702) FOR REDUCING
FIELD SAMPLES OF AGGREGATE TO TESTING SIZE

1. Scope and Significance:

1.1 This practice describes methods for the reduction of field samples of aggregate to the
appropriate size for testing, employing techniques that are intended to minimise variations in
measured characteristics between the test samples so selected and the field sample.

1.2 Larger samples will tend to be more representative of the total supply. This practice provides
procedures for reducing the large sample obtained in the field to a convenient size for conducting a
number of tests to describe the material and measure its quality in a manner that the smaller portion
is most likely to be a representation of the field sample, and thus of the total supply. Failure to
carefully follow the procedures in this practice could result in providing a non-representative sample
to be used in subsequent testing. The individual test methods provide for minimum amount of
material to be tested.

1.3 Under certain circumstances, reduction in size of the field sample prior to testing is not
recommended. Substantial differences between the selected test samples sometimes cannot be
avoided, as for example, in the case of an aggregate having relatively few large size particles in the
field sample. The laws of chance dictate that these few particles may be unequally distributed
among the reduced size test samples. Similarly, if the test sample is being examined for certain
contaminants occurring as a few discrete fragments in only small percentages, caution should be
used in interpreting results from the reduced size test sample. Chance inclusion or exclusion of only
one or two particles in the selected sample may importantly influence interpretation of the
characteristics of the field sample. In these cases, the entire field sample should be tested.

2. Selection of Method:

2.1 Fine Aggregate: Field samples of fine aggregate that are drier than the saturated-surface-dry
condition (see note) shall be reduced in size by a mechanical splitter according to Method A. Field
samples having free moisture on the particle surfaces may be reduced in size by quartering
according to Method B, or by treating as a miniature stockpile as described in Method C.

If the use of Method B or Method C is desired, and the field sample does not have free moisture on
the particle surfaces, the sample may be moistened to achieve this condition, thoroughly mixed, and
then the sample reduction performed.

If use of Method A is desired and the field sample has free moisture on the particle surfaces, the
entire field sample may be dried to at least the surface-dry condition, using temperatures that do not
exceed those specified for any of the tests contemplated, and then the sample reduction performed.
Alternatively, if the moist field sample is very large, a preliminary split may be made using a
mechanical splitter having wide chute openings 38 mm (1.5 in.) or more to reduce the sample to not
less than 5000 g. The portion so obtained is then dried, and reduction to test sample size is
completed using Method A.

NOTE: As a quick approximation, if the fine aggregate will retain its shape when moulded in the hand, it may be
considered to be wetter than saturated-surface-dry.
Aggregates
2.2 Coarse Aggregates and Mixtures of Coarse and Fine Aggregates: Reduce the sample using a
mechanical splitter in accordance with Method A (preferred method) or by quartering in accordance
with Method B. The miniature stockpile Method C is not permitted for coarse aggregates or
mixtures of coarse and fine aggregates.

3. Sampling:

The field sample of aggregate shall be taken in accordance with Practice D 75, or as required by
individual test methods. When tests for sieve analysis only are contemplated, the size of field sample
listed in Practice D 75 is usually adequate. When additional tests are to be conducted, the user shall
satisfy himself that the initial size of the field sample is adequate to accomplish all intended tests.

METHOD-A, MECHANICAL SPLITTER

4. Apparatus:

Sample Splitter: Sample splitters shall have an even number of equal width chutes, but not less than
a total of eight for coarse aggregate, or twelve for fine aggregate, which discharge alternately to
each side of the splitter. For coarse aggregate and mixed aggregate, the minimum width of the
individual chutes shall be approximately 50% larger than the largest particles in the sample to be
split. For dry fine aggregate in which the entire sample will pass the 9.5 mm (3/8 in.) sieve, a
splitter having chutes 12.5 to 20 mm (1/2 to 3/4 in.) wide, shall be used. The splitter shall be
equipped with two receptacles to hold the two halves of the sample following splitting. It shall also
be equipped with a hopper or straight-edged pan which has a width equal to or slightly less than the
over-all width of the assembly of chutes, by which the sample may be fed at a controlled rate to the
chutes. The splitter and accessory equipment shall be so designed that the sample will flow
smoothly without restriction or loss of material (Figure 3.1).

Figure 3.1a: Large Riffle Sampler for Coarse Aggregate

Aggregates

Figure 3.1b: Small Riffle Samplers for Fine Aggregate

5. Procedure:

Place the field sample in the hopper or pan and uniformly distribute it from edge to edge, so that
when it is introduced into the chutes, approximately equal amounts will flow through each chute.
The rate at which the sample is introduced shall be such as to allow free flowing through the chutes
into the receptacles below. Reintroduce the portion of the sample in one of the receptacles into the
splitter as many times as necessary to reduce the sample to the size specified for the intended test.
The portion of the material collected in the other receptacle may be reserved for reduction in size for
other tests.

METHOD-B, QUARTERING

6. Apparatus:

Apparatus shall consist of a straight-edged scoop, shovel, or trowel; a broom or brush; and a canvas
blanket approximately 2m by 2.5 m (6 ft. by 8 ft.).

7. Procedure:

Use either the procedure described in 7.1 or 7.2 or a combination of both.

7.1 Place the field sample on a hard, clean, level surface where there will be neither loss of material
nor the accidental addition of foreign material. Mix the material thoroughly by turning the entire
sample over three times. With the last turning, shovel the entire sample into a conical pile by
depositing each shovelful on top of the preceding one. Carefully flatten the conical pile to a uniform
thickness and diameter by pressing down the apex with a shovel so that each quarter sector of the
resulting pile will contain the material originally in it. The diameter should be approximately four to
eight times the thickness. Divide the flattened mass into four equal quarters with a shovel or trowel
and remove two diagonally opposite quarters, including all fine material, and brush the cleared
spaces clean. Successively mix and quarter the remaining material until the sample is reduced to the
desired size (Figure 3.2).
Aggregates

Figure 3.2: Quartering on a Hard, Clean Level Surface

7.2 As an alternative to the procedure described in 7.1 when the floor surface is uneven, the field
sample may be placed on a canvas blanket and mixed with a shovel as described earlier, or by
alternately lifting each corner of the canvas and pulling it over the sample toward the diagonally
opposite corner, causing the material to be rolled. Flatten the pile as described earlier. Divide the
sample as described in 7.1, or if the surface beneath the blanket is uneven, insert a stick or pipe
beneath the blanket and under the centre of the pile, then lift both ends of the stick, dividing the
sample into two equal parts. Remove the stick leaving a fold of the blanket between the divided
portions. Insert the stick under the centre of the pile at right angles to the first division and again lift
both ends of the stick, dividing the sample into four equal parts. Remove two diagonally opposite
quarters, being careful to clean the fines from the blanket. Successively mix and quarter the
remaining material until the sample is reduced to the desired size (Figure 3.3).

Figure 3.3: Quartering on a Canvas Blanket

METHOD-C: MINIATURE STOCKPILE SAMPLING (Damp Fine Aggregate Only)

8. Apparatus:
Aggregates
Apparatus shall consist of a straight-edged scoop, shovel, or trowel for mixing the aggregate, and
either a small scoop, or spoon for sampling.

9. Procedure:

Place the field sample of damp fine aggregate on a hard, clean, level surface where there will be
neither loss of material nor the accidental addition of foreign material. Mix the material thoroughly
by turning the entire sample over three times. With the last turning, shovel the entire sample into a
conical pile by depositing each shovelful on top of the preceding one. If desired, the conical pile
may be flattened to a uniform thickness and diameter by pressing down the apex with a shovel so
that each quarter sector of the resulting pile will contain the material originally in it. Obtain a
sample for each test by selecting at least five increments of material at random locations from the
miniature stockpile, using any of the sampling devices described earlier.
 IV. STANDARD SPECIFICATION (ASTM E 11) FOR
WIRE-CLOTH SIEVES FOR TESTING PURPOSES

1. Scope:

This specification covers the design and construction of sieves wherein a screening medium of
woven wire cloth is mounted in a frame for use for precision testing in the classification of
materials. Methods of checking and calibrating sieves are included as information in the appendix.

2. Wire Cloth Sieve Requirements:

2.1 The openings of the wire cloth of successive standard sieves progress from a base of 1 mm in
the ratio of approximately (2:1)0.25.

2.2 Wire cloth for standard sieves shall be woven from stainless steel, brass, bronze, or other
suitable wire with a plain weave. The wire shall not be coated or plated.

2.3 Wire cloth shall conform to the dimensional requirements of Table 3.2 (see Note). The average
opening (distance between parallel wires measured at the centre of the opening), both in the warp
and shoot directions, measured separately, shall conform to the value in Column 1, within the
permissible variation in average opening size given in Column 4. The maximum individual opening
shall not exceed the value given in Column 6. Not more than 5% of the openings shall fall within
the range between the values given in Column 5 and Column 6.

The average diameter of the warp and shoot wires, taken separately, shall be within the permissible
range as specified by Column 7 and Footnote.

2.4 Both the warp and shoot wires shall be crimped in such a manner that they will be rigid when in
use.

2.5 All measurements of openings and wire diameters shall be made on the wire cloth mounted in
the completed sieve. Opening measurements shall be made along the mid points of the opening.

2.6 There shall be no punctures or obvious defects in the cloth.

NOTE: The dimensional tolerances given in Column 4, 5, and 6 can be described with Figure and equations given
below. These equations apply separately in both warp and weft (shoot) directions, with all measurements
being made on the midpoints of the opening (Figure 3.4).

3. Dimensions, Mass and Permissible Variations:

3.1 Column 4: In Column 4 values, the permissible variations of the average opening from the
standard sieve designation shall be stated as the Y value. The average opening size shall not exceed
± Y, where:
w 0.98
Y = + 1.6
27
NOTE: Here w is the width of sieve opening.
Aggregates
3.2 Column 6: In Column 6 values, the maximum individual opening shall be stated as w+X

where:
w 0.75
X = 2 + 4 w 0.25
3
NOTE: The formulas for both X and Y apply only where X, Y and w are expressed in micrometers.

3.3 Column 5: In Column 5 values, the intermediate tolerance shall be stated as w+Z

where:
Z=X+Y
Not more than 5% of the openings shall have sizes between w+Z and w+X. When a sieve has less
than 50 openings, not more than 3 openings shall fall within the limits of w+Z and w+X.

Figure 3.4: Proper Dimensioning for Wire Cloth Mesh

4. Frames:

4.1 General Requirements: Frames for wire cloth sieves shall be made from non-corrosive material
such as brass or stainless steel, and constructed in such a manner as to be permanently rigid. Pans
and covers shall be made so as to nest with the sieves. The wire cloth shall be mounted on the frame
without distortion, looseness, waviness. To prevent the material being sieved from catching in the
joint between the wire cloth and the frame, the joint on Sieves #25 and smaller opening shall be
filled smoothly with solder or made so that the material will not be trapped.

4.2 Standard Frames: The standard sieve frame shall be circular, 203.2 mm (8.0 in.) in diameter, of
seamless construction. The permissible variation on the mean inside diameter at 5.08 mm (0.2 in.)
below the top of the frame shall be +0.762 mm (0.03 in.). The bottom of the frame or "sieve skirt"
shall be constructed so as to provide for an easy sliding fit in any sieve conforming to the above
permissible variation, and in no case shall this outside diameter be less than 202.438 mm (7.970 in.)
nor more than 203.20 mm (8.000 in.). The height of the sieve from the top of the frame to the wire
cloth surface shall be either 50.8 mm (2.0 in.) designated as full-height, or 25.4 mm (1 in.),
designated as half-height. The joint or fillet shall be constructed to provide a minimum clear sieving
surface 190.5 mm (7.5 in.) in diameter.
4.3 Non-standard Frames: Frames of sieves having nominal openings of less than 25 mm (1 in.),
but greater than 4.00 mm (0.157 in.) may be either of the standard size or of larger dimensions as
may be specified in individual cases. Frames of sieves having nominal openings of 25 mm (1 in.) or
Aggregates
more may be larger than the standard size. The use of special size and shape frames for special
purposes is not precluded. For some purposes, sieve frames larger than the standard size may be
either square, rectangular, or circular, and for nominal openings of 25 mm (1 in.) and coarser may
be made of metal or hardwood. The use of special size and shape frames, however, shall be
discouraged where the standard frames may be used, because the results are not necessarily
comparable.

4.4 3 in (76.2 mm) Sieves: The tolerances on the diameter of the sieve frames shall be the same as
for the standard size. The depth of the sieve from the top of the frame to the cloth shall be normally
31.75 mm (1.25 in.), but not less than 19.05 mm (0.75 in.).

5. Product Marking:

Each sieve shall bear a label marked with the following information.
- This ASTM designation, No (ASTM E 11)
- Standard sieve designation (from Table Column 1)
- Name of manufacturer or distributor

Table-3.2: Nominal Dimensions, Permissible Variations for

Wire Cloth of Standard Test Sieves (USA), Standard Series
Sieve Designation, Permissible
(W) Nominal Variation of Intermediate Maximum Nominal
Sieve Average Opening Tolerance, Individual Wire
Opening. from the Standard (Z) Opening, (X) Diameter
Standard Alternative Sieve Designation
mm in./No. in. (Y), mm mm mm mm
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7)

75 3.0 3.0 ± 2.2 78.1 78.7 5.80

63 2.5 2.5 ± 1.9 65.6 66.2 5.50
50 2.0 2.0 ± 1.5 52.1 52.6 5.05
37.5 1.5 1.5 ± 1.1 39.1 39.5 4.59
25.0 1.0 1.0 ± 0.8 26.1 26.4 3.80
19.0 ¾ 0.750 ± 0.6 19.9 20.1 3.30
12.5 ½ 0.500 ± 0.39 13.1 13.31 2.67
3
9.5 /8 0.375 ± 0.30 9.97 10.16 2.27
4.75 No.4 0.187 ± 0.15 5.02 5.14 1.54
2.36 No.8 0.0937 ± 0.080 2.515 2.600 1.00
2.00 No.10 0.0787 ± 0.070 2.135 2.215 0.900
1.70 No.12 0.0661 ± 0.060 1.820 1.890 0.810
1.18 No.16 0.0469 ± 0.045 1.270 1.330 0.650
0.600 No.30 0.0234 ± 0.025 0.660 0.695 0.390
0.425 No.40 0.0165 ± 0.019 0.471 0.502 0.290
0.300 No.50 0.0117 ± 0.014 0.337 0.363 0.215
0.150 No.100 0.0059 ± 0.008 0.174 0.192 0.110
0.075 No.200 0.0029 ± 0.005 0.091 0.103 0.053
FOOT NOTE: - The average diameter of the warp and of the shoot wires, taken separately of the cloth of any sieve,
shall not deviate from the nominal values by more than the following:
Sieves coarser than 0. 600 mm = 5.0 %
Sieves 0. 600 to 0. 125 mm = 7.5 %
Sieves finer than 0. 125 mm = 10.0 %
- Not more than 5% of the openings may fall between the limits set by the values in Column 5 and
Column 6.
 APPENDIX - II

METHODS OF CHECKING WIRE CLOTH SIEVES TO

DETERMINE WHETHER THEY CONFORM TO SPECIFICATION

Every opening in the metal wire cloth in a test sieve shall be eligible for inspection for compliance
with the requirements listed in table.

When a sieve has 20 openings or less, all openings shall be measured. In other cases the examination
shall proceed in stages from a survey of general condition, to a methodical scrutiny of individual
openings, and finally to measurement of opening size for compliance with the tolerances.

