FINE AGGREGATE

SIEVE ANALYSIS
AIM

To determine the particle size distribution of fine aggregate using the methodology stated in BS812:
part103.1 (1985) and check its conformity to BS882 (1992).

APPARATUS

o Small scoop (1 litre)

o Sample divider (Preferably a riffle box)
o Ventilated oven maintained at 105 ± 5 °C
o Electronic balance of adequate capacity accurate to at least 0.1% of the mass of test sample
o Test sieves of sizes 10mm, 5mm, 2.36mm, 1.18mm, 0.6mm, 0.3mm, 0.15mm and a nesting guard
sieve
o Mechanical sieve shaker (optional)
o Trays that can be heated without damage or change in mass
o Containers of sufficient size to contain test portion plus five times sample volume and 0.075mm
sieve (for washing method only)
TEST PROCEDURE

Sampling

For aggregate of nominal size less than 5mm, when a sample is taken from a heap of aggregate, the
mass collected shall be the total of 10 scoops from the small scoop and shall be taken such that the sample
will accurately represent the aggregate under testing. For this purpose, a small scoop to hold a volume of at
least 1 litre shall be used. Complications such as segregation, collecting samples from moving aggregate
and falling aggregate, conveyor belts etc shall be handled in accordance to BS812 (1989) part 102 clause 5.
On completion of the sampling, make a visual check of the relation of the sample to the material in bulk.

Preparation

Washing and sieving – preferred method for aggregate for aggregates which may contain clay or
other materials likely to cause agglomeration of particles.

Wet both sides of a 75μm test sieve, reserved for use in this test only, and fit a nesting guard sieve
(e.g. 1.18 mm) on top. Mount the sieves in such a way that the suspension passing the test sieve can be run
to waste or, when required, collected in a suitable vessel.

Place the weighed oven dried test portion in a container and add sufficient water to half fill the
container. Agitate the contents so that particles smaller than 75μm are completely separated from coarser
particles. Soaking or continued agitation or, in the case of large particles, brushing may be required to
achieve complete separation.

Pour the suspension of fine solids on to the guarded 75μm test sieve. The suspension passing the
test sieve may be run to waste unless it is required for other purposes. Continue washing the coarse
residue until the water passing the test sieve is clear and then wash all the residues from the container and
sieve(s) into the tray. Remove excess free water by careful decantation through the test sieve, avoiding
transfer of solids and dry the residue in the oven at 105 ± 5 °C until constant mass is achieved. Cool and
record mass.

Avoid excess water flows which may damage or flood the sieves. If some transfer of solids does
occur wash them back into the tray and repeat the operation. Fine sieves are fragile and the integrity of the
mesh should be checked frequently It involves preliminary separation by washing through a fine sieve
before determining particle size distribution by dry sieving.

Dry sieving - This is an alternative method which may be used for coarse and fine aggregates free
from particles which cause agglomeration.

Nest the clean and dry sieves on a fitting receiver in order of increasing aperture size from bottom
to top. Place the dried residue on the top coarsest sieve and cover with a fitting lid. Either by hand or using
the mechanical sieve shaker, shake the sieves for a sufficient time to separate the test sample into the size
fractions determined by the sieve apertures used.

A sample of minimum mass 0.2kg shall be obtained by sample reduction using a sample divider
(preferably a riffle box) which has channels of width of not less than 1.5 times the largest aggregate particle
and shall be made to saturated surface dry state. As an alternative to this is quartering which is described
in BS812 (1989) part 102 clause 6.2. Separate the test portion on an appropriate sieve, e.g. 5mm or 2.6mm.
Weigh the retained and passing fractions to determine the proportion of each present. Determine the
particle size distribution of each fraction separately, reducing where necessary by quartering or by means
of a sample divider if the mass on a sieve exceeds the amount given in the table below.
 Dry the test portions by heating at a temperature of 105 ± 5 °C to achieve a dry mass which is
constant to within 0.1 %, allow it to cool and measure its mass.

Determine the particle size distribution of the original sample by combining the results for each
fraction in the proportions present.

BS test sieve nominal Maximum mass/g

aperture size 450mm diameter sieve 300mm diameter sieve 200mm diameter sieve
10 3000 1500
5 1500 750 350
2.36 450 200
1.18 300 125
0.6 225 100
0.3 150 65
0.15 110 50

Plot the PSD on the graph which has its X axis in logarithmic scale.

REQUIREMENT

Sieve size/mm Overall limits

10 100
5 89 to 100
2.36 60 to 100
1.18 30 to 100
0.6 15 to 100
0.3 5 to 70
0.15 0 to 15
 MATERIAL FINER THAN 0.075mm
AIM

To determine the amount of fines passing through the 0.075mm sieve and check whether it
conforms to BS882 (1992).

APPARATUS

 Small scoop (1 litre)

 Ventilated oven maintained at 105 ± 5 °C
 Electronic balance of adequate capacity accurate to at least 0.1% of the mass of test sample
 Containers of sufficient size to contain test portion plus five times sample volume

TEST PROCEDURE

Sampling

For aggregate of nominal size less than 5mm, when a sample is taken from a heap of aggregate, the
mass collected shall be the total of 10 scoops from the small scoop and shall be taken such that the sample
will accurately represent the aggregate under testing. For this purpose, a small scoop to hold a volume of at
least 1 litre shall be used. Complications such as segregation, collecting samples from moving aggregate
and falling aggregate, conveyor belts etc shall be handled in accordance to BS812 (1989) part 102 clause 5.
On completion of the sampling, make a visual check of the relation of the sample to the material in bulk.

