1

CONSISTENCY OF STANDARD CEMENT PASTE (IS:4031-PART4-1988)

OVERVIEW
Standard consistency of a cement paste is defined as that consistency which will
permit a vicat plunger having 10 mm dia and 50 mm length to penetrate to a depth
of 33-35 mm from top of the mould.
APPARATUS
MEASURING INSTRUMENTS
NAME

CAPACITY / RANGE /
SIZE

Vicat apparatus

Should be made as per

IS:5513

Balance

1000 g

1g

Measuring cylinder

100 ml

1 ml

OTHER ACCESSORIES
Tray, glass plate

ACCURACY / LEAST
COUNT

Vicat Apparatus
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITION
Temperature

27 20 C

Humidity

65 5 %

PROCEDURE
1. Take 400 g of cement and place it in the enameled tray.
2. Mix about 25% water by weight of dry cement thoroughly to get a cement
paste. Total time taken to obtain thoroughly mixed water cement paste i.e.
Gauging time should not be more than 3 to 5 minutes.
3. Fill the vicat mould, resting upon a glass plate, with this cement paste.
4. After filling the mould completely, smoothen the surface of the paste, making
it level with top of the mould.
5. Place the whole assembly(i.e. mould + cement paste + glass plate) under the
rod bearing plunger.
6. Lower the plunger gently so as to touch the surface of the test block and
quickly release the plunger allowing it to sink into the paste.
7. Measure the depth of penetration and record it.

8. Prepare trial pastes with varying percentages of water content and follow the
steps (2 to 7) as described above, until the depth of penetration becomes 33
to 35 mm.
CALCULATION
Calculate percentage of water (P) by weight of dry cement required to prepare
cement paste of standard consistency by following formula, and express it to the
first place of decimal.

Where,
W=Quantity of water added
C=Quantity of cement used
PRECAUTIONS

Gauging time should be strictly observed

Room temperature should be well maintained as per test requirement.

All apparatus used should be clean.

The experiment should be performed away from vibrations and other

disturbances.

TECHNICAL DISCUSSION

This test helps to determine water content for other tests like initial and final
setting time, soundness & compressive strength.

NAME OF TEST

AMOUNT OF WATER REQUIRED

Soundness (Le-chatelier
method)

0.78 P (P=Consistency of standard cement

paste)

Setting time

0.85 P (P=Consistency of standard cement

paste)

Compressive strength
of combined mass of cement and sand.

Consistency refers to the relative mobility of a freshly mixed cement paste or

mortar or its ability to flow. For a mortar the standard consistency is
measured by flow table test.

Generally the normal consistency for OPC ranges from 26 to 33%.

FINENESS OF CEMENT BY DRY SIEVING (IS:4031-PART 1-1996)

Suryakanta | May 2, 2013 | Cement, Materials, Tests On Cement | 2 Comments

OVERVIEW
Fineness of cement is measured by sieving it on standard sieve. The proportion of
cement of which the grain sizes are larger than the specified mesh size is thus
determined.
APPARATUS
MEASURING INSTRUMENTS
NAME

CAPACITY / RANGE /
SIZE

ACCURACY / LEAST
COUNT

Sieve

90 micron mesh

Balance

10g (max.)

10 mg

SUPPLEMENTARY ACCESSORIES
Glass rod, stoppered jar, pan, lid

90 micron
sieve

PROCEDURE
1. Agitate the sample of cement to be tested by shaking for 2 minutes in a
stoppered jar to disperse agglomerates. Stir the resulting powder gently
using a clean dry rod in order to distribute the fines throughout the cement.
2. Attach a pan under the sieve to collect the cement passing the sieve.
3. Weigh approximately 10 g of cement to the nearest 0.01 g and place it on the
sieve. Fit the lid over the sieve.
4. Agitate the sieve by swirling, planetary and linear movement until no more
fine material passes through it.
5. Remove and weigh the residue. Express its mass as a percentage (R 1) of the
quantity first placed in the sieve.
6. Repeat the steps 3 to 5 with a fresh sample to obtain R 2.

Note :: If R1 & R2 differ by more than 1%, then carryout a third sieving and
calculate R3.

CALCULATION
Calculate the residue of cement R as the mean of R 1 & R2 (or R1, R2 & R3) in %,
expressed to the nearest 0.1%.
PROCEDURE TO CHECK SIEVE
1. Follow the steps (1 to 6) as mentioned earlier with a reference cement
sample or certified reference material (i.e. CRM).
2. Calculate two values P1 & P2 and calculate mean P of P1 & P2.
3. From the certificate of reference cement sample find out the known value of
residue on 90 micron mesh sieve.
4. Calculate a correction factor as per the below mentioned formula.

Where
R0=Known value of residue as per reference material certificate.
P=Mean value of P1 & P2.
(The value of F may be 1.000.20)
5. Multiply this correction factor F with mean value of R
PRECAUTION

Before sieving, air set lumps of cement should be broken

Sieving should be done by rotating the sieve and not by translation.

TECHNICAL DISCUSSIONS

Fineness of cement has a great effect on the rate of hydration and hence the
rate of gain of strength.

Fineness of cement increases the rate of evolution of heat.

Finer cement offers a great surface area for hydration and hence faster the
development of strength.

Increase in fineness of cement also increases the drying shrinkage of

concrete and hence creates cracks in structures.

Excessive fineness requirement increases cost of grinding.

Excessive fine cement requires more water for hydration, resulting reduced
strength and durability.

Fineness of cement affects properties like gypsum requirement, workability of

fresh concrete & long term behavior of structure.

Coarse cement particles settle down in concrete which causes bleeding.

INITIAL & FINAL SETTING TIME (IS:4031-PART 5-1988)

Suryakanta | May 4, 2013 | Cement, Materials, Tests On Cement | 9 Comments

OVERVIEW
Initial setting time is that time period between the time water is added to cement
and time at which 1 mm square section needle fails to penetrate the cement paste,
placed in the Vicats mould 5 mm to 7 mm from the bottom of the mould.
Final setting time is that time period between the time water is added to cement
and the time at which 1 mm needle makes an impression on the paste in the mould
but 5 mm attachment does not make any impression.
APPARATUS
MEASURING INSTRUMENTS
NAME

CAPACITY / RANGE /
SIZE

Vicat apparatus

Should be made as per

IS:5513

Balance

1000 g

1g

Measuring cylinder

100 ml

1 ml

Stop watch

30 min.