Test-1: Examination of General Condition of the Wire Cloth

For this purpose the sieve cloth shall be viewed against a uniformly illuminated background. If
obvious deviations from Table, for example weaving defects, creases, wrinkles, foreign matter in the
cloth, are found, the sieve is unacceptable.

Test-2: Examination of Openings For Tolerance

The observer shall carefully and methodically examine the appearance of all the openings, in order
to detect oversize openings. Openings whose width deviates by about 10% of the average value are
apparent to the unaided eye of a skilled observer. By this method, known as the "handicap method",
it is probable that all oversize openings exceeding the average value by about 10% or more will be
detected. At the same time it is easily possible to detect sequences of large openings, and local
irregularities in the weaving, appearing as distortions of the openings. If one opening is found to be
oversize by more than the maximum permissible limit X, the sieve is unacceptable.

Test-3: Assessment of Openings Exceeding the Intermediate Limit of W + Z

Those openings whose width is between the limits of w+Z and w+X (See Note) shall be counted, or
their proportion of the total number of opening determined from representative sample regions. If
these openings exceed the permissible limits, the sieve is unacceptable.

Test-4: Measurement of Average Size of Opening and Average Diameter of Wire

After a sieve has been found acceptable by the above tests, measurements of the average size of
opening and diameter of wire shall be made on sample regions. These average values shall lie within
the prescribed limits given in Table 3.2.

The average sizes shall be measured over at last 10 openings, if available, in each direction in each
of at least two positions on the cloth. If the results from the two fields fall in different tolerance
bands and if they contradict the information from Table, the average sizes at more positions on the
cloth shall be checked.
Aggregates
Responsibility for Inspection:

Unless otherwise specified in the contract or purchase order, the producer is responsible for the
performance of all inspection and test requirements specified herein. Except as otherwise specified
in the contract or order, the producer may use its own or any other suitable facilities for the
performance of the inspection and test requirements specified herein, unless disapproved by the
purchaser. The purchaser shall have the right to perform any of the inspections and tests set forth in
this specification where such inspections are deemed necessary to ensure that material conforms to
prescribed requirements.
 V. STANDARD METHOD (ASTM C 136) FOR SIEVE
ANALYSIS OF FINE AND COARSE AGGREGATES

1. Scope, Significance, Use:

1.1 This method covers the determination of the particle size distribution of fine and coarse
aggregates by sieving. Some specifications for aggregates which reference this method contain
grading requirements including both coarse and fine fractions. Instructions are included for sieve
analysis of such aggregates.

1.2 A weighed sample of dry aggregates is separated through a series of sieves of progressively
smaller openings for determination of particle size distribution in the test.

1.3 This method is used primarily to determine the grading of materials proposed for use as
aggregates or being used as aggregates. The results are used to determine compliance of the particle
size distribution with applicable specification requirements and to provide necessary data for control
of the production of various aggregate products and mixtures containing aggregates. Accurate
determination of material finer than the 75 micron (No. 200) sieve cannot be achieved by use of this
method alone. Test Method C 117 for material finer than 75 micron sieve by washing should be
employed.

2. Apparatus:

2.1 Balances: For fine aggregates, readable to 0.1 g and accurate to 0.1 g or 0.1 % of the test load,
whichever is greater, at any point within the range of use. For coarse aggregate, or mixtures of fine
and coarse aggregates, readable and accurate to 0.5 g or 0.1% of the test load, whichever is greater,
at any point within the range of use.

2.2 Sieves: The sieves shall be mounted on substantial frames constructed in a manner that will
prevent loss of material during sieving. The sieves shall conform to Specification E 11 mentioned
earlier.

NOTE: It is recommended that sieves mounted in frames larger than standard 203 mm (8 in.) diameter frames be
used for testing coarse aggregates.

2.3 Mechanical Sieve Shaker: A mechanical sieve shaker, if used, shall impart a vertical, or lateral
and vertical, motion to the sieve, causing the particles thereon to bounce and turn so as to present
different orientations to the sieving surface. The sieving action shall be such that the criterion for
adequacy of sieving described in 4.4 is met in a reasonable time period.

NOTE: Use of a mechanical sieve shaker is recommended when the size of the sample is 20 Kg. or greater, and
may be used for smaller samples, including fine aggregates. Excessive time (more than approximately 10
min) to achieve adequate sieving may result in degradation of the sample. The same mechanical sieve
shaker may not be practical for all sizes of samples, since the large sieving are a needed for practical sieving
of a large nominal size coarse aggregates very likely could result in loss of a portion of the sample if used
for a small sample of coarse aggregates or fine aggregates.

2.4 Oven: An oven of appropriate size capable of maintaining a uniform temperature of 110±5 0C.
Aggregates
3. Sampling:

3.1 Sample the aggregates in accordance with ASTM D75. The Weight of the field sample shall be
the weight shown ASTM D 75 or four times the weight required in 3.4 and 3.5 (except as modified
in 3.6). whichever is greater.

3.2 Thoroughly mix the sample and reduce it to an amount suitable for testing using the applicable
procedures described in ASTM C 702. The sample for test shall be approximately of the weight
desired when dry and shall be the end result of the reduction. Reduction to an exact, predetermined
weight shall not be permitted. (ASTM D 75 and C 702 is mentioned in previous articles).

NOTE: Where sieve analysis including determination of material finer than the 75 micron sieve is the only testing
proposed, the size of the sample may be reduced in the field to avoid shipping excessive quantities of extra
material to the laboratory.

3.3 Fine Aggregates

The test sample of fine aggregate shall weigh, after drying, approximately the following amount:

Aggregate with at least 95% passing a 2.36 mm (No.8) Sieve - 100 gm

Aggregate with at least 85% passing a 4.75 mm (No.4) Sieve and more than 5% retained on a 2.36
mm (No.8) Sieve - 500 gm

3.4 Coarse Aggregates

The weight of the test sample of coarse aggregate shall conform with the following:

Nominal Maximum Size Minimum Weight of

Square Openings, mm (in.) Test Sample, Kg (lb.)
9.5 (3/8) 1 (2)
12.5 (1/2) 2 (4)
19.0 (3/4) 5 (11)
25.0 (1) 10 (22)
37.5 (1.5) 15 (33)
50 (2) 20 (44)
63 (2.5) 35 (77)
75 (3) 60 (130)
100 (4) 150 (330)
125 (5) 300 (660)
150 (6) 500 (1100)

3.5 Coarse and Fine Aggregates Mixtures

The weight of the test sample of coarse and fine aggregates mixtures shall be the same as for coarse
aggregate in 3.4.

3.6 The size of sample required for aggregates with large nominal maximum size is such as to
preclude testing except with large mechanical sieve shakers. However, the intent of this method will
be satisfied for samples of aggregates larger than 50 mm nominal size, if a smaller weight of sample
is used, provided that the criterion for acceptance or rejection of the material is based on the average
of results of several samples, such that the sample size used times the number of samples averaged
equals the minimum weight of sample shown in 3.4.
Aggregates

3.7 In the event that the amount of material finer than the 75 micron (No. 200) sieve is to be
determined by Test Method ASTM C 117 (wash sieving) proceed as follows:

a. For aggregates with a nominal maximum size of 12.5 mm (1/2 in.) or less, use the same test
sample for testing by Test Method ASTM C-117 and this method. First test the sample in
accordance with Test Method ASTM C-117 through the final drying operation, then dry sieve the
sample as stipulated in 4.2 through 4.7 of this “Standard Method ASTM C-136 ".

b. For Aggregates with a nominal maximum size greater than 12.5 mm (1/2 in.), a single test sample
may be used as described in above or separate test samples may be used for Test Method ASTM C
117 and this method.

c. Where the specifications require determination of the total amount of material finer than the 75
micron sieve by washing and dry sieving, use the procedure described in (a) of 3.7.

4. Procedure:

4.1 Dry the sample to constant weight at a temperature of 110±5oC.

NOTE: For control purposes, particularly where rapid results are desired, it is generally not necessary to dry coarse
aggregates for the sieve analysis test. The results are little affected by the moisture content unless: 1. the
nominal maximum size is smaller than about 12.5 mm (1/2 in.); 2. the coarse aggregates contains appreciable
material finer than 4.75 mm (# 4), or (3) the coarse aggregates is highly absorptive (a lightweight aggregates,
for example). Also, samples may be dried at the higher temperatures associated with the use of hot plates
without affecting results, provided steam escapes without generating pressures sufficient to fracture the
particles, and temperatures are not so great as to cause chemical breakdown of the aggregates.

4.2 Suitable sieve sizes shall be selected to furnish the information required by the specifications
covering the material to be tested. The use of additional sieves may be desirable to provide other
information, such as fineness modules, or to regulate the amount of material on a sieve. Nest the
sieves in order of decreasing size of opening from top to bottom and place the sample on the top
sieve. Agitate the sieves by hand or by mechanical apparatus for a sufficient period, established by
trial or checked by measurement on the actual test sample, to meet the criterion for adequacy or
sieving described in 4.4.

4.3 Limit the quantity of material on a given sieve so that all particles have opportunity to reach
sieve openings a number of times during the sieving operation. For sieves with openings smaller
than 4.75mm (#4), the weight retained on any sieve at the completion of the sieving operation shall
not exceed 6 Kg/m2 (4 gm/in2) of sieving surface. For sieves with openings 4.75mm (#4) and larger,
the weight in kg/m2 of sieving surface shall not exceed the product of 2.5x(sieve opening in mm). In
no case shall the weight be so great as to cause permanent deformation of the sieve cloth. The 6
kg/m2 amounts to 194 g for the usual 203 mm (8 in.) diameter sieve. The amount of material
retained on a sieve may be regulated by - 1. the introduction of a sieve with larger openings
immediately above the given sieve or 2. testing the sample in a number of increments.

4.4 Continue sieving for a sufficient period and in such manner that, after completion, not more
than 1 weight % of the residue on any individual sieve will pass that sieve during 1 min of
continuous hand sieving performed as follows:
Aggregates
Hold the individual sieve, provided with a snug-fitting pan and cover, in a slightly inclined
position in one hand. Strike the side of the sieve sharply and with an upward motion against the heel
of the other hand at the rate of about 150 times per minute, turn the sieve about one sixth of a
revolution at intervals of about 25 strokes. In determining sufficiency of sieving for sizes larger than
the 4.75 mm (No. 4) sieve, limit the material on the sieve to a single layer of particles. If the size of
the mounted testing sieves makes the described sieving motion impractical, use 203 mm (8 in.)
diameter sieves to verify the sufficiency of sieving.

4.5 In the case of coarse and fine aggregates mixtures the portion of the sample finer than the 4.75
mm (#4) sieve may be distributed among two or more sets of sieves to prevent overloading of
individual sieves.

Alternatively, the portion finer than the 4.75 mm (No.4) sieve may be reduced in size using a
mechanical splitter according to ASTM C-702. If this procedure is followed, compute the weight of
each size increment of the original sample as follows:

W1
A B
W2

where
A = weight of size increment on total sample basis
W1 = weight of fraction finer than 4.75 mm (No. 4) sieve in total sample
W2 = weight of reduced portion of material finer than 4.75 mm (No.4) sieve actually sieved
B = weight of size increment in reduced portion sieved.

4.6 Unless a mechanical sieve shaker is used, hand sieve particles larger than 75 mm (3 in.) by
determining the smallest sieve opening through which each particle will pass. Start the test on the
smallest sieve to be used. Rotate the particles, if necessary, in order to determine whether they will
pass through a particular opening; however, do not force particles to pass through an opening.

4.7 Determine the weight of each size increment by weighing. The total weight of the material after
sieving should check closely with original weight of sample placed on the sieves. If the amounts
differ by more than 0.3% based on the original dry sample weight, the result should not be used for
acceptance purposes.

4.8 If the sample has previously been tested by Test Method ASTM C-117, add the weight finer
than the 75 micron (No. 200) sieve determined by that method to the weight passing the 75 micron
(No.200) sieve by dry sieving of the same sample in this method (ASTM C-136).

5. Calculation:

5.1 Calculate percentages passing, total percentages retained or percentages in various size fractions
to the nearest 0.1% on the basis of the total weight of the initial dry sample. If the same test sample
was first tested by Test Method ASTM C 117, include the weight of material finer than the 75
micron (No. 200) size by washing in the sieve analysis calculation; and use the total dry sample
weight prior to washing in Test Method ASTM C 117 as the basis for calculating all the
percentages.

5.2 Calculate the fineness modules, when required, by adding the total percentages of material in
the sample that is coarser than each of the following sieves (cumulative percentages retained), and
Aggregates
dividing the sum by 150 micron (No.100), 300 micron (No.50), 600 micron (No.30), 1.18-mm
(No.16), 2.36-mm (No.8), 4.75-mm (No.4), 9.5-mm (3/8-in.), 19.0-mm (3/4-in.), 37.5-mm
(1.5-in.), and larger, increasing in the ratio of 2 to 1.

6. Report:

The report shall include the following:

Total percentage of material passing each sieve, or

- Total percentage of material retained on each sieve,

- Report percentage to the nearest whole number, except if the percentage passing the 75 micron
(No.200) sieve is less than 10%, it shall be reported to the nearest 0.1%.
- Report the fineness modules, when required, to the nearest 0.01.
 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT

RDP NO.: ISP LABORATORY AT: DHAKA_

_______________________________________________________________________________________________
GRAIN SIZE ANALYSIS (Mechanical) OF FINE AGGREGATE, SOIL, ETC.

Client: XEN, LGED, Gazipur Memo No/Ref, Date: Letter of XEN dated
05.05.94
Scheme: 16 m GCCR Bridge Location: Kaliakair - Fulb.ari Road (3530
m)____
Sample No.: _MS - 5 Type of Specimen: Medium Sand___ Sampled by & Date: Nuruddin,
05.05.94
Quantity Collected from Field: 3 Kg Quantity Represented: ______30 m3
(approx.)_____
Laboratory Register No. ISP/GR/104/93-94 Date of Test: 10.05.94__

Sample Size
Wt. of dry sample + Container = 304.8 gm.
Wt. of Container = 174.3 gm.
Wt. of dry sample = 130.5 gm.

SIEVE ANALYSIS DATA:

Standard Opening Cumulative Wt. Cumulative %
Sieve No. mm Retained , gm. Retained %Passing

3/8 ² 9.5 0 0 100

#4 4.75 0.8 0.6 99

#8 2.36 3.8 2.9 97

# 16 1.18 15.3 11.7 88

# 30 0.600 28.3 21.7 78

# 50 0.300 78.7 60.3 40

# 100 0.150 97.6 74.8 25

# 200 0.075 118.1 90.5 9.5

Pan ----- 129.9 ----- -----

F. M.: 1.72 Fines or % of Silt and Clay: 9.5

Tested by: Ziauddin (Laboratory Technician) and Md. KabirKabir (Laboratory

Helper)_____________________

Comments of the Laboratory In-charge:

- Fines exceeds the allowable limit and F.M. is also not OK

- Required F.M. is 1.8 for concrete work.
- Graph is not required to determine “ WELL / POORLY
- GRADED” for this project

Signed by: Masud Ahmed, SALS, ISP, LGED Central Laboratory, Dhaka,10-5-
94___________________________
 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT

RDP NO.: ISP LABORATORY AT: DHAKA__

_______________________________________________________________________________________________
GRAIN SIZE ANALYSIS (Mechanical) OF COARSE AGGREGATE

Client: XEN, LGED, Gazipur Memo No/Ref., Date: Letter of XEN dated
03.05.94__
Scheme: 16 m GCCR Bridge Location: Kaliakair - Fulb.ari Road (3530
m)_______
Sample No.: __SC - 3__ Type of Specimen: Stone chips Sampled by & Date: SAE /Gazipur,
03.05.94.
Quantity Collected from Field: 50 Kg_ Quantity Represented: about 60 m3_
Laboratory Register No.: ISP/GR/206/93-94 Date of Test: 12.05.94.