Preparation

Wet both sides of a 75μm test sieve, reserved for use in this test only, and fit a nesting guard sieve
(e.g. 1.18 mm) on top. Mount the sieves in such a way that the suspension passing the test sieve shall be
collected in a suitable vessel of known mass.

Place the weighed oven dried test portion in a container and add sufficient water to half fill the
container. Agitate the contents so that particles smaller than 75μm are completely separated from coarser
particles. Soaking or continued agitation or, in the case of large particles, brushing may be required to
achieve complete separation. Pour the suspension of fine solids on to the guarded 75μm test sieve and dry
the sample using the oven.

Calculate the mass of the fines passing 0.075mm sieve and the percentage mass from the whole
sample.

REQUIREMENT

For crushed aggregate and uncrushed aggregate, this percentage should be lower than 15% and 3%
respectively.
 WATER ABSORPTION
AIM

To determine the water absorption percentage for fine aggregate using test methods stated in
ASTM C 128

APPARATUS

 Sampling tube (300mm by 2000mm minimum)

 Ventilated oven maintained at 105 ± 5 °C
 Electronic balance of adequate capacity accurate to at least 0.1% of the mass of test sample
 Absorbent cloth
 Container with water
 Metal trays

TEST PROCEDURE

Sampling

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.

For fine aggregate in transportation units, sampling tubes may be inserted into the pile at random
locations to extract a minimum of five increments of material to form the sample in the same way as done
in a stockpile.

Preparation

Record mass of container to be used to measure the mass of aggregate (M1).

Dry the test sample to constant weight mass at a temperature of 110 ± 5°C in the container, and
measure the total mass of the contents (M2).

Cool in air at room temperature for 1 to 3 h for test samples of 37.5 mm nominal maximum size, or
longer for larger sizes until the aggregate has cooled to a temperature that is comfortable to handle
(approximately 50°C). Subsequently immerse the aggregate in water at room temperature for a period of
24 ± 4 h.

Remove the test sample from the water and roll it in a large absorbent cloth until all visible films of
water are removed. Wipe the larger particles individually. A moving stream of air is permitted to assist in
the drying operation. Take care to avoid evaporation of water from aggregate pores during the surface-
drying operation. Determine the mass of the test sample (M3).

Calculation
M3 − M2
Water absorption % = 100 ×
M2 − M1
REQUIREMENT

TO BE FOUND
 LIGHTWEIGHT PEICES
AIM

To determine the percentage of lightweight particles in fine aggregate using test methods stated in
ASTM C 123. This test method is used to determine conformance with provisions of Specification C33
pertaining to the amount of lightweight material in fine and coarse aggregates. A heavy liquid with a
specific gravity of 2.0 is used to separate particles which may be classified as coal or lignite. Heavier liquids
are to be used to check the percentages of other lightweight particles such as chert and shale having a
specific gravity less than 2.40.

APPARATUS

 Sampling tube (300mm by 2000mm minimum)

 Ventilated oven maintained at 105 ± 5 °C
 Electronic balance of adequate capacity accurate to at least 0.1% of the mass of test sample
 Absorbent cloth
 Containers
 Skimmer - A piece of 300μm sieve cloth
 Sieves - 300μm and 4.75mm
 Specific Gravity Measurement —A hydrometer conforming to the physical requirement
sections for individual hydrometers of Specification E 100, or a suitable combination of
graduated glassware and balance capable of measuring the liquid specific gravity within ± 0.01

TEST PROCEDURE

Sampling

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.

For fine aggregate in transportation units, sampling tubes may be inserted into the pile at random
locations to extract a minimum of five increments of material to form the sample in the same way as done
in a stockpile.

Preparation

The minimum size of the test specimen shall be as follows:

Maximum nominal size of

Minimum mass of sample/g
aggregate/mm
4.75 200
9.5 1500

If the nominal maximum size of the aggregate to be tested is not listed above, the next larger size
shall be used to determine sample size.

Allow the dried test specimen of fine aggregate to cool to room temperature and then sieve over a
300μm sieve until less than 1 % of the retained material passes the sieve in 1 min of continuous sieving.
Determine the mass of the material coarser than the 300μm sieve to the nearest 0.1 g, and bring this
material to a saturated-surface-dry condition by removing the test sample from the water and rolling it in a
large absorbent cloth until all visible films of water are removed. Wipe the larger particles individually. A
moving stream of air is permitted to assist in the drying operation. Take care to avoid evaporation of water
from aggregate pores during the surface-drying operation.

Then introduce it into the heavy liquidα in a suitable container. The volume of liquid shall be at least
three times the absolute volume of the aggregate. Pour the liquid, including the floating particles, into a
second container, passing it through the skimmer, taking care that only the floating particles are poured off
with the liquid and that none of the fine aggregate that sinks are decanted onto the skimmer. Return to the
first container the liquid that has been collected in the second container and, after further agitation of the
sample by stirring, repeat the decanting process just described until the specimen is free of floating
particles. Wash the decanted particles contained on the skimmer in an appropriate solvent to remove the
heavy liquid. Alcohol is appropriate for 1,1,2,2-tetrabromoethane and water for the zinc-chloride and zinc-
bromide solutions.