0.2 sec

OTHER APPARATUS
Glass plate, enamel tray, trowel

ACCURACY / LEAST
COUNT

Vicat Apparatus
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITION
Temperature

27 20 C

Relative Humidity

90 % (min)

PROCEDURE
(A)TEST BLOCK PREPARATION
1. Before commencing setting time test, do the consistency test to obtain the
water required to give the paste normal consistency (P).
2. Take 400 g of cement and prepare a neat cement paste with 0.85P of water
by weight of cement.

3. Gauge time is kept between 3 to 5 minutes. Start the stop watch at the
instant when the water is added to the cement. Record this time (t 1).
4. Fill the Vicat mould, resting on a glass plate, with the cement paste gauged
as above. Fill the mould completely and smooth off the surface of the paste
making it level with the top of the mould. The cement block thus prepared is
called test block.
(B)INITIAL SETTING TIME
1. Place the test block confined in the mould and resting on the non-porous
plate, under the rod bearing the needle.
2. Lower the needle gently until it comes in contact with the surface of test
block and quick release, allowing it to penetrate into the test block.
3. In the beginning the needle completely pierces the test block. Repeat this
procedure i.e. quickly releasing the needle after every 2 minutes till the
needle fails to pierce the block for about 5 mm measured from the bottom of
the mould. Note this time (t2).
(C)FINAL SETTING TIME
1. For determining the final setting time, replace the needle of the Vicats
apparatus by the needle with an annular attachment.
2. The cement is considered finally set when upon applying the final setting
needle gently to the surface of the test block; the needle makes an
impression thereon, while the attachment fails to do so. Record this time (t 3).
CALCULATION
Initial setting time=t2-t1
Final setting time=t3-t1,
Where,
t1=Time at which water is first added to cement
t2=Time when needle fails to penetrate 5 mm to 7 mm from bottom of the mould
t3=Time when the needle makes an impression but the attachment fails to do so.
PRECAUTIONS

Release the initial and final setting time needles gently.

The experiment should be performed away from vibration and other

disturbances.

Needle should be cleaned every time it is used.

Position of the mould should be shifted slightly after each penetration to

avoid penetration at the same place.

Test should be performed at the specified environmental conditions.

STANDARD SPECIFICATION
Type/Name Of
Cement

Referenced
Indian Stanadard

Initial
Setting
Time, mints
(min.)

Final
Setting
Time, mints
(max.)

OPC(33)

IS:269

30

600

OPC(43)

IS:8112

30

600

OPC(53)

IS:12269

30

600

SRC

IS:12330

30

600

PPC

IS:1489,P1

30

600

RHPC

IS:8041

30

600

PSC

IS:455

30

600

High alumina

IS:6452

30

600

Super sulphated

IS:6909

30

600

Low heat

IS:12600

60

600

Masonry cement

IS:3466

90

1440

IRS-T-40

Railway

60

600

TECHNICAL DISCUSSION

It is essential that cement set neither too rapidly nor too slowly. In the first
case there might be insufficient time to transport and place the concrete
before it becomes too rigid. In the second case too long a setting period
tends to slow up the work unduly, also it might postpone the actual use of the
structure because of inadequate strength at the desired age.

Setting should not be confused with hardening, which refers to the gain in
mechanical strength after the certain degree of resistance to the penetration
of a special attachment pressed into it.

Setting time is the time required for stiffening of cement paste to a defined
consistency.

Indirectly related to the initial chemical reaction of cement with water to form
aluminum-silicate compound.

Initial setting time is the time when the paste starts losing its plasticity.

Initial setting time test is important for transportation, placing and

compaction of cement concrete.

Initial setting time duration is required to delay the process of hydration or

hardening.

Final setting time is the time when the paste completely loses its plasticity.

It is the time taken for the cement paste or cement concrete to harden
sufficiently and attain the shape of the mould in which it is cast.

Determination of final setting time period facilitates safe removal of

scaffolding or form.

During this period of time primary chemical reaction of cement with water is
almost completed.

4 SPECIFIC GRAVITY/DENSITY OF HYDRAULIC CEMENT (IS:4031-PART 111988)

Suryakanta | May 4, 2013 | Tests On Cement | 1 Comment
OVERVIEW
Specific gravity is defined as the ratio between the weight of a given
volume of cement and weight of an equal volume of water.
APPARATUS
MEASURING INSTRUMENTS
NAME

Lechatelier flask
Balance
Water bath
OTHER APPARATUS
Tray

CAPACITY / RANGE /
SIZE

ACCURACY / LEAST
COUNT

Le chatelier flask
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Temp
Relative humidity
TEST PROCEDURE
1. Dry the Le-chatelier flask and fill with kerosene oil or Naptha to a
point on the stem between 0 and 1 ml.
2. Dry the inside of the flask above the level of the liquid.
3. Immerse the flask in a constant temp water bath maintained at room
temp for sufficient time.
4. Record the level of the kerosene oil in the flask as initial reading.
5. Introduce about 60 g of cement into the flask so that the level of
kerosene rises to about say 22 ml mark. Splashing should be avoided
and cement should not be allowed to adhere to the sides of the flask
above the liquid.

6. Insert the glass nipple into the flask and roll it gently in an inclined
position to free the cement from air until no further air bubble rises
to the surface of the liquid.
7. Keep the flask again in constant temp water bath and note down the
new liquid level as final reading.
CALCULATION
The difference between the first and final readings represents the volume
of liquid displaced by the mass of cement used in test.
The density is calculated as per the below mentioned formula to the
second place of decimal.

Note ::Two tests shall be carried out and the average is reported. If
the difference between the two values differs by more than 0.03, the
test shall be repeated.

PRECAUTIONS

While pouring cement in the Lechatelier flask, care should be taken

to avoid splashing and cement should not adhere to the inside of the
flask above the liquid.

The kerosene or Naptha should be completely free from water.