Sample Size
Wt. of Dry Sample + Container = 16.775 Kg
Wt. of Container = 0.465 Kg
Wt. of Dry Sample =16.310 Kg

SIEVE ANALYSIS DATA:

Sieve Standard Opening Cumulative Wt. Cumulative % % Passing
No. mm Retained, Kg. Retained, Kg.
3² 75 0 0 100

2² 50 0.183 1.1 99

1.5 ² 37.5 1.202 7.4 93

1² 25 5.715 35.0 65

3/4 ² 19 10.225 62.7 37

3/8 ² 9.5 13.835 84.8 15

#4 4.75 13.835+.044*A 85.9 14

=14.010
14.010+.251*A
#8 2.36 =15.004 92.0 8
15.004+.041*A
# 16 1.18 =15.166 93.0 7
15.166+.087*A
# 30 0.600 =15.511 95.1 5
15.511+.163*A
# 200 0.075 =16.156 99.1 0.9 (not plotted)
16.156+.033*A
Pan --- =16.287 --- ---

Important Features: Sample passing 3/8" sieve (16.310-13.835) = 2.475 kg. This is reduced by quartering.
To 0.625 kg & then sieving continued. So multiplying factor = 2.475/0.625.= 3.96 (A).

Tested by: Ziauddin (Laboratory Technician) and Kabir (Laboratory Helper)_____________________________

Comments of the Laboratory In-charge: REFER TO THE NEXT

PAGE____________________________________
Signed by: Masud Ahmed, SALS,ISP.LGED Central Laboratory-Dhaka,13-5-
94____________________________
LOCAL GOVERNMENT ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT

RDP NO.: 4(ISP) LABORATORY AT: Dhaka__

________________________________________________________________________________________________
GRAIN SIZE DISTRIBUTION GRAPH

FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

Client: Memo No./Ref. Date:

____________________________________

Scheme: Location:
______________________________________________

Sample No.: Boring No.: ____ ___________ Depth:

___________________

Lab. Register No.: Date of Test:

____________________

Visual Soil Description:

Other Features/Parameters: D10  3.0 mm, D30 16.0 mm, D60 24.0 mm.
D 60 ( D 30) 2
CU  8.00 CC   356
.
D10 D 60 D10
Classification: POORLY GRADED GRAVEL, Group Symbol -GP as per
ASTM____________________________

Comments of the Laboratory In-charge: If the concerned project has some specified gradation (ranges of %
passing in different sieves), then Cc and Cv need not to be calculated. In that case compare the result with that
specified gradation and take
decision.________________________________________________________________________

Signed by: Masud Ahmed, SALS, ISP, LGED Central Laboratory-Dhaka,13-5-

94__________________________
 VI. STANDARD TEST METHOD (ASTM C 117) FOR
MATERIALS FINER THAN 75 MICRON (NO. 200) SIEVE
IN MINERAL AGGREGATES BY WASHING

1. Scope, Significance, Use:

1.1 This test method covers determination of the amount of material finer than a 75micron
(No.200) sieve in aggregates by washing. Clay particles and other aggregate particles that are
dispersed by the wash water, as well as water-soluble materials, will be removed from the
aggregates during the test.

1.2 A sample of the aggregates is washed in a prescribed manner, using water. The decanted wash
water, containing suspended and dissolved material, is passed through a 75 micron (No.200) sieve.
The loss in mass resulting from the wash treatment is calculated as mass percent of the original
sample and is reported as the percentage of material finer than a 75 micron (No. 200) sieve by
washing.

1.3 Material finer than the 75 micron (No. 200) sieve can be separated from larger particles much
more efficiently and completely by wet sieving than through the use of dry sieving. Therefore, when
accurate determinations of material finer than 75 micron in fine or coarse aggregate are desired, this
test method is used on the sample prior to dry sieving in accordance with Method C 136 (Sieve
Analysis). The results of this test method are included in the calculation in Method C 136, and the
total amount of material finer than 75 micron by washing, plus that obtained by dry sieving the same
sample, is reported with the results of Method C 136. Usually the additional amount of material
finer than 75 micron obtained in the dry sieving process is a small amount. If it is large, the
efficiency of the washing operation should be checked. It could, also, be an indication of
degradation of the aggregates.

2. Additional Apparatus:

Sieves-A nest of two sieve, the lower being a 75 micron (No.200) sieve and the upper a 1.18-mm
(No. 16) sieve, both conforming to the requirements of Specification E 11.

3. Sampling:

3.1 Sample the aggregates in accordance with Practice D 75. If the same test sample is to be tested
for sieve analysis according to Method C 136, comply with the applicable requirements of that test
method.

3.2 Thoroughly mix the sample of aggregates to be tested and reduce the quantity to an amount
suitable for testing using the applicable methods described in Practice C 702. If the same test
sample is to be tested according to Method C 136, the minimum mass shall be as described in
the applicable sections of that method. Otherwise, the mass of the test sample, after drying, shall
conform with the following:
Nominal Maximum Size Minimum Mass, gm
2.36mm (#8) 100
4.75mm (#4) 500
9.5 mm (3/8 in.) 1,000
19.0mm (3/4 in.) 2,500
37.5mm (1.5 in.) or larger 5,000
 The test sample shall be the end result of the reduction. Reduction to an exact
predetermined mass shall not be permitted.
Aggregates

4. Procedure:
4.1 Dry the test sample to constant mass at a temperature of 110±5 oC (230±9oF). Determine the
mass to the nearest 0.1% of the mass of the test sample.
4.2 If the applicable specification requires that the amount passing the 75 micron (No.200) sieve
shall be determined on a portion of the sample passing a sieve smaller than the nominal maximum
size of the aggregates, separate the sample of the designated sieve and determine the mass of the
material passing the designated sieve to 0.1% of the mass of this portion of the test sample. Use this
mass as the original dry mass of the test sample in Section 5.
NOTE: Some specifications for aggregates with a nominal maximum size of 50 mm or greater, for example, provide
a limit for materials passing the 75 micron (No.200) sieve determined on that portion of the sample passing
the 25.0 mm sieve. Such procedures are necessary since it is impractical to wash samples of the size required
when the same test sample is to be used for sieve analysis by Method ASTM C 136.

4.3 After drying and determining the mass, place the test sample in the container and add sufficient
water to cover it. Agitate the sample with sufficient vigour to result in complete separation of all
particles finer than the 75 micron (#200) sieve from the coarser particles, and to bring the fine
material into suspension. Immediately pour the wash water containing the suspended and dissolved
solids over the nested sieves, arranged with the coarser sieve on top. Take care to avoid, as much as
feasible, the decantation of coarser particles of the sample.
4.4 Add a second charge of water to the sample in the container, agitate, and decant as before.
Repeat this operation until the wash water is clear.
NOTE: If mechanical washing equipment is used, the charging of water, agitating and decanting may be a continuous
operation.

4.5 Return all material retained on the nested sieves by flushing to the washed sample. Dry the
washed aggregates to constant mass at a temperature of 110±5 oC (230±9oF) and determine the mass
to the nearest 0.1% of the original mass of the sample.
NOTE: Following the washing of the sample and flushing any material retained on the 75 micron (#200) sieve back
into the container, no water should be decanted from the container except through the 75 micron sieve, to
avoid loss of material. Excess water from flushing should be evaporated from the sample in the drying
process.

5. Calculation:
Calculate the amount of material passing a 75 micron (#200) sieve by washing as follows:
B-C
A =  100
B
where
A = percentage of material finer than a 75 micron (#200) sieve by washing
B = original dry mass of sample, in grams, and
C = dry mass of sample after washing, in grams

6. Report:

Report the percentage of material finer than the 75 micron (No.200) sieve by washing to the nearest
0.1%, except if the result is 10% or more, report the percentage to the nearest whole number.
 VII. STANDARD TEST METHOD (ASTM C 131) FOR
RESISTANCE TO DEGRADATION OF SMALL-SIZE
COARSE AGGREGATE BY ABRASION AND IMPACT
IN THE LOS ANGELES MACHINE

1. Scope, Significance, Use:

1.1 This test method covers a procedure for testing sizes of coarse aggregates smaller than 37.5mm
(1.5 in.) for resistance to degradation using the Los Angeles Abrasion Testing Machine.

1.2 The Los Angeles Abrasion Test is a measure of degradation of mineral aggregates of standard
grading resulting from a combination of actions including abrasion or attrition, impact, and grinding
in a rotating steel drum containing a special number of steel spheres, the number depending upon
the grading of the test sample. As the drum rotates, a shelf plate picks up the sample and the steel
spheres, carrying them around until they are dropped to the opposite side of the drum, creating an
impact-crushing effect. The contents then roll within the drum with an abrading and grinding action
until the shelf plate impacts and the cycle is repeated. After the prescribed number of revolutions,
the contents are removed from the drum and the aggregate portion is sieved to measure the
degradation as percent loss.

1.3 The Los Angeles Abrasion Test has been widely used as an indicator of the relative quality or
competence of various sources of aggregates having similar mineral compositions. The results do
not automatically permit valid comparisons to be made between sources distinctly different in
origin, composition, or structure. Specification limits based on this test should be assigned with
extreme care in consideration of available aggregate types and their performance history in specific
end uses.

2. Apparatus:

2.1 Los Angeles Abrasion Machine:

The Los Angeles Abrasion Testing Machine, conforming in all its essential characteristics to
the design shown in Figure 3.5 shall be used. The machine shall consist of a hollow steel cylinder,
closed at both ends, having an inside diameter of 711±5mm (28+0.2 in.) and an inside length of
508±5mm (20+0.2 in.). The cylinder shall be mounted on stub shafts attached to the ends of the
cylinder but not entering it, and shall be mounted in such a manner that it may be rotated with the
axis in a horizontal position within a tolerance in slope of 1 in 100. An opening in the cylinder shall
be provided for the introduction of the test sample. A suitable, dust-tight cover shall be provided for
the opening with means for bolting the cover in place. The cover shall be so designed as to maintain
the cylindrical contour of the interior surface unless the self is so located that the charge will not fall
on the cover, or come in contact with it during the test.

A removable steel shelf extending the full length of the cylinder and projecting inward
89±2mm (3.5+0.1in.) shall be mounted on the interior cylindrical surface of the cylinder, in such a
way that a plane centered between the large faces coincides with an axial plane. The shelf shall
Aggregate

be of such thickness and so mounted, by bolts or other suitable means, as to be firm and rigid. The
position of the shelf shall be such that the distance from the shelf to the opening, measured along the
outside circumference of the cylinder in the direction of rotation, shall be not less than 1.27 m. (50
in.).

NOTE: The use of a shelf of wear-resistant steel, rectangular in cross section and mounted independently of the
cover, is preferred. However, a shelf consisting of a section of rolled angle, properly mounted on the inside of
the cover plate, may be used provided the direction of rotation is such that the charge will be caught on the
outside face of the angle. If the shelf become distorted from its original shape to such an extent that the
requirements given in the Appendix-III are not met, the shelf shall either be repaired or replaced before
additional tests are made. The machine shall be so driven and so counterbalanced as to maintain a
substantially uniform peripheral speed (Note). If an angle is used as the shelf, the direction of rotation shall be
such that the charge is caught on the outside surface of the angle.

NOTE: Back-lash or slip in the driving mechanism is very likely to furnish test results which are not duplicated by
other Los Angeles Abrasion Testing Machines producing constant peripheral speed.

2.2 Sieves, conforming to Specification ASTM E 11

2.3 Balance
A balance or scale accurate within 0.1% of test load over the range required for this test.

Figure 3.5a: Los Angeles Abrasion Testing Machine

Aggregate

Figure 3.5b: Los Angeles Abrasion Testing Machine with Dimension

2.4 Charge

The charge shall consist of steel spheres averaging approximately 46.8 mm (1-21/32 in.) in diameter
and each weighing between 390 and 445 gm.

The charge, depending upon the grading of the test sample as described in Section 4, shall be as
follows:

Grading Number of Weight of Charge,

Spheres gm
A 12 5000 ± 25
B 11 4584 ± 25
C 8 3330 ± 20
D 6 2500 ± 15

NOTE: Steel ball bearings 46.0 mm (1-13/16 in.) and 47.6 mm (1-7/8 in.) in diameter, weighing approximately 400
and 440 gm each, respectively, are readily available. Steel spheres 46.8 mm (1-27/32 in.) in diameter
weighing approximately 420 gm are also obtainable. The charge (or balls) may consist of a mixture of these
sizes conforming to the weight tolerances of 2.4.
3. Sampling:
Aggregate

The field sample shall be obtained in accordance with Practice ASTM D 75 and reduced to test
portion size in accordance with Methods ASTM C 702.

4. Test Sample:

The test sample shall be washed and oven-dried 105 to 110o C to substantially constant weight
(Note), separated into individual size fractions, and recombined to the grading of Table-3.3 most
nearly corresponding to the range of sizes in the aggregates as furnished for the work. The weight of
the sample prior to test shall be recorded to the nearest 1 gm.

5. Procedure:

Place the test sample and the charge in the Los Angeles Testing Machine and rotate the machine at a
speed of 30 to 33 rpm for 500 revolutions. After the prescribed number of revolutions, discharge the
material from the machine and make a preliminary separation of the sample on a sieve coarser than
the 1.70mm (No. 12). Sieve the finer portion on a 1.70mm sieve in a manner conforming to Method
C 136 (sieve analysis). Wash the material coarser than the 1.70mm sieve (Note), oven-dry at 105 to
110o C to substantially constant weight, and weigh to the nearest 1 gm (Note).

Table 3.3: Grading of Test Samples

Sieve Size (Square Openings) Weight of Indicated Sizes Grading
Passing Retained on A B C D
37.5 mm (1-1/2 in.) 25.0 mm (1 in.) 1250±25 ... ... ...
25.0 mm (1 in.) 19.0 mm (3/4in.) 1250±25 ... ... ...
19.0 mm (3/4 in.) 12.5 mm (1/2in.) 1250±10 2500±10 ... ...
12.5 mm (1/2 in.) 9.5 mm (3/8in.) 1250±10 2500±10 ... ...
9.5 mm (3/8 in.) 6.3 mm (1/4 in) ... ... 2500±10 ...
6.3 mm (1/4 in.) 4.75mm (#4) ... ... 2500±10 ...
mm (#4) 2.36mm (#8) ... ... ...
5000±10
Total 5 000±10 5 000±10 5 000±10 5
000±10
NOTE: If the aggregate is essentially free of adherent coatings and dust, the requirement for washing before and
after test may be waived. Elimination of washing after test will seldom reduce the measured loss by more
than about 0.2% of the original sample weight.

NOTE: Valuable information concerning the uniformity of the sample under test may be obtained by determining the
loss after 100 revolutions. This loss should be determined without washing the material coarser than the 1.70
mm (No.12) sieve. The ratio of the loss after 100 revolutions to the loss after 500 revolutions should not
greatly exceed 0.20 for material of uniform hardness. When this determination is made, take care to avoid
losing any part of the sample; return the entire sample, including the dust of fracture, to the testing machine
for the final 400 revolutions required to complete the test.