After the decanted particles have been washed, allow them to dry. Brush the dry decanted particles
from the skimmer onto the balance pan and determine the mass to the nearest 0.1 g. If more precise
determination is required, the decanted particles shall be dried to constant mass at 110 ± 5°C to determine
the value of W1 used for the calculation to determine percentage light weight pieces.

Drying should shall take place in the hood or out-of-doors if other than zinc chloride or zinc bromide
is used. An oven or hot plate may is permitted to be used to accelerate the drying providing that it is done
in the hood or that the oven is forced-air ventilated to the outside of the building and that a temperature
of 115°C is not exceeded.

Calculation
𝑊1
𝐿 = 100 × ( )
𝑊2
𝐿 − 𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑔𝑒 𝑏𝑦 𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑙𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡𝑤𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑙𝑒𝑠
𝑊1 − 𝑑𝑟𝑦 𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑙𝑒𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑓𝑙𝑜𝑎𝑡
𝑊2 − 𝑑𝑟𝑦 𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑜𝑓 𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑖𝑚𝑒𝑛 𝑐𝑜𝑎𝑟𝑠𝑒𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑛 300𝜇𝑚
α - Heavy liquid shall consist of one of the following:

 A solution of zinc chloride in water (for a specific gravity up to about 2.0).

 A mixture of kerosene with 1,1,2,2-tetrabromoethane, proportioned to produce desired
specific gravities. (1,1,2,2-tetrabromoethane has a specific gravity of about 2.95).
 A solution of zinc bromide in water (for a specific gravity up to about 2.4).
REQUIREMENT

Where

(S) Severe Weathering Region—A cold climate where concrete is exposed to deicing chemicals or other
aggressive agents, or where concrete may become saturated by continued contact with moisture or free
water prior to repeated freezing and thawing.

(M) Moderate Weathering Region—A climate where occasional freezing is expected, but where concrete in
outdoor service will not be continually exposed to freezing and thawing in the presence of moisture or to
deicing chemicals.

(N) Negligible Weathering Region—A climate where concrete is rarely exposed to freezing in the presence
of moisture.
 ACID SOLUBILITY CHLORIDE
AIM

To determine the water-soluble chloride salt content of aggregate and check whether it conforms to
BS882 (1992).

APPARATUS

 Small scoop (1 litre)

 Ventilated oven maintained at 105 ± 5 °C
 Electronic balance of adequate capacity accurate to at least 0.1% of the mass of test sample
 Two plastics or metal bottles, wide-mouthed, screw-capped. 2 L when testing fine aggregates.
 Two filter funnels, of approximately 100 mm diameter with medium grade1) filter papers of a
diameter appropriate to the size of the funnel.
 Beakers
 Apparatus for the determination of the chloride content of the extracts (see 9.2)
 Pipette, 100 mL size, grade B in accordance with BS 1797.
 Stoppered conical flasks, 250 mL capacity.
 Graduated measuring cylinder, capacity 10 mL, grade B in accordance with BS 1797.
 Wash bottle, containing distilled water or water of equivalent quality.
 Two burettes, 50 mL size, grade B in accordance with BS 1797.
 Pipette, 25 mL size, grade B in accordance with BS 1797.
 Apparatus for the preparation of reagents (see clause 6)
 Balance, capable of weighing up to 100 g accurate to 0.001 g. The balance shall be regularly
calibrated as specified in BS 5781-1.
 Two volumetric flasks, capacity 1 000 mL, grade B in accordance with BS 1797.
 Amber-coloured glass reagent bottle.
 Plain glass reagent bottles.
 Graduated measuring cylinder, capacity 500 mL, grade B in accordance with BS 1797.
 Fume cupboard.

REAGENTS

 Silver nitrate solution (c (AgNO3) = 0.100 mol/L), prepared by drying about 20 g of silver nitrate
at a temperature of 105 ± 5 °C for 1 h to 2 h, allowing to cool and then weighing 16.987 g of the
dried silver nitrate, dissolving in distilled water and diluting to 1 000 mL in a volumetric flask.
Store the solution in the amber-coloured glass reagent bottle and protect from prolonged
exposure to sunlight.
 Thiocyanate solution (NH4SCN) or (KSCN) equal to approximately 0.1 mol/L, prepared by
dissolving 10.5 g of potassium thiocyanate or 8.5 g of ammonium thiocyanate in distilled water
and diluting to 1 000 mL in a volumetric flask.
 3,5,5-trimethylhexan-1-ol.
 Ammonium iron (III) sulphate indicator solution, prepared by adding 60 g of water to 50 g of
ammonium iron (III) sulphate, warming to dissolve, and adding 10 mL nitric acid (6.2.3). Allow
the solution to cool and store in a glass bottle.

TEST PROCEDURE

Sampling
 For aggregate of nominal size less than 5mm, when a sample is taken from a heap of aggregate, the
mass collected shall be the total of 10 scoops from the small scoop and shall be taken such that the sample
will accurately represent the aggregate under testing. For this purpose, a small scoop to hold a volume of at
least 1 litre shall be used. Complications such as segregation, collecting samples from moving aggregate
and falling aggregate, conveyor belts etc shall be handled in accordance to BS812 (1989) part 102 clause 5.
On completion of the sampling, make a visual check of the relation of the sample to the material in bulk.