TECHNICAL DISCUSSIONS

The test for finding the specific gravity of Portland cement was
originally considered to be of value in detecting adulteration and
under burning, but is no longer thought to be of much importance in
view of the fact that other tests lead to more definite conclusions.

BULKING OF FINE AGGREGATE WHAT, WHY & HOW?

Suryakanta | February 11, 2014 | Aggregate, Concrete, Concrete Technology, How
To, Materials, Tests On Aggregate | 5 Comments
The volume increase of fine aggregate due to presence of moisture content is
known as bulking. Fine sand bulks more as compared to coarse sand. Extremely fine
sand particularly the manufactured fine aggregate bulks as much as about 40%.
Note: Fine aggregate do not show any bulking when it is absolutely dry or
completely saturated.
WHAT CAUSES BULKING OF AGGREGATE?

The moisture present in aggregate forms a film around each particle. These films of
moisture exert a force, known as surface tension, on each particle. Due to this
surface tension each particles gets away from each other. Because of this no direct
contact is possible among individual particles and this causes bulking of the volume.
Bulking of aggregate is dependent upon two factors,
1. Percentage of moisture content
2. Particle size of fine aggregate
Bulking increases with increase in moisture content upto a certain limit and beyond
that the further increase in moisture content results in decrease in volume. When
the fine aggregate is completely saturated it does not show any bulking. Fine sand
bulks more as compared to coarse sand, i.e. percentage of bulking in indirectly
proportional to the size of particle.

percen
tage of bulking of sand with moisture content
WHY TO DETERMINE PERCENTAGE OF BULKING?
Due to bulking, fine aggregate shows completely unrealistic volume. Therefore, it is
absolutely necessary that consideration must be given to the effect of bulking in
proportioning the concrete by volume. If care is not given to the effect of bulking, in

the case of volume batching, the resulting concrete is likely to be undersanded and
harsh. It will also affect the yield of concrete for a given cement content.
HOW TO DETERMINE PERCENTAGE OF BULKING?
The extent of bulking can be estimated by a simple field test.

Fill a sample of moist fine aggregate (sand) into a measuring cylinder in the
normal manner. Note down the level, say h1.

Pour water into a measuring cylinder and completely cover the sand with
water and shake it. Since the volume of the saturated sand is the same as
that of the dry sand, the saturated sand completely offsets the bulking effect.
Note down the level of sand, say h2.

Subtract the final level h2 from initial level h1 (i.e. h1-h2), which shows the
bulking of sand under test.

Calculate percentage of bulking using formula given below.

Percentage of bulking = [(h1-h2)/h2]*100

SOUNDNESS OF CEMENT BY LE-CHATELIERS METHOD (IS:4031-PART 31988)

Suryakanta | May 4, 2013 | How To, Materials, Tests On Cement | 4 Comments
OVERVIEW
In the soundness test a specimen of hardened cement paste is boiled for a fixed
time so that any tendency to expand is speeded up and can be detected.
Soundness means the ability to resist volume expansion.
APPARATUS
MEASURING INSTRUMENTS
NAME

CAPACITY / RANGE /
SIZE

Le-chatelier apparatus

Should be made as per

IS:5514

Water bath

1000C (min)

10C

Caliper

30 cm

0.5 mm

Measuring cylinder

100 ml

1 ml

Balance

100 g

1g

OTHER APPARATUS
Glass sheets (2 nos), Enamel tray, trowel

ACCURACY / LEAST
COUNT

Le chatelier Apparatus
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Temperature

27 20 C

Humidity

65 5 %

PROCEDURE
1. Before commencing setting time test, do the consistency test to obtain the
water required to give the paste normal consistency (P).
2. Prepare a paste by adding 0.78 times the water required to give a paste of
standard consistency (i.e. 0.78P).
3. Lightly oil the Le-chatelier mould and place it on a lightly oiled glass sheet.
4. Fill the mould with the prepared cement paste. In the process of filling the
mould keep the edge of the mould gently together.
5. Cover the mould with another piece of lightly oiled glass sheet, place a small
weight on this covering glass sheet.
6. Submerge the whole assembly in water at a temperature of 27 2 0 C and
keep there for 24 hours.
7. Remove the whole assembly from water bath and measure the distance
separating the indicator points to the nearest 0.5 mm (L 1).
8. Again submerge the whole assembly in water bath and bring the temperature
of water bath to boiling temperature in 25 to 30 minutes. Keep it at boiling
temperature for a period of 3 hours.
9. After completion of 3 hours, allow the temperature of the water bath to cool
down to room temperature and remove the whole assembly from the water
bath.

10.Measure the distance between the two indicator points to the nearest 0.5 mm
(L2).
CALCULATIONS
Soundness/expansion of cement = L1-L2
L1=Measurement taken after 24 hours of immersion in water at a temp. of 27 2 0 C
L2=Measurement taken after 3 hours of immersion in water at boiling temperature.
Calculate the mean of two values to the nearest 0.5 mm.

Note::In the event of cement failing to comply with the specified

requirements, a further test should be made from another portion of the
same sample in manner described above, but after aeration (done by
spreading out to a depth of 75 mm at a relative humidity of 50 to 80% for a
total period of 7 days).

PRECAUTIONS

All the measurements should be done accurately.

Do not apply extra pressure while filling the moulds.

During boiling water level should not fall below the height of the mould.

STANDARD SPECIFICATIONS
Type/Name of cement

Reference Indian
standard

Expansion (max.)

OPC (33)

IS:269-1989

10 mm

OPC (43)

IS:8112-1989

10 mm

OPC (53)

IS:12269-1987

10 mm

Rapid hardening

IS:8041-1990

10 mm

Low heat cement

IS:12600-1989

10 mm

Super sulphated

IS:6909-1990

5 mm

Portland pozzolana

IS:1489-1991(part 1)

10 mm

PSC

IS:455-1976

10 mm

High alumina cement

IS:6452-1989

5 mm

SRC

IS:12330-1988

10 mm

Masonry cement

IS:3466-1988

10 mm

IRS-T-40

Railway standards

5 mm

TECHNICAL DISCUSSION

Volume expansion in cement mortar or in cement concrete is caused by the

presence of unburnt lime (CaO), dead burnt MgO and also CaSO 4.