6. Calculation:

Express the loss (difference between the original weight and the final weight of the test sample) as a
percentage of the original weight of the test sample. Report this value as the percent loss.
 APPENDIX - III
MAINTENANCE OF SHELF

a. The shelf of the Los Angeles Machine is subject to severe surface wear and impact. With use, the
working surface of the shelf is penned by the balls and tends to develop a ridge of metal parallel to
and about 32 mm (1-1/4 in.) from the junction of the shelf and the inner surface of the cylinder. If
the shelf is made from a section of rolled angle, not only may this ridge develop, but the shelf itself
may be bent longitudinally or transversely from its proper position.

b. The shelf should be inspected periodically to determine that it is not bent either lengthwise or
from its normal radial position with respect to the cylinder. If either condition is found, the shelf
should be repaired or replaced before further tests are made. The influence on the test result of the
ridge developed by peaking of the working face of the shelf is not known. However, for uniform test
conditions, it is recommended that the ridge be ground off if its height exceeds 2 mm (0.1 in.).
 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT

RDP NO.: ISP LABORATORY AT: DHAKA_

________________________________________________________________________________________________
RESISTANCE TO ABRASION OF COARSE AGGREGATE
BY THE USE OF LOS ANGELES ABRASION TEST (ASTM C 131)

Client: B.D.C. Memo No./Ref. Date: Project Manager, 28. 04.

94_________
Scheme: LGED HQ. Building Construction Location: Agargaon,
Dhaka___________________________
Sample No.: 16 Type of Specimen: STONE-
CHIPS________________
Sampled by & Date: Engr.Bari(ALS), 28.04.94_________________________________________________________
Quantity Collected from Field: 20 Kg Quantity Represented: ___50 m3 (approx.)_____
Laboratory Register No.: ISP/LAA/39/93-94 Date of Testing: 13.05.94___
No. of Revolution: 500_________

T Abrasion Value,
e Sieve #_____ Wt. of %
s Passing Retained Material, Other Information Remark
t mm mm gm W 1 W 2
No.  100
W 1

01 19.0 12.5 2,500 Grading = B

12.5 9.5 2,500 No. of Sphere = 11

38.6 39
Wt. of Charge, gm = 4,606

_______ Wt. retained in #12 sieve after

test (W2),gm = 3,072
Total (W1) = 5000

Grading =

No. of Sphere =

Wt. of Charge, gm =

Wt. retained in #12 sieve after

test (W2),gm =
Total (W1) =
NOTE: - For Grade A: grading use 12 Spheres of total weight 5,000 ± 25 gm

- For Grade B: grading use 11 Spheres of total weight 4,584 ± 25 gm

- For Grade C: grading use 8 Spheres of total weight 3,330 ± 20 gm

- For Grade D: grading use 6 Spheres of total weight 2,500 ± 15 gm

Tested by: Md. Kabir Hossain (Laboratory Helper )____________________________________________________

Comments of the Laboratory In-charge: As per AASHTO & ASTM for Wearing Course L.A.A. value up to
40%__
 is acceptable but for Concrete and Base/Sub-base Course the acceptable limit is 45 to
50%.__________________

Signed by: Masud Ahmed, SALS, ISP, LGED Central Laboratory, Dhaka, 13-5-94________________________

VIII. AGGREGATE CRUSHING VALUE TEST (BS-812)

1. General Discussion:

1.1 The Aggregate Crushing Value (ACV) test gives a relative measure of the resistance of an
aggregate to crushing under a gradually applied load. As in the case of the Los Angeles Abrasion
test the results are often used to give an indication of the general strength and durability of an
aggregate.

1.2 In the case of weaker aggregates which give ACV values higher than 30, the results are
unreliable, and for these materials, the Ten-percent Fines Value (TFV) test should be used.

1.3 The ACV test utilises an open-ended steel cylinder of 150 mm nominal internal diameter which
is fitted with a plunger and base-plate as shown in Figure 3.6. The cylinder is of sufficient strength
to withstand the considerable stresses developed in testing and the internal surfaces are hardened to
reduce damage by aggregates.

1.4 The mould containing the sample is compressed on a concrete cube crushing machine which is
capable of applying a load of at least 400 KN. The sample is initially prepared using a cylindrical
steel measure of 115 mm. diameter and 180 mm. depth and compacted using a 16 mm. diameter
steel tamping rod of 450 to 600 mm. length with one end rounded.

NOTE: In special circumstances when the ram travel of the Compression Tester is lower or the aggregates are very
soft, mould of 75 mm nominal diameter is required to perform the test. In that case load of 100 KN is applied
and the size of cylindrical measure is of 57 mm internal diameter and 90 mm internal depth. Specimen is
compacted using 8 mm diameter steel tamping rod of 300 mm length.

NOTE: Figure 3.6 and Table 3.4 describes the dimensions for 150 mm nominal diameter and 75 mm nominal
diameter apparatus.

2. Sample Preparation:

2.1 The material for the test consists of aggregates passing a 14.0 mm sieve and retained on a 10.0
mm. sieve. The sample should be surface dry. If an oven is used for drying, the sample should not
remain in the oven for more than 4 hours at 105±5 oC. The sample should be cooled before testing.
Quantity of sample sieved should be sufficient for 2 tests.

2.2 The sample should fill the 150 mm nominal diameter cylinder/mould to a depth of about 100
mm after tamping. The correct amount of material to be used for the test may be found conveniently
by filling the cylindrical steel measure (115 mm diameter and 180 mm depth) in three equal layers,
each layer being given 25 blows of the tamping rod (from a height of approximately 50mm). The
measure should be levelled off, using the tamping rod as a straight edge. The final sample weight,
(Weight A) should be determined. The samples prepared in this manner are required for the test.

NOTE: For the 2nd test use the same weight of sample as taken for the 1st test.

3. Test Procedure:
3.1 The cylinder/mould of the test apparatus is placed on the base plate and the test sample added in
three equal layers. Each layer should be compacted with 25 blows of the tamping rod.
Aggregates

3.2 The surface of the sample should be carefully levelled and the steel plunger inserted so that it
rests horizontally on the surface of the sample. Care should be taken to ensure the plunger does not
jam in the cylinder.

3.3 The apparatus with the test sample and plunger in position is then placed between the platens of
the crushing machine, and the load is slowly applied, at a uniform rate, so that the total load of 400
KN (for the larger cylinder) is reached in 10 minutes.

NOTE: As mentioned earlier mould of 150 mm nominal diameter should be used for ACV test. But in special
circumstances when mould of 75 mm nominal diameter is used, the applied load is 100 KN.

3.4 The load is released and the whole of the sample removed from the cylinder without further
breaking the sample. The sample is then sieved on a 2.36mm (#8) sieve, until no further significant
amount passes in one minute. The material passing this sieve is then weighed (weight B).

3.5 The procedure is repeated with the second sample to give two independent determinations. For
the 2nd test same weight of sample as that of the 1st test is to be used.

Figure 3.6: ACV and TFV Testing Apparatus with Dimension

Table - 3.4: Dimensions as per BS-812 for ACV and TFV Test Apparatus
Letter Mould of 150 mm Mould of 75 mm
Items Symbol Description of Dimensions Nominal Nominal Diameter
(Figure 3.6) Diameter (for ACV only )
(for ACV, TFV )
Cylinder A Internal diameter 154±0.5 mm 78±0.5 mm
or Mould B Internal depth 125 to 140 mm 70.0 to 85.0 mm
C Wall thickness at least 16.0 mm at least 8.0 mm
Plunger D Diameter of piston 152±0.5 mm 76.0±0.5 mm
E Diameter of stem 95 to 155 mm 45.0±80.0 mm
F Overall length of piston plus stem 100 to 115 mm 60.0 to 80.0 mm
G Depth of piston at least 25.0 mm atleast19.0 mm
H Diameter (nominal) of hole 20.0 mm 10.0 mm
Base- I Thickness (nominal) 6 mm 6 mm
plate J Length of each side of square 200 to 230 mm 110 to 115 mm
Aggregates

Hardness: The apparatus should be temperature treated and should have sufficient hardness. The
surfaces in contact with aggregates should not show major scratch/deep mark/etc. after
repeated tests.

4. Calculation:
B
4.1 Percentage of the fraction passing the 2.36mm ((#8)) sieve  100
A
where
A = Mass of surface-dry sample, and
B = Mass of the fraction passing the 2.36 ((#8)) sieve

4.2 The average of the two determinations is taken as the ACV.

5. Reporting of Results:

The Aggregate Crushing Value (ACV) is reported to the nearest whole number.
 IX. TEN-PERCENT FINES VALUE TEST (BS-812)

1. General Discussion:

1.1 The Ten-percent Fines Value (TFV) test gives a measure of the resistance of an aggregate to
crushing which is applicable to both weak and strong aggregates. In case of weaker aggregates
which give ACV values higher then 30, the results are unreliable. For these material, the TFV test
should be used.

1.2 TFV test is very similar to the Aggregate Crushing Value (ACV) test and utilises the same
equipment. In TFV test the sample is initially prepared using a cylindrical steel measure of 115 mm.
diameter and 180 mm. depth and compacted using a 16 mm. diameter steel tamping rod of 450 to
600 mm. length with one end rounded. However, instead of determining the percentage of fines
produced by a load of 400 KN, as in the ACV test, the Ten-percent Fines Value (TFV) is the load
required to produce 10% of fines.

NOTE: Only the larger size (150 mm nominal internal diameter) mould is used in the TFV test. Figure 3.6 and Table
3.4 (previous Article) describe the dimension of apparatus.

2. Sample Preparation:

2.1 The method of preparation is identical to ACV test. However, care must be taken not to break
particles of weak aggregates during compaction. The material for the test consists of aggregates
passing a 14.0 mm sieve and retained on a 10.0 mm. sieve. The sample should be surface dry. If an
oven is used for drying, the sample should not remain in the oven for more than 4 hours at 105±5 oC.
The sample should be cooled before testing . Quantity of sample sieved should be sufficient for
three or more tests (depending on the initial results) .

2.2 The sample should fill the 150 mm nominal diameter cylinder/mould to a depth of about 100
mm after tamping. The correct amount of material to be used for the test may be found conveniently
by filling the cylindrical steel measure (115 mm diameter and 180 mm depth ) in three equal layers,
each layer being given 25 blows of the tamping rod (from a height of approximately 50 mm). The
measure should be levelled off, using the tamping rod as a straight edge. The final sample weight,
(Weight A) should be determined. The samples prepared in this manner are required for the test.

NOTE: For the 2nd or subsequent tests; use the same weight of sample as taken for the 1st trial/ test.

3. Test Procedure:

3.1 The sample is compacted in the steel cylinder/mould and the plunger positioned in an identical
manner to that described in ACV test. But in TFV test only 150 mm nominal diameter mould or
cylinder is used. The cylinder/mould of the test apparatus is placed on the base plate and the test
sample added in three equal layers. Each layer should be compacted with 25 blows of the tamping
rod.

3.2 The surface of the sample should be carefully levelled and the steel plunger inserted so that it
rests horizontally on the surface of the sample. Care should be taken to ensure the plunger does not
jam in the cylinder.
Aggregates

3.3 The apparatus with the test sample and plunger in position is then placed between the platens of
the crushing machine, and the load is applied at a uniform rate so as to cause a total penetration of
the plunger in 10 min. of about:

a. 15 mm. for rounded or partly-rounded aggregates(uncrushed)

b. 20 mm. for normal crushed aggregates
c. 24 mm. for honeycombed aggregates

NOTE: The plunger may be suitably marked with the required penetration prior to applying the load.

3.4 The maximum load applied (F) should be recorded.

3.5 The force is released and the sample discharged onto a clean tray. A rubber mallet should be
used to remove the sample to prevent further crushing of the particles. A stiff brush should be used
to remove any fine particles adhering to the plunger or mould.
3.6 The whole sample is then sieved on a 2.36 mm. (#8) sieve until no more significant amount of
material passes in one minute. The weight of material passing the sieve is determined. %passing is
determined as the following:
B
%of material passing the 2.36 mm. sieve, Y  A 100
where
B = weight of material passing 2.36 mm (#8) sieve
A = original sample weight

3.7 The percentage of material passing as determined by the above formula should lie between 7.5
and 12.5 percent. If the percentage passing is not within this range, a new maximum applied load
should be calculated using the formula:
14 F
Force required ( KN )  Y  4
where
F = maximum force applied in initial test in KN and
Y = %of fines from initial test / trial

3.8 The test is then repeated using a fresh sample and the new calculated maximum force (in 10
minutes), and disregarding the total penetration. The percentage of fines from the repeat test should
be between 7.5 and 12.5 percent. Once a test has given a result between 7.5 and 12.5 percent of
fines, a second determination is made on a fresh sample using the same applied load.

4. Calculation:

The percentage of fines from each of the two determinations is calculated and the mean value is
taken (Y). The Ten-percent Fines Value is then calculated from the formula:
14 F
Force required to produce 10% fines or AIV ( KN )  Y  4
where
F = maximum force applied ( KN ) and
Y = mean percentage of fines determined

5. Reporting of Results:

Ten-percent Fines Value (TFV) is generally reported to the nearest whole number.
 X. AGGREGATE IMPACT VALUE TEST (BS 812)

1. General Discussion:

1.1 The Aggregate Impact Value (AIV) gives a relative measure of the resistance of an aggregate to
sudden shock or impact, which in some aggregates differs from its resistance to a slowly applied
compressive load. With aggregates of Aggregate Impact Value higher than 30 the result may be
anomalous. Also, aggregate sizes larger than 14.0 mm are not appropriate to the aggregate impact
test.

1.2 The standard aggregate impact test shall be made on aggregates passing a 14.0 mm test sieve
and retained on a 10.0 mm test sieve. In general, the smaller sizes of aggregates will give a lower
impact value but the relationship between the values obtained with different sizes may vary from
one aggregate to another.

2. Apparatus:

2.1 An AIV testing machine of the general form shown in the Figure 3.7 and complying with the
following:

Figure 3.7: Aggregate Impact Value (AIV) Testing Apparatus with Dimension
Aggregates
- Total mass not more than 60 kg nor less than 45 kg.

- The machine shall have a circular metal base weighing between 22 kg and 30 kg, with a plane
lower surface of not less than 300 mm diameter, and shall be supported on a level and plane
concrete or stone block or floor at least 450 mm thick .The machine shall be prevented from
rocking either by fixing it to the block or the floor.

- A cylindrical steel cup having an internal diameter of 102 mm and an internal depth of 50 mm.
The wall shall be not less than 6 mm thick and the inner surfaces shall be case hardened
(temperature treated). The cup shall be rigidly fastened at the centre of the base and be easily
removed for emptying.

- A metal hammer weighing 13.5 kg to 14.0 kg the lower end of which shall be cylindrical in shape,
100 mm diameter and 50 mm long with a 1.5 mm chamfer at the lower edge, and case hardened.
The hammer shall slide freely between vertical guides so arranged that the lower (cylindrical ) part
of the hammer is above and concentric with the cup.

- Means for raising the hammer and allowing it to fall freely between the vertical guides from a
height of 380+5 mm on to the test sample in the cup, and means for adjusting the height of fall
within 5 mm.

- Means for supporting the hammer whilst fastening or removing the cup.

- Some means for automatically recording the number of blows is required also.

2.2 Test sieves of a aperture sizes 14.0 mm, 10.0 mm and 2.36 mm (#8), for a standard test.

2.3 A cylindrical metal measure of sufficient rigidity to retain its form under rough usage and with
an internal diameter of 75+1mm and an internal depth of 50+1 mm.

2.4 A straight metal tamping rod of circular cross section, 10 mm diameter, 230 mm long, rounded
at one end.

2.5 A balance of capacity not less than 500 gm, and accurate to 0.1 gm.

3. Sample Preparation:

3.1 The material for the standard test shall consist of aggregate passing a 14.0 mm BS test sieve and
retained on a 10.0 mm BS test sieve and shall be thoroughly separated on these sieves before testing.
The quantity of aggregates sieved out shall be sufficient for two tests.