Ensure that the sample is representative of the moisture content as well as the solids, by preventing
loss of moisture except through evaporation, throughout the sampling procedure and at any subsequent
stage up to the point of test. This is necessary because where the aggregate to be tested carries surface
water the chlorides will normally be dissolved in both this and the absorbed water and hence the chloride
content will be affected by migration of water through the bulk materials.

Preparation

For nominal maximum size of aggregate 28 or less, minimum mass of sample shall be 5kg. The
sample may be reduced to this mass by sample reduction procedures such as using riffle box.

For fine aggregates use the two bottles of 2 L capacity. Weigh each bottle and record its mass to the
nearest 5 g. Transfer the test portion obtained to the bottles, weigh bottles and contents and record their
mass to the nearest 5 g. Calculate the mass of aggregate in each bottle by difference.

Add to each bottle a mass of distilled or demineralized water equal to the mass of the test portion.
Fasten the water-tight bottle closures and mix the contents by occasional shaking or rolling for a minimum
of 24 h. (Continuous mechanical agitation or rolling equipment, which may give a more efficient extraction,
can be used. With some types of aggregates, e.g. from hot desert countries. the total chloride content may
not be extracted in 24 h of soaking in water. For these, an alternative method for determining the total
chloride content using a nitric acid extract is used).

Filter the extracts through dry, medium grade filter papers until at least 100 mL of clear or slightly
opalescent filtrates have been collected in clean dry beakers. Take 100 mL of the filtered extract by means
of the pipette and transfer to the flask. Add 5 mL of nitric acid to the flask followed by silver nitrate solution
from a burette until all the chloride has been precipitated and then add excess. Sufficient silver nitrate is
required to ensure a titre of a minimum of 3 mL of thiocyanate solution (When aggregates containing
sulphide (e.g. slags) are being analysed, boil the solution for 3 min to 5 min in a fume cupboard after adding
the nitric acid but before adding silver nitrate. A white precipitate of sulphur may form, but it is not
necessary to filter this off. Cool and add the silver nitrate solution).

Record the total volume (V2) of silver nitrate solution added. Add 2mL of 3,5,5-trimethylhexan-1-ol,
stopper, and shake the flask vigorously to coagulate the precipitate. Carefully loosen the stopper, avoiding
loss of solution and rinse the stopper with distilled water, collecting the washings in the solution.

Add 5 mL of the ammonium iron (III) sulphate indicator solution followed by the standardized
thiocyanate solution from a burette until the first permanent colour change occurs, that is from white
opalescence to pale brown. Note the volume (V3) of thiocyanate solution added. Repeat the procedure
with the extract from the second test portion.

Calculation

Calculate the concentration of chloride ions, C, present in the extracts from test portions with a
water: aggregate ratio of 1 : 1, as a percentage by mass of dry aggregate from the equation:

𝐶 = 0.003546 (𝑉2 – 10𝑇 × 𝑉3 )

Where
 V2 is the volume of silver nitrate solution added/mL

V3 is the volume of standardized thiocyanate solution added/mL

T is the concentration of the standardized thiocyanate solution/mol/dm3

REQUIREMENT
 ACID SOLUBILITY SULPHATE
AIM

To determine the total sulphate content by acid extraction of a fine aggregate sample.

APPARATUS

 Small scoop (1 litre)

 Ventilated oven maintained at 105 ± 5 °C
 Electronic balance of adequate capacity accurate to at least 0.1% of the mass of test sample
 Test sieves, 5 mm, 1 mm and 150 μm
 Balance, capable of weighing up to 100g accurate to 0.001g.
 Beakers, capacity 250mL and 500mL
 Electric hot-plate, capable of being controlled to boil the contents of beakers without causing
undue overheating.
 Fume cupboard.
 Two filter funnels, of approximately 100mm diameter with medium grade and fine grade filter
papers of a diameter appropriate to the size of the funnels.
 Dropping pipette, capacity 10 mL.
 Sintered silica filtering crucibles, porosity grade 4, approximately 35mm in diameter and 40mm
in height (These are not required if filtration through fine grade filter papers is preferred)
 Ignition crucibles, approximately 35 mm in diameter and 40 mm in height and capable of
maintaining a constant mass when heated to 800 °C (These crucibles are not required if the
filtering crucibles are used. Porcelain, silica or platinum are suitable materials for ignition
crucibles).
 A suitable means of igniting the precipitate, preferably an electric muffle furnace capable of
reaching and maintaining 800 °C.
 Dessicator.
 Apparatus for preparation of reagents
 Amber-coloured glass reagent bottle.

REAGENTS

 Barium chloride, 5 % solution, made by dissolving 50 g of barium chloride in 1 L of water, and

filtered before use if necessary.
 Dilute hydrochloric acid, made by diluting 100 mL of concentrated hydrochloric acid (relative
density 1.18) to 1 L with water.
 Silver nitrate solution, made by dissolving 0.5 g of silver nitrate in 100 mL of water. Store the
solution in an amber-coloured glass reagent bottle.