By Le-chatelier method we can only find out presence of unburnt lime (CaO).

Presence of unburnt lime may develop cracks in the cement because of

increase in volume.

Free lime (CaO) and magnesia (MgO) are known to react with water very
slowly and increase in volume considerably, which result in cracking,
distortion and disintegration.

COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF HYDRAULIC CEMENT MORTAR (ASTM-C-109)

Suryakanta | October 12, 2015 | Cement, Concrete Technology, Materials, Tests On
Cement | No Comments
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH TEST OF HYDRAULIC CEMENT MORTAR
PURPOSE
The following covers only that portion of ASTM Designation: C 109 that is required
to determine the compressive strength of 50 mm (2 inches) of Portland cement
mortar cubes.
EQUIPMENT AND MATERIALS

A 2kg scale accurate to 0.1 gram

Six 50 mm (2 inch) cube molds

Hard rubber tampers 13 25 mm (1/2 1 inch) cross section and 12 to 15

cm (5 to 6 inches) in height

Rubber gloves

Small steel trowels

Large spoons

Electrically driven mechanical mixer equipped with a paddle and mixing bowl

500 grams of Portland cement

1375 grams of Ottawa Sand (or Standard sand)

42 cc of water

TEST PROCEDURE
1. Place the 242 cc of water in the mixing bowl, add the 500 grams of cement,
and mix at a slow speed (1405 rpm) for 30
2. Add the 1375 grams of Ottawa Sand over a 30-second period while
continuing to mix at a slow speed.
3. Stop the mixing, change the mixer setting to medium speed (2855 rpm),
and mix for 30 seconds.
4. Stop the mixer and let the mortar stand for 90 seconds. During the first 15
seconds, scrape down into the batch any mortar that may have collected on
the sides of the bowl. Cover the bowl for the remainder of the interval.
5. Finish preparing the mortar by mixing for 60 seconds at medium speed.
6. Immediately upon completion of mixing, start molding the specimens by
placing a 25 mm (i.e. 1 inch) layer of mortar in all of the six cube
compartments. Tamp the mortar layer in each cube compartment, with the
hard rubber tamper, 32 times within about 10 seconds in accordance with
Figure 1 in four rounds. Each round should be at right angles to the other and
consist of eight adjacent strokes over the surface of the specimen. Use
sufficient tamping pressure to ensure uniform filling of the molds. Complete
the lift in each mold in turn before moving on to the next one.

Fig-1

7. Complete the filling of the molds by adding another layer and duplicate the
tamping procedure. At this point the mortar should be slightly above the top
of the molds. Carefully cut the excess mortar flush with the edge of a steel
trowel.
8. Place the completed mortar cubes in a moist closet, protected from dripping
water, for between 20 and 24 hours, after which the cubes are to be stripped
from the molds.
9. Insert the mortar cubes in a saturated lime water bath until ready for testing.
Periodically the lime water should be changed to keep the water clean.
10.All specimens should be tested within a specified time period.
Prior to testing, the specimens should be wiped clean. Apply the loads only to the
true surfaces of the cubes. Use a straight edge to check the cube surfaces. Any
loose grains of sand or other extraneous material should be removed from the
surfaces in contact with the testing machine. The specimen should be placed under
the center of the upper bearing block of the testing machine. A light coating of oil
should be applied to the upper platen. The rate of load application should produce
failure of the specimens during a time interval of 20 to 80 seconds.
COMPUTATIONS
Record the maximum compressive load and compute the compressive strength in
pascals or pounds/square inch using following formula
Compressive strength = Load / Cross-sectional area
The following data sheet should be used to record findings.
Specim
en No.

1
2
3
4
5
6

Time of
Loading in
Seconds

Total load
in Kg or
Pound

Cross-sectional
Area of
Specimen in
meter2 or inch2

Specimen
strength in
Pascals or
psi

AIM
To determine the specific gravity of given sample of fine and coarse aggregates.

SPECIFIC GRAVITTY OF COARSE AGGREGATE.

Apparatus
1. A balance or scale of capacity not less than 3 kg, readable and accurate to
0.5 g and of such a type and shape as to permit the basket containing the
sample to be suspended from the beam and the weighed in water.
2. A well ventilated oven thermostatically controlled to maintain a temperature
of 100oC to 110oC.
3. A wire basket of not more than 6.3 mm mesh or a perforated container of
convenient size.
4. A stout water tight container of convenient size.
5. Two dry soft absorbent cloths each not less than 7545 cm
6. A shallow tray of area no less than 650 cm2
7. An air tight container of capacity similar to that of the basket.

Procedure
(I) Take 2 kg of aggregate. Sample larger than 10mm
(ii)Wash the sample thoroughly to remove finer particle and dust.
(iii) Place the sample in a wire basket and immerse it in distilled water at a
temperature between 22oC and 32oC with a cover of at least 5 cm of water above
the top of the basket.
(iv) Remove the entrapped air by lifting the basket containing the sample 25 mm
above the base of the tank and allowing it to drop per second, care being taken to
see that the sample is completely immersed in water during the operation.
(v) With the sample in water at a temper of 220C-32oC (W).
(vi) Remove the basket and aggregate from water and allow To drain for a few
minutes.
(vii) Empty the aggregate from the basket to a shallow tray.
(viii) Immerse the empty basket in water jolt 25 times and than the weight in water
(w2).
(ix) Place the aggregates in oven at a temperature of 100oC to 110oC for 24+- 0.5
hours.
(x) Remove it from the oven and cool it and find the weight. (w2)
Calculations
Apparent Specific Gravity = (Weight of a substance/ wt of an equal vol of water)
= W3/(W3- (w1-w2))
Result
S specific gravity of given coarse aggregate= ..
SPECIFIC GRAVITY OF FINE AGGREGATE
Apparatues
1.A balance of capacity not less than 3kg ,readable and accurate to 0.5 gm and of
such a type as to permit the weighing of the vessel containing the aggregate and
water .
2.A well ventilated oven to maintain a temperature of 100C to 110C
3.Pyconometer of about 1 littre capacity having a metal conical screw top with a
6mm hole at its apex . The screw top shall be water tight .
4.a means supplying a current warm air .

5.A tray of area not less than 32cm.