3.2 The aggregates shall be tested in a surface-dry condition. If dried by heating, the period of
drying shall not exceed 4 h, the temperature shall not exceed 110oC and the samples shall be cooled
to room temperature before testing.

3.3 The measure shall be filled about one third full with the aggregates by means of a scoop, the
aggregates being discharged from a height not exceeding 50 mm above the top of the container. The
aggregates shall then be tamped with 25 blows of the rounded end of the tamping rod, each blow
being given by allowing the tamping rod to fall freely from a height of about 50 mm above the
surface of the aggregates and the blows being evenly distributed over the surface. A further similar
quantity of aggregates shall be added in the same manner and a further tamping of 25 blows given.
The measure shall finally be filled to overflowing, tamped 25 times and the surplus aggregates
Aggregates
removed by rolling the tamping rod across, and in contact with the top of the container, any
aggregate which impedes its progress being removed by hand and aggregates being added to fill any
obvious depressions. The net mass of aggregates in the measure shall be recorded (mass A) and the
same mass to be used for the second test.

4. Test Procedure:

4.1 Rest the impact machine, without wedging or packing, upon the level plate, block or floor, so
that it is rigid and the hammer guide columns are vertical.

4.2 Fix the cup firmly in position on the base of the machine and place the whole of the test sample
in it and compact by a single tamping of 25 strokes of the tamping rod as above.

4.3 Adjust the height of the hammer so that its lower face is 380+5 mm above the upper surface of
the aggregates in the cup and then allow it to fall freely on to the aggregates. Subject the test sample
to a total of 15 such blows, each being delivered at an interval of not less than 1 sec. No adjustment
for hammer height is required after the first blow.

4.4 Then remove the crushed aggregates by holding the cup over a clean tray and hammering on the
outside with a suitable rubber mallet until the sample particles are sufficiently disturbed to enable
the mass of the sample to fall freely on to the tray. Transfer fine particles adhering to the inside of
the cup and the underside of the hammer to the tray by means of a stiff bristle brush . Sieve the
whole of the sample in the tray, for the standard test, on the 2.36 mm (#8) test sieve until no further
significant amount passes in 1 min.

NOTE: Weigh the fractions passing and retained on the sieve to an accuracy of 0.1 gm ( mass B and mass C
respectively), and if the total mass B+C is less than the initial mass ( mass A ) by more than 1 gm, discard
the result and make a fresh test .

4.5 Repeat the whole procedure starting from the beginning using a second sample of the same
mass as the first sample.

5. Calculation:

5.1 The ratio of the mass of fines formed to the total sample mass in each test shall be expressed as
a percentage, the result being recorded to the first decimal place.
B 100
Percentage of the fraction passing the 2.36mm (#8) sieve  A
where
A = weight of surface-dry sample
B = weight of fraction passing the 2.36 mm ((#8)) sieve

5.2 The average of two determinations is taken as the Aggregate Impact Value (AIV).

6. Reporting of Results:

Aggregate Impact Value (AIV) is reported to the nearest whole number.

Special Feature
ACV, TFV, AIV are the BS (British Standard) tests.
 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ENGINEERING DEPARTMNET

RDP NO.: ISP LABORATORY AT: DHAKA_

________________________________________________________________________________________________
STRENGTH OF COARSE AGGREGATE BY AGGREGATE IMPACT
VALUE(AIV)/AGGREGATE CRUSHING VALUE (ACV)/TEN-PERCENT FINES VALUE
(TFV) TEST (BS 812)

Client: SALS/ISP,LGED Central Laboratory Memo no./Ref., Date:

_________________________
Scheme: Testing & Quality Control Manual of LGED Location: LGED Central Laboratory,
Dhaka_____

Sample No.: SC - 5 Type of Specimen: Stone-Chips (crushed) Sampled by & Date : SALS,
15.05.94
Quantity Collected from Field: 25 Kg Quantity Represented: 60 m3 (roughly)__
Laboratory Register No.: ----- Date of Test: 15.05.94______

Diameter of ACV/TFV Test Mould: 154 mm_ Grading: 14.0 mm Sieve Passing & 10.0 mm Sieve
Retained
ACV Loading Rate : 400 KN in 10 min. AIV Hammer Wt., Drop, Blow No.: 14Kg., 380mm., 15
respectively_
1st Trial Penetration(TFV): 15mm (uncrushed, partially rounded)/ 20mm (crushed)/24mm (honey combed
aggregate___

Trial/ % Passing 2.36mm Sieve For TFV Test only

Test Wt. of Material, gm. . Individual Average Maximum Repeat Test
No. Surface-Dry Passing 2.36 B 100 or Applied Load, KN Remarks &
Sample(A) mm sieve(B) ( ) (Y ) 14 F Results
A Load(F),KN ( )
Y 4
AIV
1. 331.9 96.9 29.2 } ---- AIV = 29 %
2. 331.9 94.3 28.4 } 28.8

ACV
1. 3013 1006 33.4} ---- ACV = 34%
2. 3013 1022 33.9} 33.7 ( since > 30% so
TFV test is
recommended)

TFV
Trial 3017 459 15.2 176 128 } Test is
(not within 7.5-12.5%) (20mm pen.)____ } Repeated
1. 3017 337 128 }from previous 14 F
2. 3017 324 11.2} 128 } trial TFV 
10.7} 11.0
Y 4
= 119 KN

- With aggregate of AIV higher than 30% the result may be anomalous

- For weaker aggregate having ACV higher then 30%, the results are unreliable & TFV test should be used

- For TFV test, %passing should be within between 7.5% and 12.5%

Tested by: A. K. Azad (Material Technician)

_________________________________________________________
Comments of the Laboratory In-charge : AIV result: 29%} Any one result is sufficient TFV result-119
KN}_______
Either AIV or ACV/TFV test to be done in a particular project of BS specification__________________________

Signed by: Masud Ahmed, SALS, ISP, LGED Central Laboratory, Dhaka,15.05.94________________________
XI. STANDARD TEST METHOD (ASTM C 29) FOR
UNIT WEIGHT AND VOIDS IN AGGREGATES

1. Scope & Significance, Use:

1.1 This test method covers the determination of unit weight in a compacted or loose condition and
calculated voids in fine, coarse, or mixed aggregates based on the same determination. This test
method is applicable to aggregates not exceeding 150 mm (6 in.) in nominal maximum size.

1.2 This test method is often used to determine unit weight values that are necessary for use for
many methods of selecting proportions for concrete mixtures.

1.3 The unit weight may also be used for determining mass/volume relationships for conversions in
purchase agreements. However, the relationship between degree of compaction of aggregates in a
hauling unit or stockpile and that achieved in this test method is unknown. Further, aggregates in
hauling units and stockpiles usually contain absorbed and surface moisture (the later affecting
bulking), while this test method determines the unit weight on a dry basis.

1.4 A procedure is included for computing the percentage of voids between the aggregate particles
based on the unit weight determined by this test method.

2. Apparatus:

2.1 Balance: A balance or scale accurate within 0.1% of the test load at any point within the range
of use, graduated to at least 0.05 Kg.

2.2 Tamping Rod: A round, straight steel rod, 16mm (5/8 in.) in diameter and approximately 600
mm (24 in.) in length, having one end rounded to a hemispherical tip of the same diameter as the
rod.

2.3 Measure: A cylindrical metal measure, preferably provided with handles. It shall be watertight,
with the top and bottom true and even and sufficiently rigid to retain its form under rough usage.
The measure shall have a height approximately equal to the diameter, but in no case shall the height
be less than 80% nor more than 150% of the diameter. The capacity of the measure shall conform to
the limits in Table 3.5 for the aggregate size to be tested. The thickness of metal in the measure shall
be as described in Table 3.5. The top rim shall be smooth and plane within 0.25 mm (0.01 in.) and
shall be parallel to the bottom within 0.5o (Note).

NOTE: The top rim is satisfactorily plane if a 0.25 mm (0.01 in.) feeler gage cannot be inserted between the rim and
a piece of 6 mm (1/4 in.) or thicker plate glass laid over the measure. The top and bottom are satisfactorily
parallel if the slope between pieces of plate glass in contact with the top and bottom does not exceed 0.87%
in any direction.
Aggregates

Table-3.5: Capacity of Measures

Nominal Maximal Size of Thickness of Measure
Aggregate Capacity of Measure Bottom Wall
mm in. Litre (m 3) ft 3 mm (in.) mm (in.)

½ 1
12.5 2.8 (0.0028) /10 5.0 (0.2) 2.5 (0.1)
1
25 1 9.3 (0.0093) /3 5.0 (0.2) 2.5 (0.1)
37.5 1.5 14 (0.014) ½ 5.0 (0.2) 5.0 (0.2)
75 3 28 (0.028) 1 5.0 (0.2) 5.0 (0.2)

NOTE: The indicated size of measure shall be used to test aggregates of a nominal maximum size equal to or smaller
than that listed. The actual volume of the measure shall be at least 95% of the nominal volume.

2.4 Shovel or Scoop: A shovel or scoop of convenient size for filling the measure with aggregates.

2.5 Calibration Equipment: A piece of plate glass, preferably at least 6mm (1/4 in.) thick and at
least 25 mm (1in.) larger than the diameter of the measure to be calibrated. A supply of water-pump
or chassis grease that can be placed on the rim of the container to prevent leakage.

Figure 3.8: Unit Weight Bucket of Different Size

3. Sampling:

Sampling should generally be accomplished in accordance with Practice ASTM D-75 and sample
reduction in accordance with Practice ASTM C-702 (described in previous articles).

4. Test Sample:

The size of the sample shall be approximately 125 to 200% of the quantity required to fill the
measure, and shall be handled in a manner to avoid segregation. Dry the aggregate sample to
essentially constant mass, preferably in an oven at 110±5oC.

5. Calibration of Measure:

5.1 Fill the measure with water at room temperature and cover with a piece of plate glass in such a
way as to eliminate bubbles and excess water.

5.2 Determine the mass of the water in the measure.

5.3 Measure the temperature of the water and determine its density from Table 3.6, interpolating if
necessary.
5.4 Calculate the volume, V, of the measure by dividing the mass of the water required to fill the
measure by its density in cubic metres. However, for convenience the size of the measure may be
expressed in litres.
Aggregates

5.5 Measures shall be re-calibrated at least once a year or whenever there is reason to question the
accuracy of the calibration.

Table- 3.6: Density of Water

Temperature Density Temperature Density
o 3 o
C Kg/m C Kg/m3
16 999.0 25 997.1
17 998.8 26 996.8
18 998.6 27 996.6
19 998.4 28 996.3
20 998.2 29 996.0
21 998.0 30 995.7
22 997.8 31 995.4
23 997.6 32 995.1
24 997.3 33 994.8

6. Selection of Procedure:

The shoveling procedure for loose unit weight shall be used only when specifically stipulated.
Otherwise, the compact unit weight shall be determined by the rodding procedure for aggregates
having a nominal maximum size of 37.5 mm (1.5 in.) or less, or by the jigging procedure for
aggregates having a nominal maximum size greater than 37.5 mm (1.5 in.) and not exceeding 150
mm (6 in.).

7. Rodding Procedure:

7.1 Fill the measure one-third full and level the surface with the fingers. Rod the layer of
aggregates with 25 strokes of the tamping rod evenly distributed over the surface. Fill the measure
two-third full and again level and rod as above. Finally, fill the measure to overflowing and rod
again in the manner previously mentioned. Level the surface of the aggregates with the fingers or a
straightedge in such a way that any slight projections of the larger pieces of the coarse aggregates
approximately balance the larger voids in the surface below the top of the measure.

7.2 In rodding the first layer, do not allow the rod to strike the bottom of the measure forcibly. In
rodding the second and third layers, use vigorous effort, but not more force than to cause the
tamping rod to penetrate to the previous layer of aggregate.

NOTE: In rodding the larger sizes of coarse aggregate, it may not be possible to penetrate the layer being
consolidated, especially with angular aggregates. The intent of the procedure will be accomplished if
vigorous effort is used.

7.3 Determine the mass of the measure plus its contents, and the mass of the measure alone, and
record the values to the nearest 0.05 Kg.

8. Jigging Procedure:

8.1 Fill the measure in three approximately equal layers as described in 7.1, compacting each layer
by placing the measure on a firm base, such as a cement- concrete floor, raising the opposite sides
Aggregates

alternately about 50 mm (2 in.) and allowing the measure to drop in such a manner as to hit with a
sharp, slapping blow. The aggregate particles, by this procedure, will arrange themselves in a
densely compacted condition. Compact each layer by dropping the measure 50 times in the manner
described, 25 times on each side. Level the surface of the aggregates with the fingers or a
straightedge in such a way that any slight projections of the larger pieces of the coarse aggregates
approximately balance the larger voids in the surface below the top of the measure.

8.2 Determine the mass of the measure plus its contents, and the mass of the measure alone, and
record the values to the nearest 0.05 Kg.

9. Shovelling Procedure:

9.1 Fill the measure to overflowing by means of a shovel or scoop, discharging the aggregates from
a height not to exceed 50 mm (2 in.) above the top of the measure. Exercise care to prevent, so far
as possible, segregation of the particle sizes of which the sample is composed. Level the surface of
the aggregates with the fingers or a straightedge in such a way that any slight projections of the
larger pieces of the coarse aggregates approximately balance the larger voids in the surface below
the top of the measure.

9.1 Determine the mass of the measure plus its contents, and the mass of the measure alone, and
record the values to the nearest 0.05 Kg.

10. Calculation:

10.1 Unit Weight: Calculate the unit weight as follows:

G-T
M =
V
where
M = unit weight of the aggregates, Kg/m3 (lb/ft3 )
G = mass of the aggregates plus the measure, Kg (lb.)
T = mass of the measure, Kg (lb.)
V = volume of the measure, m3 (ft3)

The unit weight determined by this test method is for aggregates in an oven-dry condition. If the
unit weight in terms of saturated-surface-dry (SSD) condition is desired, use the exact procedure in
this test method and then calculate the SSD unit weight using the following formula:
A
M SSD  M  ( 1  )
100
where
M = unit weight in SSD condition, lb/ft3 (Kg/m3) and
A= % absorption, determined in accordance with ASTM C 127 or C 128 (mentioned later in this
Chapter)
10.2 Void Content: Calculate the void content in the aggregates using the unit weight determined
as follows:

S W  M
% Voids =  100
S W
where
Aggregates

M = unit weight of the aggregate, Kg/m3 (lb/ft3)

S = bulk specific gravity (dry basis) as determined in accordance with ASTM C 127 or C 128
W = density of the water, 998 Kg/m3 ( 62.3 lb/ft3 )

11. Report:

Report the results for the unit weight to the nearest 10 Kg/m 3 (1 lb/ft3), the void content to the
nearest 1% and mention the method used.
 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ENGINEERING DEPARTMNET

RDP NO.: ISP LABORATORY AT: DHAKA_

UNIT WEIGHT OF COARSE AGGREGATE (ASTM C 29)

Client: A. R. Khan, Consultant of RDP-7, LGED Memo no./Ref., Date: As per previous
instruction_________

Scheme: RDP-7, LGED Location: ----

___________________________

Sample No. : BA-17 Type of Specimen: Brick-Aggregates Sampled by & Date: not
mentioned

Quantity Collected from Field: ----- Quantity Represented : -----__

Laboratory Register No.: ISP/UW/01/92-93 Date of Test : 21.11.92_

Maximum Size of Aggregate: 37.5 mm State of Aggregate: Oven - dried at

110oC/S.S.D_________

Method of Compaction : RODDING/JIGGING /SHOVELING Water Absorption(for SSD Unit Wt.): ----
__

Mould Calibration:

Wt. of Water to fill the Selected Size of Mould: 14.394 Kg Water Temperature: 26 o C___

Water Density: 996.8 Kg/m3 Actual Volume of Mould : 0.01444 m3___

Wt. of Wt. of Unit Wt. Result

Test No. Aggregate Wt. of Mould, Aggregate in of Aggregate, and
+ Mould Kg Mould, Kg/m3 Remark
Kg Kg

1 14.599 13.475 933.2

} }
} }Av.944 Kg/m3
2 14.724 }} 1.124 13.600 941.8 } (Oven-Dry
} } basis)
} }
3 14.945 13.821 957.1

Note: - 1 lb/ft3 = 16.018 Kg/m3

- S.S.D. Unit Wt. = Oven Dry Unit Wt. ( 1 + Water Absorption / 100 )
- As per ASTM, average of three test ( as shown above ) is not required .
- Mould size required as per ASTM:

Max. Size of Aggregate, mm(inch) 12.5 (1/2) 25 ( 1 ) 37.5 (1.5) 75 ( 3 )

Capacity of Mould Required, Litre (ft3) 2.8 (1/10) 9.3(1/3) 14(1/2) 28(1)
Tested by : Zeauddin (Laboratory Technician) _____
.