TEST PROCEDURE

Sampling

For aggregate of nominal size less than 5mm, when a sample is taken from a heap of aggregate, the
mass collected shall be the total of 10 scoops from the small scoop and shall be taken such that the sample
will accurately represent the aggregate under testing. For this purpose, a small scoop to hold a volume of at
least 1 litre shall be used. Complications such as segregation, collecting samples from moving aggregate
and falling aggregate, conveyor belts etc shall be handled in accordance to BS812 (1989) part 102 clause 5.
On completion of the sampling, make a visual check of the relation of the sample to the material in bulk.
 Ensure that the sample is representative of the moisture content as well as the solids, by preventing
loss of moisture except through evaporation, throughout the sampling procedure and at any subsequent
stage up to the point of test. This is necessary because where the aggregate to be tested carries surface
water the chlorides will normally be dissolved in both this and the absorbed water and hence the sulphate
content will be affected by migration of water through the bulk materials.

Preparation

For nominal maximum size of aggregate 5 or less, minimum mass of sample shall be 0.2kg. The
sample may be reduced to this mass by sample reduction procedures such as using riffle box.

Dry the sub-sample by heating at a temperature of 105 ± 5 °C to achieve a constant mass to within
0.1 %.

Weigh accurately to the nearest 0.001 g about 3 g of the test portion (prepared as described in 6.3)
and record the mass (m1). Place it in a 250 mL beaker, add 100 mL of the diluted hydrochloric acid and stir.
Repeat with a second duplicate 3 g of the test portion, and follow the procedure for both (Aggregates
containing significant amounts of carbonates will froth at this stage. In these cases add the acid slowly
while continuously stirring. Aggregates containing sulphide will release H2S on acidification and this will be
noticeable by its smell. In these cases there is a danger that this procedure will overestimate the sulphate
content because of sulphide oxidation).

If the aggregates contain sulphide, place 100mL of the diluted hydrochloric acid in a 250 mL beaker
and heat to boiling point. Remove from the source of heat and, while stirring the acid solution, sprinkle

The weighed analytical portion of about 3g mass on to the acid. Heat to boiling and simmer gently
for 15 min in a fume cupboard. Filter through a medium filter paper. Ensure that the filtrate is clear. If not,
refilter with a fine filter paper. Wash thoroughly with hot distilled water. Collect the filtrate and washings in
a 500mL beaker and dilute to 300mL with distilled water.

Boil and add 10 mL barium chloride solution dropwise with constant stirring. Continue boiling until
the precipitate is properly formed and then let the solution stand at just below boiling point for at least 30
min then leave to cool for 24h or overnight. Transfer the precipitate of barium sulphate with extreme care
to a previously ignited and weighed sintered silica filter crucible using suction. Alternatively transfer the
precipitate with extreme care to a suitable filter paper in the glass funnel and filter.

In either case wash the precipitate several times with hot distilled water until the washings are free
from chloride as indicated by an absence of turbidity when a drop is tested with the solution of silver
nitrate. If a sintered silica filter crucible is used remove it from the filter flask and dry at 105 ± 5 °C for
approximately 30 min and gradually raise the temperature to 800 °C either in an electric muffle furnace or
by other suitable means until no further loss in mass occurs; 15 min at 800 °C should suffice.

Cool the crucible in a desiccator and weigh to the nearest 0.001 g, and calculate the mass of the
precipitate (m2) from the increase in mass of the crucible. If the precipitate is filtered through a filter paper,
transfer the filter paper and precipitate to a previously ignited and weighed crucible. If an electric muffle
furnace is used, place the crucible and contents in it at room temperature and gradually raise the
temperature to 800 °C. If a bunsen or other burner is used, first dry the filter paper and precipitate slowly
over a small flame taking care to char the filter paper slowly rather than to allow it to inflame, otherwise
some of the precipitate may be lost, and gradually raise the temperature to red heat.

Calculation

Calculate the total sulphate content, as a percentage by mass of the dry aggregate, from the
equation:
 𝑚2 × 34.3
𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑔𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑆𝑂3 =
𝑚1

The mean total sulphate content of the two test portions is expressed to the nearest 0.01 % (as SO3)
of the dry mass of aggregate. Repeat the test starting with new 3g analytical portions if the individual
results differ by more than 0.05 % (SO3).

REQUIREMENT

TO BE FOUND
 SPECIFIC GRAVITY
AIM

To determine the bulk specific gravity for fine aggregate using test methods stated in ASTM C 128

APPARATUS

 Sampling tube (300mm by 2000mm minimum)

 Ventilated oven maintained at 105 ± 5 °C
 Electronic balance of adequate capacity accurate to at least 0.1% of the mass of test sample
 Absorbent cloth
 Container with water
 Pycnometer

TEST PROCEDURE

Sampling

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.

For fine aggregate in transportation units, sampling tubes may be inserted into the pile at random
locations to extract a minimum of five increments of material to form the sample in the same way as done
in a stockpile.

Preparation

Record mass of container to be used to measure the mass of aggregate (M1). Fill the pycnometer to
calibrated capacity and measure the total mass of pycnometer and water (B)

Dry the test sample to constant weight mass at a temperature of 110 ± 5°C in the container, and
measure the total mass of the contents (M2). Hence the mass of oven dry aggregate will be (M2-M1 = A)

Cool in air at room temperature for 1 to 3 h for test samples of 37.5 mm nominal maximum size, or
longer for larger sizes until the aggregate has cooled to a temperature that is comfortable to handle
(approximately 50°C). Subsequently immerse the aggregate in water at room temperature for a period of
24 ± 4 h.