6.An air tight container large enough to take the sample.
7.Filter papers and funnel.

Procedure
(I) Take about 500g of sample and place it in the pycnometer.
(II) Pour distilled water into it until it is full.
(III) Eliminate the entrapped air by rotating the pycnometer on its side ,the hole in
the apex of the cone being covered with a finger.
(IV) Wipe out the outer surface of pycnometer and weigh it (W)
(V) Transfer the contents of the pycnometer into a tray , care being taken to ensure
that all the aggregate is transferred .
(VI) Refill the pycnometer with distilled water to the same level .
(VII) Find out the weight (W1)
(VIII) drink water from the sample through a filter paper .
(IX) Place the sample in oven in a tray at a temperature of 100C to 110 C for
240.5 hours ,during which period ,it is stirred occasionally to facilitate drying .
(X) Cool the sample and weigh it (W2)
Calculation
Apparent specific gravity = (weight of dry sample/weight of equal volume of water )
= W2/(W2- (W-W2))
Result
Specific gravity of fine aggregate =.

SIEVE ANALYSIS
Sieve analysis helps to determine the particle size distribution of the coarse and fine
aggregates.This is done by sieving the aggregates as per IS: 2386 (Part I) 1963. In
this we use different sieves as standardized by the IS code and then pass
aggregates through them and thus collect different sized particles left over different
sieves.
The apparatus used are
i) A set of IS Sieves of sizes 80mm, 63mm, 50mm, 40mm,31.5mm, 25mm, 20mm,
16mm, 12.5mm, 10mm, 6.3mm,4.75mm, 3.35mm, 2.36mm, 1.18mm, 600m,
300m, 150m and 75m.
ii) Balance or scale with an accuracy to measure 0.1 percent of the weight of the
test sample.
The weight of sample available should not be less than the weight given below:-

The sample for sieving should be prepared from the larger sample either by
quartering or by means of a sample divider.
Procedure to determine particle size distribution of Aggregates.
i) The test sample is dried to a constant weight at a temperature of 110 + 5 oC and
weighed.
ii) The sample is sieved by using a set of IS Sieves.
iii) On completion of sieving, the material on each sieve is weighed.
iv) Cumulative weight passing through each sieve is calculated as a percentage of
the total sample weight.
v) Fineness modulus is obtained by adding cumulative percentage of aggregates
retained on each sieve and dividing the sum by 100.
Reporting of Results
The results should be calculated and reported as:
i) the cumulative percentage by weight of the total sample
ii) the percentage by weight of the total sample passing through one sieve and
retained on the next smaller sieve, to the nearest 0.1 percent. The results of the
sieve analysis may be recorded graphically on a semi-log graph with particle size as
abscissa (log scale) and the percentage smaller than the specified diameter as
ordinate.

AIM
To study the behaviour of sand grains under varying percentage of moisture content
.
APPARATUES.
250 ml measuring cylinder ,weighing balance etc .
PROCEDURE
(i) Take 500gm (W1) of the aggregate.

(ii) Keep the sample in an oven in a tray at a temperature of 100C-110 C for 24

0.5 hours .
(iii) Cool the sand in an air tight container and weight it (W2)
Water content of the sample = (W1-W2)x 100/W1
(iv) Take out about 250gm of sand and pour it into a pan.
(v) Add 2% (by weight) of water and mix well.
(vi) Pour the sand sample into a 250 ml measuring cylinder and consolidate by
shaking.
(vii) Level the surface and read the volume in ml (Yi).
(viii) Take out the whole quantity of sand and continue the experiment by adding 2%
water more each time and note the corresponding volume of sand (Y2,Y3..) until
the dump sand volume starts decreasing.
(ix) Beyond this point, add 4% more water each time until the sample become fully
saturated.
(x) To the standard sample in the measuring cylinder, add about 50 ml water ore
and stir the sample well.
(xi) Note down the surface level of inundated sand (Y ml).

CALCULATIONS
Bulking =(Y1-Y)x100/Y
GRAPH
A graph drawn with % water content along X-mas and % bulking along Y- axis.
From the graph, pick out maximum % of bulking occurred, % of water content at
maximum bulking , % of water content When bulking is zero & % of bulking for the
initial water content (W) of the sample.
RESULTS
% of bulking occurred =
% of water content at maximum bulking=
% of water content when bulking is zero=
% of bulking for the initial water content (W) of the sample =

FIELD TEST FOR BULKING OF FINE AGGREGATES

AIM
To determine necessary adjustment for the bulking of fine aggregate, in the field.
APPARATUES
250 ml measuring cylinder
PROCEDURE
(I) Pour the dump sand in to a 250 ml measuring cylinder up to the 200 ml mark.
(II) Fill the cylinder with water and stir well (sufficient water should be poured to
submerge the sand compleately and it can be see that the sand surface is now
below its original level)
(III) Take the reading at the sand surface (Y ml)
CALCULATIONS
% of bulking { (200/Y)- 1] x100
Report the percentage bulking of the sand to the nearest whole number.
RESULT

Percentage bulking of field sample=

OBJECTIVE
Determination of unit weight or bulk density and void of aggregates.
EQUIPMENTS
Name

Capacity

1. Balance

Sensitive to 0.5% of weight of

material
Of 3 litre capacity (for fine aggregate)

2. Cylindrical metal measure

Of 15 litre capacity (for aggregate

upto 40mm)

3. Tamping rod

16 mm dia. and 60 cm long

cylindrical metal measure

used for bulk density and void test of aggregate
SAMPLE PREPARATION

Take the required amount of test sample form the bulk sample using
any sample reductionmethod.

The test is normally carried out on dry material, but when bulking tests are
required, material with a given percentage of moisture may be used.

A. PROCEDURE FOR COMPACTED BULK DENSITY

1. Measure the volume of the cylindrical metal measure by pouring water into
the metal measure and record the volume V in litre.
2. Fill the cylindrical metal measure about one-third full with thoroughly mixed
aggregate and tamp it 25 times using tamping bar.
3. Add another layer of one-third volume of aggregate in the metal measure and
give another 25 strokes of tamping bar.
4. Finally fill aggregate in the metal measure to over-flowing and tamp it 25
times.
5. Remove the surplus aggregate using the tamping rod as a straightedge.
6. Determine the weight of the aggregate in the measure and record that weight
W in kg.