Comments of the Laboratory In-charge: Same aggregate specimen have been used in the three
tests._____________

Signed by : Masud Ahmed, SALS, ISP, LGED Central Laboratory, Dhaka, 22.11.92______________________
 XII. STANDARD TEST METHOD (ASTM C 127) FOR SPECIFIC
GRAVITY AND ABSORPTION OF COARSE AGGREGATES

1. Scope:

This test method covers the determination of specific gravity and absorption of coarse aggregate.
The specific gravity may be expressed as bulk specific gravity, bulk specific gravity (SSD)
(saturated-surface-dry), or apparent specific gravity. The bulk specific gravity (SSD) and absorption
are based on aggregate after 24 h soaking in water. This test method is not intended to be used with
lightweight aggregates.

2. Terminology:

Absorption: the increase in the weight of aggregate due to water in the pores of the material, but not
including water adhering to the outside surface of the particles, expressed as a percentage of the dry
weight. The aggregate is considered "dry" when it has been maintained at a temperature of 110±5 oC
for sufficient time to remove all uncombined water.

Specific Gravity: the ratio of the mass (or weight in air) of a unit volume of a material to the mass
of the same volume of water at stated temperatures. Values are dimensionless.

Apparent Specific Gravity: the ratio of the weight in air of a unit volume of the impermeable
portion of aggregate at a stated temperature to the weight in air of an equal volume of gas-free
distilled water at a stated temperature.

Bulk Specific Gravity: the ratio of the weight in air of a unit volume of aggregate (including the
permeable and impermeable voids in the particles, but not including the voids between particles) at a
stated temperature to the weight in air of an equal volume of gas free distilled water at a stated
temperature.

Bulk Specific Gravity (SSD: the ratio of the weight in air of a unit volume of aggregate, including
the weight of water within the voids filled to the extent achieved by submerging in water for
approximately 24 h (but not including the voids between particles) at a stated temperature,
compared to the weight in air of an equal volume of gas-free distilled water at a stated temperature.

3. Summary of Test Method:

A sample of aggregates is immersed in water for approximately 24h to essentially fill the pores. It is
then removed from the water, the water dried from the surface of the particles, and weighed.
Subsequently the sample is weighed while submerged in water. Finally the sample is oven-dried and
weighed a third time. Using the weights thus obtained and using the formulas in this test method, it
is possible to calculate three types of specific gravity and absorption.

4. Significance and Use:

4.1 Bulk specific gravity is the characteristic generally used for calculation of the volume occupied
by the aggregate in various mixtures containing aggregate, including Portland cement concrete,
bituminous concrete and other mixtures that are proportioned or analysed on an absolute volume
Aggregates
basis. Bulk specific gravity is also used in the computation of voids in aggregate in Test Method
ASTM C 29.

Bulk specific gravity (SSD) is used if the aggregate is wet, that is, if its absorption has been
satisfied. Conversely, the bulk specific gravity (oven-dry) is used for computations when the
aggregate is dry or assumed to be dry.

4.2 Apparent specific gravity pertains to the relative density of the solid material making up the
constituent particles not including the pore space within the particles which is accessible to water.

4.3 Absorption values are used to calculate the change in the weight of an aggregate due to water
absorbed in the pore spaces within the constituent particles, compared to the dry condition, when it
is deemed that the aggregate has been in contact with water long enough to satisfy most of the
absorption potential. The laboratory standard for absorption is that obtained after submerging dry
aggregate for approximately 24 h in water. Aggregates mined from below the water table may have
a higher absorption, when used, if not allowed to dry. Conversely, some aggregates when used may
contain an amount of absorbed moisture less than the 24-h soaked condition. For an aggregate that
has been in contact with water and that has free moisture on the particle surfaces, the percentage of
free moisture can be determined by deducting the absorption from the total moisture content
determined by Test Method ASTM C 566.

4.4 The general procedures described in this test method are suitable for determining the absorption
of aggregates that have had conditioning other than the 24-h soak, such as boiling water or vacuum
saturation. The values obtained for absorption by other test methods will be different from the
values obtained by the prescribed 24-h soak, as will the bulk specific gravity (SSD).

4.5 The pores in lightweight aggregates may or may not become essentially filled with water after
immersion for 24 h. In fact, many such aggregates can remain immersed in water for several days
without satisfying most of the aggregates' absorption potential. Therefore, this test method is not
intended for use with lightweight aggregate.

5. Apparatus: (Only the special apparatus for the test is described)

Sample Container: A wire basket of 3.35 mm (#6) or finer mesh, or a bucket of approximately
equal breadth and height, with a capacity of 4 to 7 L for 37.5 mm (1.5 in) nominal maximum size
aggregate or smaller, and a larger container as needed for testing larger maximum size aggregate.
The container shall be constructed so as to prevent trapping air when the container is submerged.

Figure 3.9: Wire Basket

6. Sampling:
Aggregates

6.1 Sample the aggregate in accordance with Practice ASTM D 75.

6.2 Thoroughly mix the sample of aggregate and reduce it to the approximate quantity needed using
the applicable procedures in Methods ASTM C-702. Reject all material passing a 4.75 mm (No. 4)
sieve by dry sieving and thoroughly washing to remove dust or other coatings from the surface. If
the coarse aggregate contains a substantial quantity of material finer than the 4.75 mm sieve, use the
2.36 mm ((#8)) sieve in place of the 4.75 mm sieve. Alternatively, separate the material finer than
the 4.75 mm sieve and test the finer material according to Test Method ASTM C-128 (mentioned
earlier).

6.3 The minimum weight of test sample to be used is given below. In many instances it may be
desirable to test a coarse aggregate in several separate size fractions ; and if the sample contains
more than 15% retained on the 37.5 mm (1.5 in )sieve, test the material larger than 37.5 mm in one
or more size fractions separately from the smaller size fractions. When an aggregate is tested in
separate size fractions, the minimum weight of test sample for each fraction shall be the difference
between the weights prescribed for the maximum and minimum sizes of the fraction .

Nominal Maximum Size Minimum Weight of Test Sample

mm (in) Kg (lb.)___
12.5 (1/2) or less 2 (4.4)
19.0 (3/4) 3 (6.6)
25.0 (1) 4 (8.8)
37.5 (1.5) 5 (11)
50 (2) 8 (18)
63 (2.5) 12 (26)
75 (3) 18 (40)

6.4 If the sample is tested in two or more size fractions, determine the grading of the sample
including the sieves used for separating the size fractions for the determinations in this method. In
calculating the percentage of material in each size fraction, ignore the quantity of material finer than
the 4.75 mm (#4) sieve or 2.36 mm (#8) sieve when that sieve is used in accordance with 6.2).

7. Procedure:

7.1 Dry the test sample to constant weight at a temperature of 110±5 oC, cool in air at room
temperature for 1 to 3 h for test samples of 37.5mm (1-1/2 in.) nominal maximum size, or longer for
larger sizes until the aggregate has cooled to a temperature that is comfortable to handle
(approximately 50oC). Subsequently immerse the aggregate in water at room temperature for a
period of 24±4 h.

NOTE: When testing coarse aggregate of large nominal maximum size requiring large test samples, it may be more
convenient to perform the test on two or more sub-sample, and the values obtained combined for the
computations described later.

7.2 Where the absorption and specific gravity values are to be used in proportioning concrete
mixtures in which the aggregates will be in their naturally moist condition, the requirement for
initial drying to constant weight may be eliminated, and, if the surfaces of the particles in the sample
have been kept continuously wet until test, the 24-h soaking may also be eliminated.

NOTE: Values for absorption and bulk specific gravity (SSD) may be significantly higher for aggregate not oven
dried before soaking. This is especially true of particles larger than 75 mm (3 in.) since the water may not
be able to penetrate the pores to the centre of the particle in the prescribed soaking period.
7.3 Remove the test sample from the water and roll it in a larger absorbent cloth until all visible
films of water are removed. Wipe the larger particles individually. A moving stream of air may be
Aggregates
used to assist in the drying operation. Take care to avoid evaporation of water from aggregate pores
during the operation of surface-drying. Weigh the test sample in the saturated surface-dry condition.
Record this and all subsequent weights to the nearest 0.5 gm or 0.05% of the sample weight,
whichever is greater.

7.4 After weighing, immediately place the saturated-surface dry test sample in the sample container
and determine its weight in water at 23±1.7 oC, having a density of 9979±2 Kg/m 3. Take care to
remove all entrapped air before weighing by shaking the container while immersed.

7.5 Dry the test sample to constant weight at a temperature of 110±5 oC, cool in air at room
temperature 1 to 3 h, or until the aggregate has cooled to a temperature that is comfortable to handle
(approximately 50oC), and weigh.

8. Calculations:

8.1 Specific Gravity

Bulk Specific Gravity: Calculate the bulk specific gravity 23/23oC, as follows:
A
Bulk Sp. Gr. = B  C

Bulk Specific Gravity (Saturated-Surface-Dry): Calculate the bulk specific gravity, 23/23oC, on the
basis of weight of saturated-surface-dry aggregate as follows:
B
Bulk Sp. Gr. (saturated-surface-dry) = B  C

Apparent Specific Gravity: Calculate the apparent specific gravity, 23/23oC, as follows:
A
Apparent Sp. Gr. = A  C

In the above equations

A = weight of oven-dry test sample in air, gm
B = weight of saturated-surface-dry test sample in air, gm
C = weight of saturated test sample in water, gm

8.2 Average Specific Gravity Values: When the sample is tested in separate size fractions the
average value for bulk specific gravity, bulk specific gravity (SSD), or apparent specific gravity can
be computed as the weighted averaged of the values as computed in accordance with 8.1 using the
following equation:
1
G
P1 P2 Pn
 .......
100 G1 100 G 2 100 Gn
where
G = average specific gravity. All forms of expression of specific gravity can be averaged
in this manner
G1, G2,...Gn = appropriate specific gravity values for each size fraction depending on the type of
specific gravity being averaged
P1, P2,…Pn = Weight percentages of each size fraction present in the original sample
NOTE: Some users of this test method may wish to express the results in terms of density. Density may be determined
by multiplying the bulk specific gravity, bulk specific gravity (SSD), or apparent specific gravity by the
weight of water 997.5 Kg/m 3 or 0.9975 Mg/m 3 (62.27 lb/ft3) at 23oC. Some authorities recommend using the
density of water at 4oC of 1000 Kg/m3 or 1.000 Mg/m 3 62.43 lb/f3) as being sufficiently accurate. The density
Aggregates
terminology corresponding to bulk specific gravity, bulk specific gravity (SSD), and apparent specific gravity
has not been standardised.

8.3 Absorption: Calculate the percentage of absorption as follows:

B A
Absorption, % = 100
A

8.4 Average Absorption Value: When the sample is tested in separate size fractions, the average
absorption value is the average of the values as computed in 8.3, weighted in proportion to the
weight percentages of the size fractions in the original sample as follows:

P1  A1 P 2  A2 Pn  An
A  ....
100 100 100
where
A = average absorption, %
A1, A2...An = absorption percentages for each size fraction and
P1, P2...Pn = weight percentage of each size fraction present in the original sample

9. Report:

9.1 Report specific gravity results to the nearest 0.01, and indicate the type of specific gravity,
whether bulk, bulk (saturated-surface-dry), or apparent.

9.2 Report the absorption result to the nearest 0.1%.

9.3 If the specific gravity and absorption values were determined without first drying the aggregate,
it shall be noted in the report.
 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ENGINEERING DEPARTMNET

RDP NO.: ISP LABORATORY AT: DHAKA__

________________________________________________________________________________________________
SPECIFIC GRAVITY AND ABSORPTION TEST
OF COARSE AGGREGATE (ASTM C 127)

Client: Field Resident Engineer, Jamalpur Memo no./Ref., Date: As per previous
letter__________
Scheme: J-4 Road, RDP-13 , Jamalpur Location: Jamalpur-
Bhuruakhali__________________

Sample No.: BA-12 Type of Specimen: Brick-Aggregate Sampled by & Date: Not
mentioned__
Quantity Collected from Field: About 40 Kg Quantity Represented: Not
mentioned______________
Laboratory Register No.: ISP/SPGC/108 /92-93 Date of Test: 05.12.92_

Approx. Capacity of Wire Basket: 6.1 Litre Nominal Max. Aggregate Size : 25 mm Sieve for separating
Finer Particles(if excessive amount): Total Specimen Tested(since negligible) /(#4)
sieve___________________________
%Coarser Portion(retained on (#4) sieve), P 1: __Not Applicable__ % of Finer Portion,P2: ____Not
Applicable___

Description Test No.

Test - 1 Test - 2 Test - 3
Wt. of SSD Specimen in Air ( B ), gm 4740.5

Wt.of Saturated Specimen in Water (C), gm 2474.0

Wt. of Oven-Dry Specimen in Air ( A), gm 4214.5

o
Temperature of Water ( T ), C 24.2

Sp.Gr. of Water at T oC ; if other than 23+1.7oC , (GT ) -----

A GT 1.86

Bulk Specific Gravity,23/23oC, B  C G 23
B GT 2.09
Bulk Specific Gravity (SSD), 23/23 oC,  
B  C G 23
A GT 2.42
Apparent Specific Gravity, 23/23 oC,  
A  C G 23
B A 12.5
Water Absorption ,  100 , %
A
Average Specific Gravity , 23/23oC -------- .
Bulk/Bulk (SSD)/Apparent

Average Water Absorption, % --------

NOTE: - Specific Gravity of Water at 23oC (G23) = 0.9976
- As per ASTM average of three tests is not necessary, though provision is kept in the datasheet
 
- Unit Wt. = Sp. Gr. 1000 ( Kg/m3 ) or Sp. Gr. 62.4 ( lb./cf t)
- Combining, if Sp.Gr. of Coarse(C-127) & Fine(C-128) portion is done by separating in (#4) sieve:
 1
 P1 A1 P 2 A2
Av. Sp. Gr. P1 P2 , Av. Absorption   , where P1,P2 are the % of Coarse & Fine Aggregate
 100 100
100 G1 100 G 2
Tested by: Md. Kabir Hossain (Lab Helper)
_________________________________________________________
Comment of Laboratory In-charge: 1. Since small amount passes (#4) sieve,so total specimen have been
.
tested 2._Three types of Specific Gravity results have been calculated, since no information have been
.
given in the_forwarding letter regarding the requirement of the
client.____________________________________

Signed by: Masud Ahmed, SALS, ISP, LGED Central Laboratory, Dhaka, 06.12.92______________________
XIII. STANDARD TEST METHOD (ASTM C 128) FOR SPECIFIC
GRAVITY AND ABSORPTION OF FINE AGGREGATES

1. Scope, Significance and Use:

1.1 This test method covers the determination of bulk and apparent specific gravity, and absorption
of fine aggregate.

1.2 Bulk specific gravity is the characteristic generally used for calculation of the volume occupied
by the aggregates in various mixtures containing aggregates, including Portland cement concrete,
bituminous concrete and other mixtures that are proportioned or analysed on an absolute volume
basis. Bulk specific gravity is also used in the computation of voids in aggregates in Test Method
ASTM C-29 and the determination of moisture in aggregates by displacement in water in Test
Method ASTM C-70. Bulk specific gravity determined on the saturated surface-dry basis is used if
the aggregates are wet, that is, if its absorption has been satisfied. Conversely, the bulk specific
gravity determined on the oven-dry basis is used for computations when the aggregates are dry or
assumed to be dry.