Remove the test sample from the water and roll it in a large absorbent cloth until all visible films of
water are removed. Wipe the larger particles individually. A moving stream of air is permitted to assist in
the drying operation. Take care to avoid evaporation of water from aggregate pores during the surface-
drying operation. Determine the mass of the test sample at SSD state (S).

Partially fill the pycnometer with water. Immediately introduce into the pycnometer 500±10 g of
saturated surface-dry fine aggregate prepared & fill with additional water to approximately 90 % of
capacity. Manually roll, invert, and agitate the pycnometer, or mechanically agitate the pycnometer, to
eliminate all air bubbles. Accomplish mechanical agitation by external vibration of the pycnometer in a
manner that will not degrade the sample. A level of agitation adjusted to just set individual particles in
motion is sufficient to promote de-airing without deg radation. Adjust the temperature of the pycnometer
and its contents to 23±1.7°C (73.4±3°F), if necessary, by immersion in circulating water, and bring the water
level in the pycnometer to its calibrated capacity. Determine the total mass of the pycnometer, specimen,
and water (C).

Calculation
𝐴
𝐵𝑢𝑙𝑘 𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑖𝑓𝑖𝑐 𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑣𝑖𝑡𝑦 =
𝐵+𝑆−𝐶
Where

A - weight of oven-dry specimen in air/g

B - weight of pycnometer filled with water/g calculated by 𝐵 = 0.9975 × 𝑉 + 𝑊

Where V – volume of pycnometer/mL and W – weight of empty pycnometer/g

C - weight of pycnometer with specimen and water to calibration mark/g

S - weight of the saturated surface-dry specimen/g

REQUIREMENT

TO BE FOUND
 BULK DENSITY
AIM

To determine the amount of fines passing through the 0.075mm sieve and check whether it
conforms to BS882 (1992).

APPARATUS

 Small scoop (1 litre)

 Electronic balance of adequate capacity accurate to at least 0.2% of the mass of test sample
 Straight metal tamping rod, of circular cross section, 16 mm in diameter and 600 mm long,
rounded at one end.
 2 Cylindrical metal containers
o Volume 0.007m3, internal diameter approx. 200mm, internal depth approx. 225mm,
minimum thickness of metal 3mm for uncompacted bulk density of aggregate nominal
size less than and inclusive of 6mm
o Volume 0.003m3, internal diameter approx. 150mm, internal depth approx. 150mm,
minimum thickness of metal 3mm for compacted bulk density of aggregate nominal
size less than and inclusive of 6mm

TEST PROCEDURE – COMPACTED BULK DENSITY

Sampling

For aggregate of nominal size less than 5mm, when a sample is taken from a heap of aggregate, the
mass collected shall be the total of 10 scoops from the small scoop and shall be taken such that the sample
will accurately represent the aggregate under testing. For this purpose, a small scoop to hold a volume of at
least 1 litre shall be used. Complications such as segregation, collecting samples from moving aggregate
and falling aggregate, conveyor belts etc shall be handled in accordance to BS812 (1989) part 102 clause 5.
On completion of the sampling, make a visual check of the relation of the sample to the material in bulk.

Preparation

The container shall be calibrated by determining the mass of water at 20 °C ± 2 °C required to fill it
so that no meniscus is present above the rim of the container. The actual volume in cubic metres shall then
be obtained by dividing the mass of the water in kilograms by 1000 (V)

The test for bulk density shall be made on oven-dry or saturated surface-dry material.

Fill the container of known mass (M) about one-third full with the thoroughly mixed aggregate by
means of a shovel or scoop, the aggregate being discharged from a height not exceeding 50 mm above the
top of the container. Take care to prevent, so far as is possible, segregation of the particle sizes of which
the sample is composed. Then give 30 compactive blows to the aggregate, each blow being given by
allowing the tamping rod to fall freely from a height of 50 mm above the surface of the aggregate, the
blows being evenly distributed over the surface. Add a further similar quantity of aggregate in the same
manner and give the same number of blows. Fill the container to overflowing, tamp it again with the same
number of blows, and remove the surplus aggregate 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 add
aggregate to fill any obvious depressions. The surface may be struck off, using the tamping rod as a straight
edge. Then determine the mass of the aggregate in the container. Make two tests and calculate the bulk
density in megagrams per cubic metre using the calibrated volume determined, from the mean of the two
masses
 Calculation
𝑉
𝐵𝑢𝑙𝑘 𝑑𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑦 =
𝑀
REQUIREMENT

TO BE FOUND
 ACID SOLUBLE MATERIAL
AIM

To determine the amount of acid-soluble material in both of the size fractions of fine aggregate, all
passing a 5mm test sieve, separated by sieving on a 600μm test sieve using test method stated in BS
812:part 119.