CALCULATION FOR COMPACTED BULK DENSITY

Compacted unit weight or bulk density = W/V
Where,
W = Weight of compacted aggregate in cylindrical metal measure, kg
V = Volume of cylindrical metal measure, litre
CALCULATION OF VOIDS
The percentage of voids is calculated as follows
Percentage of voids = [(G )/G]*100
Where
G = Specific gravity of the aggregate
= Bulk density in kg/litre
B. PROCEDURE FOR LOOSE BULK DENSITY
1. Measure the volume of the cylindrical metal measure by pouring water into
the metal measure and record the volume V in litre.
2. Fill the cylindrical measure to overflowing by means of a shovel or scoop, the
aggregate being discharged from a height not exceeding 5 cm above the top
of the measure
3. Level the top surface of the aggregate in the metal measure, with a
straightedge or tamping bar.
4. Determine the weight of the aggregate in the measure and record the weight
W in kg.
CALCULATION FOR LOOSE BULK DENSITY
Loose unit weight or bulk density = W/V
Where,
W = Weight of loose aggregate in cylindrical metal measure, kg
V = Volume of cylindrical metal measure, litre
CALCULATION OF VOIDS
The percentage of voids is calculated as follows
Percentage of voids = [(G )/G]*100
Where
G = Specific gravity of the aggregate

 = Bulk density in kg/litre

RESULT
The bulk density is reported in kg/litre to the nearest 0.01 kg
The percentage of voids is reported to the nearest whole number.
Mention whether the aggregate is
(a) oven dry,
(b) saturated and surface dry or
(c) with a given percentage of moisture.

OBJECTIVE
To determine quantity of silt in fine aggregates in the field
THEORY
There are two types of harmful substances preset in fine aggregates i.e. organic
matter produced by decay of vegetable matter and/or clay and silt, which form
coating thus preventing a good bond between cement and the aggregates. If
present in large quantities, result in the increase water-cement ratio and finally
affecting the strength of concrete.
Field test is generally conducted in order to determine the volumetric percentage of
silt in natural sand for percentage up to 6%, otherwise more detailed test as
prescribed by standard code are required to be conducted.

APPARATUS

Measuring cylinder of 250 ml capacity.

PROCEDURE
1. Fill 1% solution of common salt and water in the measuring cylinder up to 50
ml mark.
2. Now add sand to be tested to this solution till the level of the salt solution
shows 100 ml mark.
3. Top up the level of salt solution up to 150 ml mark.
4. Shake the mixture of sand and salt solution well and keep it undisturbed for
about 3 hours.
5. The silt being of finer particles than sand, will settle above the sand in a form
of layer.
6. Measure the thickness of this silt layer.

Silt content in Fine Aggregates

RECORDING OF OBSERVATION AND CALCULATION

Sample Numbers
Sl.No
.

Description

Volume of sample, V1 (ml)

Sample1

Sample2

Sample2

Volume of silt after 3

hours, V2(ml)
% silt by
volume =(V2/V1)*100

NOTE
If the average value of silt content exceeds 6% by volume, the aggregate requires
washing before use.
PRECAUTIONS

Utmost care should be taken while taking sample for test

OBJECTIVE
Determination of unit weight or bulk density and void of aggregates.
EQUIPMENTS
Name

Capacity

1. Balance

Sensitive to 0.5% of weight of

material
Of 3 litre capacity (for fine aggregate)

2. Cylindrical metal measure

Of 15 litre capacity (for aggregate

upto 40mm)

3. Tamping rod

16 mm dia. and 60 cm long

cylindrical metal measure

used for bulk density and void test of aggregate
SAMPLE PREPARATION

Take the required amount of test sample form the bulk sample using
any sample reductionmethod.

The test is normally carried out on dry material, but when bulking tests are
required, material with a given percentage of moisture may be used.

A. PROCEDURE FOR COMPACTED BULK DENSITY

1. Measure the volume of the cylindrical metal measure by pouring water into
the metal measure and record the volume V in litre.
2. Fill the cylindrical metal measure about one-third full with thoroughly mixed
aggregate and tamp it 25 times using tamping bar.

3. Add another layer of one-third volume of aggregate in the metal measure and
give another 25 strokes of tamping bar.
4. Finally fill aggregate in the metal measure to over-flowing and tamp it 25
times.
5. Remove the surplus aggregate using the tamping rod as a straightedge.
6. Determine the weight of the aggregate in the measure and record that weight
W in kg.
CALCULATION FOR COMPACTED BULK DENSITY
Compacted unit weight or bulk density = W/V
Where,
W = Weight of compacted aggregate in cylindrical metal measure, kg
V = Volume of cylindrical metal measure, litre
CALCULATION OF VOIDS
The percentage of voids is calculated as follows
Percentage of voids = [(G )/G]*100
Where
G = Specific gravity of the aggregate
= Bulk density in kg/litre
B. PROCEDURE FOR LOOSE BULK DENSITY
1. Measure the volume of the cylindrical metal measure by pouring water into
the metal measure and record the volume V in litre.
2. Fill the cylindrical measure to overflowing by means of a shovel or scoop, the
aggregate being discharged from a height not exceeding 5 cm above the top
of the measure
3. Level the top surface of the aggregate in the metal measure, with a
straightedge or tamping bar.
4. Determine the weight of the aggregate in the measure and record the weight
W in kg.
CALCULATION FOR LOOSE BULK DENSITY
Loose unit weight or bulk density = W/V
Where,
W = Weight of loose aggregate in cylindrical metal measure, kg
V = Volume of cylindrical metal measure, litre

CALCULATION OF VOIDS
The percentage of voids is calculated as follows
Percentage of voids = [(G )/G]*100
Where
G = Specific gravity of the aggregate
= Bulk density in kg/litre
RESULT
The bulk density is reported in kg/litre to the nearest 0.01 kg
The percentage of voids is reported to the nearest whole number.
Mention whether the aggregate is
(a) oven dry,
(b) saturated and surface dry or
(c) with a given percentage of moisture.