1.3 Absorption values are used to calculate the change in the weight of an aggregate due to water
absorbed in the pore spaces within the constituent particles, compared to the dry condition, when it
is deemed that the aggregate has been in contact with water long enough to satisfy most of the
absorption potential. The laboratory standard for absorption is that obtained after submerging dry
aggregate for approximately 24 h in water. For an aggregate that has been in contact with water and
that has free moisture on the particle surfaces, the percentage of free moisture can be determined by
deducting the absorption from the total moisture content determined by Test Method ASTM C-566
by drying.

2. Apparatus:

2.1 Balance: A balance or scale having a capacity of 1 Kg. or more, sensitive to 0.1 gm or smaller.

2.2 Pycnometer: A flask or other suitable container into which the fine aggregates test sample can
be readily introduced and in which the volume content can be reproduced within ±0.1cm 3. The
volume of the container filed to mark shall be at least 50% greater than the space required to
accommodate the test sample. A volumetric flask of 500 cm 3 capacity or a fruit jar fitted with a
pycnometer top is satisfactory for a 500-gm test sample of most fine aggregates.

Figure 3.10: Pycnometer

Aggregates

2.3 Mould: A metal mould in the form of a frustum of a cone with dimensions as follows: 40±3
mm inside diameter at the top, 90±3 mm inside diameter at the bottom and 75±3 mm in height, with
the metal having a minimum thickness of 0.8 mm.

2.4 Tamper: A metal tamper weighing 340±15 gm and having a flat circular tamping face 25±3
mm in diameter.

Figure 3.11: Mould and Tamper

3. Sampling:

Sampling shall be accomplished in general accordance with Practice ASTM D 75.

4. Preparation of Test Specimen:

4.1 Obtain approximately 1 kg of the fine aggregates from the sample, using the applicable
procedures described in Methods ASTM C 702.

4.1.1 Dry it in a suitable pan or vessel to constant weight at a temperature of 110±5 oC. Allow it to
cool to comfortable handling temperature, cover with water, either by immersion or by the addition
of at least 6% moisture to the fine aggregates and permit to stand for 24±4 h.

4.1.2 As an alternative to 4.1.1, where the absorption and specific gravity values are to be used in
proportioning concrete mixtures with aggregates used in their naturally moist condition, the
requirement for initial drying to constant weight may be eliminated and, if the surfaces of the
particles have been kept wet, the 24-h soaking may also be eliminated.

NOTE: Values for absorption and for specific gravity in the saturated surface -dry condition may be significantly
higher for aggregates not oven dried before soaking than for the same aggregate treated in accordance with
4.1.1.

4.2 Decant excess water with care to avoid loss of fines, spread the sample on a flat non-absorbent
surface exposed to a gently moving current of warm air, and stir frequently to secure homogeneous
drying. If desired, mechanical aids such as tumbling or stirring may be employed to assist in
achieving the saturated surface-dry condition. Continue this operation until the test specimen
approaches a free-flowing condition. Follow the procedure in 4.2.1 to determine whether or not
surface moisture is present on the constituent fine aggregate particles. It is intended that the first trial
of the cone test will be made with some surface water in the specimen. Continue drying with
constant stirring and test at frequent intervals until the test indicates that the specimen has reached a
surface-dry condition. If the first trial of the surface moisture test indicates that moisture is not
Aggregates

present on the surface, it has been dried past the saturated surface-dry condition. In this case
thoroughly mix a few millilitres of water with the fine aggregates and permit the specimen to stand
in a covered container for 30 min. Then resume the process of drying and testing at frequent
intervals for the onset of the surface-dry condition.

4.2.1 Cone Test for Surface Moisture: Hold the mould firmly on a smooth non-absorbent surface
with the large diameter down. Place a portion of the partially dried fine aggregates loosely in the
mould by filling it to overflowing and heaping additional material above the top of the mould by
holding it with the cupped fingers of the hand holding the mould . Lightly tamp the fine aggregates
into the mould with 25 light drops of the tamper. Each drop should start about 5 mm (0.2 in.) above
the top surface of the fine aggregates. Permit the tamper to fall freely under gravitational attraction
on each drop. Adjust the starting height to the new surface elevation after each drop and distribute
the drops over the surface. Remove loose sand from the base and lift the mould vertically. If surface
moisture is still present, the fine aggregates will retain the moulded shape. When the fine aggregates
slumps slightly it indicates that it has reached a surface-dry condition. Some angular fine aggregates
or material with a high proportion of fines may not slump in the cone test upon reaching a
surface-dry condition. This may be the case if fines become airborne upon dropping a handful of the
sand from the cone test 100 to 150 mm onto a surface. For these materials the saturated surface-dry
condition should be considered as the point that one side of the fine aggregates slump slightly upon
removing the mould.

5. Procedure:

5.1 Make and record all weight determinations to 0.1 gm.

5.2 Partially fill the pycnometer with water. Immediately introduce into the pycnometer 500±10 gm
of saturated surface-dry fine aggregates prepared as described in Section 4, and fill with additional
water to approximately 90% of capacity. Roll, invert, and agitate the pycnometer to eliminate all air
bubbles. Adjust its temperature to 23±1.7 oC, if necessary by immersion in circulating water, and
bring the water level in the pycnometer to its calibrated capacity. Determine the total weight of the
pycnometer, specimen and water.
NOTE: It normally takes about 15 to 20 min to eliminate air bubbles.

Alternative to Weighing in 5.2

The quantity of added water necessary to fill the pycnometer at the required temperature may be
determined volumetrically using a burette accurate to 0.15 millilitres (mL) Compute the total weight
of the pycnometer, specimen and water as follows:

C  0.9975  Va + S + W

where
C = weight of pycnometer with specimen and water to calibration mark, gm
Va = volume of water added to pycnometer, mL
S = weight of the saturated surface-dry specimen, gm and
W = weight of the empty pycnometer, gm
5.3 Remove the fine aggregates from the pycnometer, dry to constant weight at a temperature of
110±o5 C, cool in air at room temperature for 1.5 h, and weigh.

5.4 Determine the weight of the pycnometer filled to its calibration capacity with water at
23±1.7oC.
Aggregates

Alternative to Weighing in 5.4

The quantity of water necessary to fill the empty pycnometer at the required temperature may be
determined volumetrically using a burette accurate to 0.15 mL. Calculate the weight of the
pycnometer filled with water as follows :

B 0.9975 V  W
where
B = weight of flask filled with water, gm
V = volume of flask, mL and
W = weight of the empty flask, gm

6. Calculation:

Bulk Specific Gravity

Calculate the bulk specific gravity, 23/23oC, as follows:
A
Bulk Sp. Gr.  B  S  C

Bulk Specific Gravity (Saturated Surface Dry basis)

Calculate the bulk specific gravity 23/23oC, on the basis of the weight of saturatd surface dry
aggregate as follows:
S
Bulk Sp. Gr. (Saturated Surface Dry basis) = B  S  C

Apparent Specific Gravity

Calculate the apparent specific gravity, 23/23oC as follows:
A
Apparent Sp. Gr.  B  A  C

Absorption
Calculate the percentage of absorption as follows:
S A
Absorption , %  A 100
where in the above equations
A = weight of oven-dry specimen in air, gm
B = weight of pycnometer filled with water, gm
S = weight of the saturated surface-dry specimen, gm and
C = weight of pycnometer with specimen and water to the calibration mark, gm

7. Report:

7.1 Report the specific gravity results to the nearest 0.01 and absorption to the nearest 0.1%.

7.2 If the fine aggregate was tested in a naturally moist condition other than the oven dried and 24
h-soaked condition, report the source of the sample and the procedures used to prevent drying prior
to testing.
 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ENGINEERING DEPARTMNET

RDP NO.: ISP LABORATORY AT: DHAKA__

________________________________________________________________________________________________
SPECIFIC GRAVITY AND ABSORPTION TEST OF
FINE AGGREGATE ( ASTM C 128 )

Client : Field Resident Engineer, Jamalpur Memo no./Ref., Date: As per previous
letter_______

Scheme: J-4 Road, RDP-13 , Jamalpur Location: Jamalpur -

Bhuruakhali______________

Sample No.: S-110 Type of Specimen: Medium-Sand Sampled by & Date: Not
mentioned_

Quantity Collected from Field: About 40 Kg Quantity Represented: Not

mentioned____________

Laboratory Register No.: ISP/SPGC/109/92-93 Date of Test: 06.12.92__

Vol. of Pycnometer/Flask: 1000 mL Making the Specimen SSD: By Cone-Test method for Surface Moisture

Description Test No. .

Test - 1 Test - 2 Test - 3
Wt. of SSD Specimen ( S ), gm 505.4

Wt. of Pycnometer with SSD Specimen & Water (C), 1905.7

gm

Temperature of Water (T); if other then 23+1.7oC, oC 23.3

Specific Gravity of Water at Temperature T o C ( GT ) ----

Wt. of Pycnometer filled with water ( B ), gm 1589.5

Wt. of Oven-Dried Specimen (A), gm 495.9

A GT 2.62
 
Bulk Specific Gravity, 23/23 oC B  S  C G 23
Bulk Specific Gravity (SSD),23/23 oC 2.67
S GT
 
BS C G 23
Apparent Specific Gravity, 23/23 oC 2.76
A GT
 
B  A  C G 23
S A 1.9
100
Water Absorption = A %

Average Specific Gravity, 23/23oC -------- .

Bulk/Bulk (SSD)/Apparent

Average Water Absorption, % -------

NOTE: - Specific Gravity of Water at 23oC (G23) = 0.9976
 - As per ASTM average of three tests is not necessary, though provision is kept in the data-sheet

Tested by: A. K. Azad (Material

Technician)_________________________________________________________
Comments of the Laboratory In-charge: Three types of Specific Gravity results are calculated, since
no__________
information have been given in the forwarding letter regarding the requirement of the
client__________________

Signed by: Masud Ahmed, SALS, ISP, LGED Central Laboratory, Dhaka, 07.12.92____________
 XIV. STANDARD TEST METHOD (ASTM C 70) FOR
SURFACE MOISTURE IN FINE AGGREGATES

1. Scope, Significance and use:

1.1 This test method covers field determination of the amount of surface moisture in fine aggregate
by displacement in water.

1.2 This test method is not widely used. However, it is a convenient procedure for field
determination of moisture content of fine aggregate if specific gravity values are known and if
drying facilities are not available. It can be used to adjust aggregate weights for moisture content
and to determine surface moisture contribution to mixing water in Portland cement concrete.

1.3 The accuracy of the test method depends upon accurate information on the bulk specific gravity
of the material in a saturated surface-dry condition.

2. Apparatus:

2.1 Balance, having a capacity of 2 Kg or more and sensitive to 0.5 gm or less.

2.2 Flask: A suitable container or flask, preferably of glass or non-corrosive metal. The container
may be a pycnometer, a volumetric flask, a graduated volumetric flask, or other suitable measuring
device. The volume of the container shall be from two to three times the loose volume of the
sample.

3. Sample:

Select a representative sample of the fine aggregate to be tested for surface moisture content. It shall
weigh not less than 200 gm. Larger samples will yield more accurate results.

4. Procedure:

4.1 The surface water content may be determined either by weight or volume. In each case the test
shall be made at a temperature range of 18 to 29oC.

4.2 Determination by Weight: Determine the weight of the container, in grams, filled to the mark
with only water. Before placing the sample into the container, adjust the level of water so that it will
be sufficient to cover the sample without going over the original mark. Introduce the weighed
sample of fine aggregate into the container and remove the entrained air. Fill the container to the
original mark and determine the weight in grams. Calculate the amount of water displaced by the
sample as follows:
VS = WC + WS  W
where
VS = weight of water displaced by the sample, gm
WC = weight of container filled to the mark with water, gm
WS = weight of sample, gm and
W = weight of container and sample, filled to the mark with water, gm
Aggregates

4.3 Determination by Volume: Measure a volume of water in millilitres, sufficient to cover the
sample and place in the container. Introduce the weighed sample of fine aggregate into container
and remove the entrained air. Determine the combined volume of the sample and the water by direct
reading when a graduated flask is used. When a pycnometer or volumetric flask of known volume is
used, fill the container to the known volume mark with an additional measured volume of water.
The flask or pycnometer volume is then equal to the combined volume of sample and water.
Calculate the amount of water displaced by the sample, as follows:

VS = V2  V1
where
VS = volume of water displaced by the sample, ml,
V2 = combined volume of sample and water, ml and
V1 = total volume of water in the flask or pycnometer required to cover the sample and bring the
level up to the known volume mark, ml .

5. Calculation:

5.1 Calculate the percentage of surface moisture in terms of the saturated surface- dry fine
aggregate as follows:

VS  Vd
P   100
WS  VS
where
P = surface moisture in terms of saturated surface - dry fine aggregate, %
Vd = weight of the sample (Ws in 4.2) divided by the bulk specific gravity of the fine aggregate in a
saturated surface-dried condition, determined as prescribed in Test Method ASTM C 128
VS = weight of water displaced, gm and
WS = weight of sample, gm

5.2 Calculate the percentage of surface moisture in terms of dry aggregate if the absorption of the
aggregate is known as follows:
 Pa 
PD  P   1 + 
 100 
where
PD = surface moisture in terms of dry fine aggregate, % and
Pa = absorption of the fine aggregate, %, determined in accordance with Test Method
ASTM C 128

5.3 Total moisture content, on a dry aggregate basis, is the sum of the surface moisture (P D ) and the
absorption ( Pa ).
 XV. ABSTRACT FROM LGED ROAD STRUCTURE MANUAL,
ASTM, AASHTO, ETC. ON SPECIFICATION,
TEST FREQUENCIES AND OTHER TOPICS

1. Specification of Fine Aggregate as per R.S. Manual of LGED:

Fine aggregate (consist of natural sand from Durgapur, Sylhet, Domar or any other quarries) shall
conform to the following requirement:

- Should be composed of hard, tough and angular grains

- Organic material content shall not exceed 5%
- Silt and other fine materials content shall not exceed 6%
- It must be well graded from coarse to fine
- The grading shall be within the range as shown below:

Sieve Size 2.36mm 1.18mm 0.600mm 0.300mm

0.150mm (#8) (#16) (#30) (#50)
(#100)
% Passing 90 - 100 75 - 90 45 - 75 30 - 50 0-5

- In some specification, instead of above grading the following Fineness-Modulus (F.M.) is

recommended though grading is more appropriate to describe an aggregate):

Type of Work Minimum Fineness-Modulus

Concrete 1.80
Mortar 1.50
Filling Sand 0.80

- It must not contain harmful impurities such as iron pyrites, coal, mica or other impurities which
will affect the quality of concrete.