APPARATUS

 Small scoop (1 litre)

 Ventilated oven maintained at 105 ± 5 °C
 Electronic balance of adequate capacity accurate to at least 0.1% of the mass of test sample
 Test sieves of 5mm and 0.6mm
 Two beakers or two wide-mouth conical flasks, of 500 mL capacity.
 Medium grade filter papers
 Two filter funnels, appropriate to the diameter of the filter papers.
 Measuring cylinder, of 25 mL capacity
 An electric hot plate, capable of being controlled to maintain the temperature of the contents
of the flasks at just below boiling point
 A wash bottle
 Two evaporating basins of about 250mL
 A desicator of sufficient size to hold the evaporating basin
 Sample divider (Preferable riffle box)

REAGENTS

 Hydrochloric acid solution (approximately 4 mol/L), prepared by diluting 360 mL of

concentrated hydrochloric acid (p1.18) to 1 L with distilled water.
 Distilled water

TEST PROCEDURE

Sampling

For aggregate of nominal size less than 5mm, when a sample is taken from a heap of aggregate, the
mass collected shall be the total of 10 scoops from the small scoop and shall be taken such that the sample
will accurately represent the aggregate under testing. For this purpose, a small scoop to hold a volume of at
least 1 litre shall be used. Complications such as segregation, collecting samples from moving aggregate
and falling aggregate, conveyor belts etc shall be handled in accordance to BS812 (1989) part 102 clause 5.
On completion of the sampling, make a visual check of the relation of the sample to the material in bulk.

Preparation

Dry the test sample by heating at a temperature of 105 ± 5 °C until constant mass is achieved, cool
and sieve through a 600μm test sieve and collect the fraction passing the sieve in a fitting receiver. To
prevent blinding of the sieve apertures by overloading, place an amount of aggregate on the sieve such
that the amount retained on completion of sieving is not greater than 75g on a 200mm diameter sieve or
not greater than 110g on a 300mm diameter sieve. Continue sieving until not more than 1 g of undersize
material passes the sieve during 1 min. If mechanical sieving is used, check that separation is complete by
hand sieving briefly
 Reduce the specimen to 50 ± 5g using the riffle box and weigh it to the nearest 0.1g (M1). Dry a
medium grade filter paper by heating in an oven at a temperature of 105 ± 5 °C for 60 ± 15 min. Cool at
room temperature for 30min, weigh and record its mass to the nearest 0.1g (M2).

Transfer the weighed test portion of fine aggregate fraction to a 500mL beaker or conical flask and
add 25 mL of the dilute hydrochloric acid solution and agitate the contents of the flask. When
effervescence is considerable add the acid with care to avoid loss of material. When any effervescence has
ceased add a further 25mL of dilute acid and agitate. Continue adding 25mL portions of the dilute
hydrochloric acid until no further effervescence occurs on adding the acid.

Remove the flask from the source of heat and decant the solution through the weighed filter paper
supported in a suitable filter funnel. Add 50 mL hot, but not boiling, distilled water to the residual
undissolved aggregate in the flask, agitate and decant the water through the filter paper. Repeat the
washing and decanting process at least five times.

Wash the residue from the flask into an evaporating basin with water, ensuring that all the
undissolved aggregate is transferred. Decant the supernatant liquid from the basin through the filter paper.
When all the liquid has been drained, place the filter paper and its contents in the evaporating basin with
the residue and dry in an oven at a temperature of 105 ± 5 °C for 16 ± 1h or until constant mass is achieved.
Cool to room temperature in a desiccator. Weigh the dried residual aggregate plus the filter paper and its
contents and record the mass to the nearest 0.1g (M3).

Calculation
𝑀1 + 𝑀2 – 𝑀3
% 𝑎𝑐𝑖𝑑 − 𝑠𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑏𝑙𝑒 𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑎𝑙 = × 100
𝑀1
M1 is the mass of dried test portion/g

M2 is the mass of dried filter paper/g

M3 is the mass of dried residue plus filter paper/g

REQUIREMENT

TO BE FOUND
 CLAY LUMPS AND FRIABLE PARTICLES
AIM

To determine the approximate amount of clay lumps and friable particles in aggregates with the test
method stated in ASTM C142.

APPARATUS

 Electronic balance of adequate capacity accurate to at least 0.1% of the mass of test sample
 Rust-resistant containers of a size and shape that will permit the spreading of the sample on
the bottom in a thin layer.
 Sieves
 Ventilated oven maintained at 105 ± 5 °C

TEST PROCEDURE

Sampling

Aggregate for this test method shall consist of the material remaining after completion of testing in
accordance with Test Method C 117.

Test samples of fine aggregate shall consist of the particles coarser than a 1.18 mm sieve which shall
account to a mass not less than 25 g.

Dry test sample to a substantially constant mass at a temperature of 110 ± 5°C

Preparation

Determine the mass of the test sample to an accuracy of 0.025g and spread it in a thin layer on the
bottom of the container, cover it with distilled water, and soak it for a period of 24 ± 4 h. Roll and squeeze
particles individually between the thumb and forefinger to attempt to break the particle into smaller sizes.

Do not use the fingernails to break up particles, or press particles against a hard surface or each
other. Classify any particles that can be broken with the fingers into fines removable by wet sieving as clay
lumps or friable particles. After all discernible clay lumps and friable particles have been broken, separate
the detritus from the remainder of the sample by wet sieving over 850μm sieve.

Perform the wet sieving by passing water over the sample through the sieve while manually
agitating the sieve, until all undersize material has been removed. Remove the retained particles carefully
from the sieve, dry to substantially constant mass at a temperature of 110 ± 5°C, allow to cool, and
determine the mass to the nearest 0.025g.