OBJECTIVE
For determination of flakiness index of coarse aggregate, where the size of the
coarse aggregate are larger than 6.3mm .
REFERENCE STANDARDS

IS : 2386 (Part I) 1963 Method of test for aggregates for concrete (Part I) Particle
size and shape.
EQUIPMENT & APPARATUS

Thickness gauge

Sieves [63, 50, 40, 31.5, 25, 20, 16, 12.5, 10 & 6.3mm]

Balance [0-10 kg]

Thickness Gauge
PREPARATION SAMPLE
Surface dry samples is used for the test. A minimum number of 200 pieces of any
specified fraction is required to do the test.
PROCEDURE
1. The sample is sieved through IS sieve specified in Table shown below.

Di
mension of Thickness and Length Gauge
2. A minimum of 200 pieces of each fraction is taken and weighed.
3. In order to separate flaky materials, each fraction is then gauged individually
for thickness on a thickness gauge.
4. The total amount of flaky material retained by the thickness gauge is weighed
to an accuracy of 0.1% of the weight of sample.
CALCULATION
In order to calculate the flakiness index of the entire sample of aggregates, first the
weight of each fraction of aggregate passing and retained on the specified set of
sieves is noted (Y1, Y2, Y3, Y4..etc). Each piece of these are tried to be passed
through the slot of the specified thickness of the thickness gauge are found and
weighed (y1, y2, y3, y4etc). Then the flakiness index is the percentage of
materials passed through the thickness gauge on the various thickness gauges,
expressed as a percentage of the total weight of the sample gauged.

REPORT
Flakiness index is reported in percentage to the nearest whole number
SAFETY & PRECAUTIONS

Use hand gloves while removing containers from oven after switching off the
oven.

Use safety shoes, mask & aprons at the time of test.

Thoroughly clean & dry the container before testing.

Special care should be taken that no outer air enters when using the balance.

All parts of the equipment should always be kept clean.

After the end of the test sieve should be clean by smooth brush.

OBJECTIVE

For determination of elongation index of coarse aggregate, where the

the coarse aggregate are larger than 6.3 mm.

size of

REFERENCE STANDARDS
IS: 2386 (Part I) 1963 Method of test for aggregates for concrete (Part I) Particle
size and shape.
EQUIPMENT & APPARATUS

Length gauge

Sieves (63mm,50mm,40mm,31.5mm,25mm,20mm,16mm,12.5mm,10mm)

Balance (0-10kg)

Oven (3000c)

Length Gauge
TEST SAMPLE PREPARATION
Surface dry samples is used for the test. A minimum number of 200 pieces of any
specified fraction is required to do the test.
PROCEDURE
1. The sample is sieved through IS sieve specified Dimension of Thickness and
Length Gauge
2. A minimum of 200 pieces of each fraction is taken and weighed.
3. In order to separate elongated materials, each fraction is then gauged
individually for length in the length gauge.
4. The pieces of aggregate from each fraction tested which could not pass
through the specified gauge length with its long sides elongated are collected
separately to find the total weight of aggregate retained on the length gauge
from each fraction.
5. The total amount of elongated material retained by the length gauge is
weighed to an accuracy of 0.1% of the weight of sample.
CALCULATION

In order to calculate the elongation index of the entire sample of aggregates, first
the weight of each fraction of aggregate passing and retained on the specified set
of sieves is noted (Y1, Y2, Y3, Y4..etc). Each piece of these are tried to be passed
through specified length of the gauge length with its longest side and those
elongated pieces which do not pass the gauge are separated and weighed (y1, y2,
y3, y4etc). Then the elongated index is the total weight of the material retained
on the various length gauges, expressed as a percentage of the total weight of the
sample gauged.

REPORTS
Elongation index is reported in percentage to the nearest whole number.
SAFETY & PRECAUTIONS

Use hand gloves while removing containers from oven after switching off the
oven.

Use safety shoes, mask & aprons at the time of test.

Thoroughly clean & dry the container before testing.

Special care should be taken that no outer air enters when using the balance.

All parts of the equipment should always be kept clean.

After the end of the test sieve should be clean by smooth brush.

SOUNDNESS TEST OF AGGREGATES (IS-2386-PART-5)

Suryakanta | June 19, 2014 | Aggregate, Materials, Tests On Aggregate | 3
Comments
OBJECTIVE
This test is intended to study the resistance of coarse and fine aggregates to
weathering action and to judge the durability of the coarse aggregate.
APPARATUS
Name

Capacity

Least count

Balance

500 g

0.1 g

Balance

5000 g

1g

Oven

105 to 1100C

Sieves

80 mm, 63 mm, 40
mm, 31.5 mm, 25 mm,
20 mm, 16 mm, 12.5
mm, 10 mm, 8.0 mm,
4.75 mm, 4.0 mm, 2.36
mm, 1.18 mm, 600
micron, 300 micron,
150 micron

Wire mesh basket

container

Chemicals and wire

mesh basket
CHEMICAL SOLUTION

Sodium Sulphate Solution

Magnesium Sulphate Solution

PREPARATION OF TEST SAMPLE FOR FINE AGGREGATE

Wet sieve the sample through a nest of IS sieves, the lower being 300 micron
and the upper being 10 mm size.

The material passing 10 mm sieve and retained on 300 micron sieve is then
dried and taken for the test.

The sample collected as above is again sieved through a series of sieves such
as 10 mm, 4.75 mm, 2.36 mm, 1.18 mm, 600 micron and 300 micron.

The amount of sample to be taken for sieving is such that, it will yield not less
than 100 g of each of the following sizes.

Passing

Retained

10 mm

4.75 mm

4.75 mm

2.36 mm

2.36 mm

1.18 mm

1.18 mm

600 micron

600 micron

300 micron

Weigh 100 g of sample from each of the separated fraction and place it in
separate containers for the test.

Note- Fine aggregates sticking in the meshes of the sieves is not used in
preparing the sample.

PREPARATION OF TEST SAMPLE FOR COARSE AGGREGATE

Wash the coarse aggregate through 4.75 mm IS sieve and dry the material
retained on the sieve in an oven maintained at a temp of 105 to 110 0C, till it
attains a constant mass.