2. Specification of Coarse Aggregate as per R.S. Manual of LGED:

Coarse aggregate may consist of first class brick chips or crushed stone chips or gravel, graded as shown below:
Sieve Size 19mm 9.5mm 4.75mm 2.36mm
(3/4 in) (3/8 in.) (#4) (#8)
% Passing 95-100 25 - 55 0 -10 0-5

a. Brick aggregate: The brick aggregate shall conform the following requirement:

- It must be made of first class and picked jhama bricks.

- Nominal size : The grading shall be within the limits (for 19mm down graded) shown above.
- Appearance: shall be completely non plastic and shall be completely free from all organic and
other deleterious materials.
- Water absorption: water absorption as a percentage of the dry weight shall not exceed 20% after
24hr. immersion.
- Percent Wear: shall not exceed 40% tested by Los Angeles Abrasion test.
- Comp. Strength: not less than 17.2 MN/m2 (2500 psi), if the bricks are tested.
Aggregates

b. Stone Aggregate: It shall conform to the following requirement:

- It may be made of crushed stone or gravel.
- Appearance: shall be completely non-plastic and free from any organic and other deleterious
material
- Percent wear: shall not exceed 40% tested by Los Angeles Abrasion test or /and crushing value
not more than 10% in ACV test
- Nominal size: same as brick aggregate
- Grading: same as brick aggregate (shown earlier)
- Comp. Strength: not less than 17.2 MN/m2

3. Specification of Aggregate for Concrete and Road-Layers as per ASTM/AASHTO:

Details specification of aggregate as per ASTM/AASHTO; for Concrete and Road-Layers, are
mentioned in the relevant chapters along with gradation.
NOTE: As per ASTM/AASHTO; for concrete uncrushed aggregate and shingles could be used also (provided their
gradation and abrasion values are acceptable). However for high strength concrete this is not applicable. But
for asphalt concrete; crushed aggregate is a must.

4. Test Frequency of Aggregate as per R.S. Manual of LGED:

In general, inspection of aggregates consists of examining and testing each size and type of
aggregate for acceptance and making periodic quality control tests. It also means ensuring that the
aggregates are properly stored and handled, and that the batching operations are properly carried
out.

Samples of aggregates may be taken from stockpiles or directly from boats or other vessels. The
stockpile may be divided into sections of equal volume. The minimum mass from each section and
the total mass of sample depend on the nominal size of aggregate and the total mass to be
represented. The size of sample also depends upon the type and number of tests to be made.
Samples of sand should not contain less than 10 Kg (22 lb.), and samples of coarse aggregate of
maximum size up to 40 mm (1.5 in.) should not contain less than 75 Kg (165 lb.). The required size
of sample can be obtained from a larger sample either by a sample splitter or by the method of
quartering. Sand samples, when possible, should be taken from damp material so as to avoid
segregation which occurs in dry sand. Samples should come from below the surface, preferably by
means of a sampling tube driven into the sand at several isolated locations. If two or more sands or
coarse aggregates are to be blended to produce a specified grading, each should be sampled and
tested separately. Separate batching is to be preferred over attempts to blend materials in piles.

The frequency of testing for both coarse and fine aggregates are shown in Table 3.7, from the Road
Structure Manual of LGED.
Table 3.7: Quality Control Tests on Coarse and Fine Aggregates
Test Minimum Desirable Frequency of Test
Gradation One test for each 15 m 3 (550 ft3) of coarse
aggregate and fine aggregate.
Deleterious Constituents do
Moisture Content Regularly as required, subject to a minimum of
two tests per day.
Bulking of Fine Aggregate One for each source for observing the moisture
content vs. bulking relationship.
Tests for Absorption of water, Bulk- On for each source of supply.
Density
Aggregates

5. Discussion on Bulking of Sand:

The volume of aggregates, particularly sand, varies with the moisture content of the material. The
increase in volume of sand with moisture content is known as bulking. Since proportioning of
concrete mixes is usually based on volumetric measurements (unless the work is massive and
batching plant is available), it is important that the moisture content considered for mix design be
actually maintained in batching a concrete mix.

Typical bulking curves of sand are shown in Figure 3.12 . The volume of sand increases with
increasing moisture content, reaching a maximum at about 4 to 6 per cent. With further increases of
moisture content, the volume decreases gradually. The finer the sand, the more pronounced is the
bulking phenomenon. The maximum bulking may amount to as much as 40 per cent for a fine sand
and 25 per cent for a somewhat coarse sand.

Figure 3.12: Effect of Moisture on Bulking of Sand

6. Some Typical Specification Regarding the Strength/Abrasion Resistance of Aggregate:

6.1 The strength of aggregate could be checked indirectly by Los Angeles Abrasion test according
to ASTM/ AASHTO specification. According to BS (British Standard) this is tested by any of the
three tests; Aggregate Crushing Value(ACV)/Ten-percent Fines Value (TFV) or Aggregate Impact
Value (AIV) tests.

6.2 If British Standard (BS) is followed in a project; then first ACV test to be done. For softer
aggregate having ACV more than 30%; ACV result is less appropriate and then TFV test to be done.
TFV result of 100 KN could be considered acceptable. If instead of ACV/TFV test; AIV is done
than AIV result of 30% could be considered acceptable. If ASTM/AASHTO specification is
followed then these (ACV/TFV or AIV) BS tests need not to be performed.

6.3 From Road Structure Manual of LGED; the following specification is given regarding the
required strength and abrasion resistance of aggregate:
i. Abrasion Value (Los Angeles Abrasion test as per ASTM/AASHTO): not more than 40%
ii. Crushing Value(Aggregate Crushing Value test as per BS): not more than 30%
iii. Compressive Strength of aggregate made from picked jhama bricks: not less than 17.2
MN/m 2 (2500 psi).
Aggregates

6.4 Often in different projects in Bangladesh L.A.A. value of as low as 30, 35% is specified by the
engineers. Whereas ASTM/AASHTO specify much higher limit. So for some general idea regarding
the quality of aggregates for different types of construction, Table 3.8 is given.

Table 3.8: Maximum Allowable Limit of Los Angeles Abrasion Value

for Aggregate as per ASTM/AASHTO
Description/Specification Type of Construction Maximum %
(LAA)

ASTM D-692 (88) Surface Course 40

Coarse Aggregate for Bituminous Paving Mixtures Base Course 50

ASTM D-1139(83) Surfacing 40

Crushed Stone, Crushed Slag and Gravel for Single
or Multiple Bituminous Surface Treatment

ASTM D-693(84) Surface Course 40

Crushed Aggregate for Macadam Pavement Base Course 50

ASTM C-33(90) All Structures including 50

Specification for Concrete Aggregate Pavement/Bridge Decks &
areas of frequent wetting (only
for coarse aggregate)

ASTM D-1241(68) For Road Construction (only 50

Materials for Soil-Aggregate Sub-base, Base, Surface for coarse aggregate)
Courses

AASHTO M-80(87) All structure including 50

Coarse Aggregate for Portland Cement Concrete Pavement/Bridge Decks

AASHTO M-283(83) For Bituminous Base and 40 ( class-A)

Coarse Aggregate for Highway and Airport Surfacing 45 ( class-B )
Construction 50 ( class-C )

AASHTO M-147(65) For Road Construction (only 50

Materials for Aggregate and Soil-Aggregate Sub- for coarse aggregate)
base, Base and Surface Courses
 XVI. COMBINING OF AGGREGATES

1. General Discussion:

The aggregates must be well graded for having minimum voids after consolidation/ compaction. For
this; different specifications are available on aggregate for Concrete and Road Construction work
which describe the ranges of particles size. Alternatively sometimes Fineness Modulus (F.M.) is
specified also. However a fine aggregate of F.M. 2 or 2.5 even may not be well-graded . But in
Bangladesh in many construction works; the F.M. is specified and sometimes F.M. is used for
combining aggregate. However either by calculation (through trials) or by graphical method,
aggregates should be combined, so that different particle sizes remain within the specified
range/gradation limit and it becomes well-graded. This Article describes various methods of
combining aggregates.

2. General Requirement for Gradation:

Gradation refers to the grain-size composition of a material or the amount of various particle sizes.
It is a relative term used to describe predominantly coarse-grained material only. Gravels and sands
are either well-graded or poorly-graded.

Well-graded materials have various amount of larger and smaller particles such that the voids
between the larger particles can be filled with smaller and smaller particles to make a tight, dense
and stable mass. Poorly-graded materials may have all the particles of nearly same particle size, or
some of the intermediate sizes are missing, such that it does not meet the requirements of a well-
graded material. The term “uniformly-graded” is used to indicate an aggregate in which some of the
intermediate sizes are missing.

As mentioned above, the aggregate should be well graded. For obtaining either a desired gradation
or a desired F.M. economically, blending of different size aggregates is required so that the
composite material conforms to the specification.

3. Combining of Fine Aggregates on the basis of Fineness Modulus:

The F.M. is defined as the sum of the cumulative percentages retained by the standard sieves
9.5mm, 4.75mm(#4), 2.36(#8), 1.18mm(#16), 0.600mm(#30), 0.300mm(#50), 0.150mm(#100)
respectively and divided by 100. Sylhet sands have F.M. between 2.0 to 2.5 or even higher .
However, Sylhet sands are poorly-graded and lack in fine grains and it is costlier also. In order to
obtain the desired F.M. (say for example 1.8); local fine sand could be blended with Sylhet sand in a
suitable proportion so that the combined material have the desired F.M. (say 1.8).

The number of parts (R), of a local fine sand to be mixed with 1 part of coarse Sylhet sand in order
to obtain a sand of desired F.M. (say 1.8); could be determined approximately by the following
formula:

FC  F
R
F  Ff
Aggregates

in which ‘FC’ and ‘Ff’ are the F.M. of coarse and fine sand respectively and ‘F’ is the required or
desired F.M. of the mix (say 1.8 here).

However as mentioned earlier, whenever possible instead of the above mentioned method; one
should use the methods described later to combine the aggregates; so that the combined material is
well-graded and the different particle sizes are within the desired gradation.

4. Combining of Aggregate to have Desired Gradation:

While there is no specified grading, it may be desirable to proportion the available material in such a
way that the grading of the combined aggregate is similar to the specified one. This can be done by
calculation or by graphically.

By Calculation ( through Trial-and-Error )

The basic formula for combining two aggregates is: P  A a  B b -------- (1)

Since a  b 1 , then a 1  b . Substituting this into equation-1 and solving for ‘ b’ we have,

P A
b ---------------- (2)
B A
P B
An expression for ‘a’ can also be found as, a ---------------- (3)
A B

Example: Assume that a single aggregate stockpile is to blended with sand to meet grading
requirements for a paving mixture. These are given in Table 3.9-a, as aggregate ‘A’ and ‘B’. To
make a determination:

1. Examine the two gradations to determine which aggregate will contribute most of the material
for certain sizes. In this case, most of the minus ( passing ) sieve (#8) aggregate will be furnished
by aggregate ‘B’.

2. Using the percentages for the (#8) sieve and substituting into equation-3, the proportions are
determined to meet the mid-point of the specification (Table 3.9-b).

3. Inspection of the blended gradation shows the percent passing (#200) sieve close to the lower
specification limit. Increase the proportion of aggregate ‘B’ ( in this case to 0.55 ) and compute
the gradation of the revised blend (Table 3.9 c ).

4. Inspection now shows the gradation is critical on the #30 sieve. Reduce the proportion of
aggregate ‘B’ to 0.52 or 0.53 and compute the gradation of the revised blend (Table 3.9-d).

Table 3.9: Example of Proportioning Two Aggregates by Calculation (Trial-and-Error)

Aggregates

a. Grading specification & sieve analysis of aggregates: (percent passing are shown)

Sieve (mm, No.) 19.0 12.5 9.5 #4 #8 # 30 # 50 # 100 # 200

Specification 100 80-100 70-90 50-70 35-50 18-29 13-23 8-16 4-10
Aggregate-A 100 90 59 16 3.2 1.1 0 0 0
Aggregate-B 100 100 100 96 82 51 36 21 9.2

P A 42.5  3.2
b. First trial combination: For sieve size (#8), b   0.50 ,
B A 82  3.2
a 1  0.50 0.50
Sieve (mm, No.) 19.0 12.5 9.5 #4 #8 # 30 # 50 # 100 # 200
.0.50  A 50 45.0 29.5 8.0 1.6 0.6 0 0 0
50 50.0 50.0 48.0 41.0 25.5 18.0 10.5 4.6
0.50 B
Total 100 95.0 79.5 56.0 42.6 26.1 18.0 10.5 4.6
Specification 100 80-100 70-90 50-70 35-50 18-29 13-23 8-16 4-10
Minus or passing (#200) sieve size is low, so increase ‘b’ to 0.55, ‘a’ to 0.45

c. Second trial combination:

Sieve (mm, No.) 19.0 12.5 9.5 #4 #8 # 30 # 50 # 100 # 200

.0.45  A 45 40.5 26.6 7.2 1.4 0.5 0 0 0
55 55.0 55.0 52.8 45.1 28.0 19.8 11.5 5.1
0.55 B
Total 100 95.5 81.6 60.0 46.5 28.5 19.8 11.5 5.1
Specification 100 80-100 70-90 50-70 35-50 18-29 13-23 8-16 4-10
Minus or passing No.30 sieve size is high, let b 0.52 , a 0.48
d. Third trial combination:

Sieve (mm, No.) 19.0 12.5 9.5 #4 #8 # 30 # 50 # 100 # 200

.0.48  A 48 43.2 28.3 7.7 1.5 0.5 0 0 0
52 52 52 49.9 42.6 26.5 18.7 10.9 4.8
0.52 B
Total 100 95.2 80.3 57.6 44.1 27.0 18.7 10.9 4.8
Specification 100 80-100 70-90 50-70 35-50 18-29 13-23 8-16 4-10

Graphical Method
Two aggregates may be combined graphically also. This has been shown below with an example
(Figure 3.13), using the previously mentioned two aggregates:

Example:

1. The percent passing the various sizes for aggregate ‘A’ are plotted on the right-hand vertical scale
(representing 100 percent aggregate ‘A’).
Aggregates

2. The percent passing the various sizes for aggregate ‘B’ are plotted on the left -hand vertical scale
(representing 100 percent aggregate ‘B’).

3. Connect the points common to the same size with straight lines, and label.

4. For a particular size, indicate on the straight line where the line crosses the specification limits
measured on the vertical scale ( Note that for the 9.5mm size, two points are plotted on the line at
70 and 90 percent on the vertical scale).

5. That portion of the line between the two points represents the proportions of aggregates ‘A’ &
‘B’ measured on the horizontal scale, that will not exceed specification limits for that particular
size.

6. The portion of horizontal scale designated by two vertical lines, when projected vertically, is
within specification limits for all sizes and represents the limits of proportions possible for
satisfactory blends. In this case, 43 to 54 percent of aggregate ‘A’ and 46 to 57 percent of
aggregate ‘B’ will meet specifications when blended. It can be seen that the percent of blended
material passing the #30 and (#200) sieves will be the critical or controlling values for keeping
the blend within specification limits.

7. For blending, usually the mid-point of that horizontal scale is selected for the blend. In this case,
48 percent aggregate ‘A’ and 52 percent aggregate ‘B’.

Figure 3.13: Example of Proportioning of Two Aggregates by Graphical Method