Sieve the dried sample to separate it into different size fractions using sieves
of sizes 80 mm, 63 mm, 40 mm, 20 mm, 10 mm, 4.75 mm.

The sample should be of such an amount that it will yield not less than the
following amount of the different sizes, which shall be available in amounts of
5 percent or more.

Size

Yield

10 mm to 4.75 mm

300 g

20 mm to 10 mm

1000 g (consisting of 12.5 mm to 10

mm = 33% and 20 mm to 12.5 mm =
67%)

40 mm to 20 mm

1500 g (consisting of 25 mm to 20
mm = 33% and 40 mm to 25 mm =
67%)

63 mm to 40 mm

3000 g (consisting of 50 mm to 40
mm = 50% and 63 mm to 50 mm =
50%)

80 mm and larger

3000 g

Take proper weight of sample from each fraction and place it in separate
containers for the test.

PROCEDURE

1. Take individual samples in a wire mesh basket and immerse it in the solution
of sodium sulphate or magnesium sulphate for not less than 16 hours nor
more than 18 hours, in such a manner that the solution covers them to a
depth of at least 15 mm.
2. After completion of the immersion period, remove the samples from solution
and allow it to drain for 15 minutes and place it in drying oven.
3. Dry the sample until it attains a constant mass and then remove it from oven
and cool it to room temperature.
4. After cooling again immerse it in the solution as described in step-1.
5. The process of alternate immersion and drying is repeated until the specified
number of cycles as agreed between the purchaser and the vendor is
obtained.
6. After completion of the final cycle and after the sample has been cooled,
wash it to free from sodium sulphate or magnesium sulphate solution. This
may be determined when there is no reaction of the wash water with barium
chloride.
7. Then dry each fraction of the sample to constant temp of 105 to 110 0C and
weigh it.
8. Sieve the fine aggregates over the same sieve on which it was retained
before test.
9. Sieve the coarse aggregate over the sieve shown below for the appropriate
size of particles.
Size of Aggregate

Sieve used to determine loss

63 mm to 40 mm

31.5 mm

40 mm to 20 mm

16.0 mm

20 mm to 10 mm

8.0 mm

10 mm to 4.75 mm

4.0 mm

REPORT
The result should be reported giving the following particulars

Type of solution used for the test

Weight of each fraction of sample before the test.

Material from each fraction of the sample passing through the specified IS
sieve, expressed as a percentage by weight of the fraction.

In the case of particles coarser than 20 mm size before the test, the number
of particles in each fraction before the test and the number of particles
affected classified as to the number disintegrating, splitting, crumbling ,
cracking, flaking etc.

Before and After Soundness Test

REFERENCE

IS-2386 (Part-5)-Methods Of Test For Aggregates For Concrete (Part-5Soundness)

DETERMINATION OF AGGREGATE IMPACT VALUE

AIM:
(i) to determine the impact value of the road aggregates;
(ii) to assess their suitability in road construction on the basis of impact value.

APPARATUS:
The apparatus as per IS: 2386 (Part IV) 1963 consists of:
(i) A testing machine weighing 45 to 60 kg and having a metal base with a painted
lower surface of not less than 30 cm in diameter. It is supported on level and plane
concrete floor of minimum 45 cm thickness. The machine should also have
provisions for fixing its base.
(ii) A cylindrical steel cup of internal diameter 102 mm, depth 50 mm and minimum
thickness 6.3 mm. .
(iii) A metal hammer or tup weighing 13.5 to 14.0 kg the lower end being cylindrical
in shape, 50 mm long, 100.0 mm in diameter, with a 2 mm chamfer at the lower
edge and case hardened. The hammer should slide freely between vertical guides
and be concentric with the cup. Free fall of hammer should be within 3805 mm.
(iv) A cylindrical metal measure having internal diameter 75 mm and depth 50 mm
for measuring aggregates.
(v) Tamping rod 10 mm in diameter and 230 mm long, rounded at one end.
(vi) A balance of capacity not less than 500g, readable and accurate upto 0.1 g.

THEORY:
The property of a material to resist impact is known as toughness. Due to
movement of vehicles on the road the aggregates are subjected to impact resulting
in their breaking down into smaller pieces. The aggregates should therefore have
sufficient toughness to resist their disintegration due to impact. This characteristic
is measured by impact value test. The aggregate impact value is a measure of
resistance to sudden impact or shock, which may differ from its resistance to
gradually applied compressive load.

PROCEDURE:
The test sample consists of aggregates sized 10.0 mm 12.5 mm. Aggregates may
be dried by heating at 100-110 C for a period of 4 hours and cooled.
(i) Sieve the material through 12.5 mm and 10.0mm IS sieves. The aggregates
passing through 12.5mm sieve and retained on 10.0mm sieve comprises the test
material.
(ii) Pour the aggregates to fill about just 1/3 rd depth of measuring cylinder.
(iii) Compact the material by giving 25 gentle blows with the rounded end of the
tamping rod.
(iv) Add two more layers in similar manner, so that cylinder is full.
(v) Strike off the surplus aggregates.
(vi) Determine the net weight of the aggregates to the nearest gram(W).
(vii) Bring the impact machine to rest without wedging or packing up on the level
plate, block or floor, so that it is rigid and the hammer guide columns are vertical.
(viii) Fix the cup firmly in position on the base of machine and place whole of the
test
sample in it and compact by giving 25 gentle strokes with tamping rod.
(ix) Raise the hammer until its lower face is 380 mm above the surface of aggregate
sample in the cup and allow it to fall freely on the aggregate sample. Give 15 such
blows at an interval of not less than one second between successive falls.
(x) Remove the crushed aggregate from the cup and sieve it through 2.36 mm IS
sieves until no further significant amount passes in one minute. Weigh the fraction
passing the sieve to an accuracy of 1 gm. Also, weigh the fraction retained in the
sieve.
Compute the aggregate impact value. The mean of two observations, rounded to
nearest whole number is reported as the Aggregate Impact Value.

OBSERVATIONS
Sample 1
Total weight of dry sample ( W1 gm)

Sample 2

Weight of portion passing 2.36 mm sieve (W 2 gm)

Aggregate Impact Value (percent) = W2 / W1 X 100
Mean =

RESULT:
Aggregate Impact Value =