Calculation
𝑀−𝑅
𝑃= × 100
𝑀
where:

P = percent of clay lumps and friable particles,

M = mass of test sample (the mass of the portion coarser than 1.18 mm)

R = mass of particles retained on designated sieve as determined.

REQUIREMENT

Where

(S) Severe Weathering Region—A cold climate where concrete is exposed to deicing chemicals or other
aggressive agents, or where concrete may become saturated by continued contact with moisture or free
water prior to repeated freezing and thawing.

(M) Moderate Weathering Region—A climate where occasional freezing is expected, but where concrete in
outdoor service will not be continually exposed to freezing and thawing in the presence of moisture or to
deicing chemicals.

(N) Negligible Weathering Region—A climate where concrete is rarely exposed to freezing in the presence
of moisture.
 POTENTIAL REACTIVITY
AIM

To determine the potential reactivity of an aggregate with alkalis in Portland cement concrete with
the test method stated in ASTM C 289 and check with the requirement in ASTM C 33.

APPARATUS

 Electronic balance of adequate capacity accurate to at least 0.1% of the mass of test sample
 Crushing and grinding equipment
 300μm and 150μm square-hole, woven wire-cloth sieves
 Containers—Reaction containers of 50 to 75-mL capacity, made of corrosion-resistant steel or
other corrosion resistant material, and fitted with airtight covers. Such suitability can be
demonstrated by a change in the alkalinity of the sodium hydroxide solution (Rc, Section on
Reduction in Alkalinity) when used alone as a blank in the container in question, of less than 10
mmol/L.
 Constant temperature Bath—A liquid bath capable of maintaining a temperature of 80 ± 1°C
for 24h.

REAGENTS

 Sodium Hydroxide, Standard Solution (1.000 ± 0.010N)

 Hydrochloric acid (1.19 kg/L)
 Hydrochloric acid (1 + 1)—Mix equal volumes of concentrated HCl (1.19 kg/L) and water
 Hydrochloric acid, Standard (0.05 N)
 Hydrofluoric acid (approximately 50 % HF)
 Concentrated sulphuric acid (sp gr 1.84)
 Phenolphthalein indicator


PROCEDURE

Sampling

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.

For fine aggregate in transportation units, sampling tubes may be inserted into the pile at random
locations to extract a minimum of five increments of material to form the sample in the same way as done
in a stockpile. A sample of minimum mass 10kg should be obtained.

Preparation

Crush the sample in a jaw-crusher using small portions at a time, retaining all fractions, until the
sample passes a 4.75mm sieve. Reduce the crushed sample to 300 ± 5 g by splitting in accordance with
Practice C 702.
 Crush or grind the sample in small portions using a disk pulverizer, rotary mill device, or mortar and
pestle discarding all material that passes the 150μm sieve. An over-pulverized sample may not produce the
correct chemical test results. A properly pulverized sample will have about 110 to 150 g of material
remaining on the 150μm sieve after washing.

To ensure that all material finer than the 150μm sieve has been removed, wash the sample over a
150μm sieve. Dry the washed sample at 105 ± 5°C for 20 ± 4 h. Cool the sample and again sieve on the
150μm sieve. If inspection of the sample indicates the presence of silty or clayey coatings on particles,
repeat the washing and drying procedure, and sieve as before over the 150μm sieve. Reserve the portion
retained on the 150μm sieve for the test sample.

Weigh out three representative 25.00 ± 0.05g portions of the dry 150μm to 300μm test sample
prepared. Place one portion in each of the three of the reaction containers, and add by means of a pipette,
25 mL of the standard NaOH solution. To a fourth reaction container, by means of a pipette, add 25 mL of
the same NaOH solution to serve as a blank. Seal the four containers and gently swirl them to liberate
trapped air.

Immediately after the containers have been sealed, place them in a liquid bath maintained at 80 ±
1.0°C. After 24 ± 1⁄4h, remove the containers from the bath and cool them, for 15 ± 2 min, under running
tap water having a temperature below 30°C.

Immediately after the containers have been cooled, open them and filter the solution from the
aggregate residue. Use a porcelain Gooch crucible with a disk of rapid, analytical-grade filter paper cut to fit
the bottom of the crucible, setting the crucible in a rubber crucible holder in a funnel. Place a dry test tube,
35 to 50mL capacity, in the filter flask to collect the filtrate, and seat the funnel in the neck of the filter
flask. With the aspirator in operation or the vacuum line open, decant a small quantity of the solution onto
the filter paper so it will seat properly in the crucible. Without stirring the contents of the container, decant
the remaining free liquid into the crucible.

When the decantation of the liquid has been completed, discontinue the vacuum and transfer the
solids remaining in the container to the crucible and pack in place with the aid of a stainless-steel spatula.
Then apply and adjust the vacuum to approximately 51kPa. Continue the filtration until further filtration
yields filtrate at the approximate rate of 1 drop every 10 s; reserve the filtrate for further tests.

Record the total amount of time during which the vacuum is applied as the filtration time; make
every effort to achieve an equal filtration time for all samples in a set, by uniformity of procedure in the
assembly of the filtration apparatus and the packing of the solids in the crucible.

Filter the blank according to the former procedure and apply the vacuum for a length of time equal
to the average taken for the other three specimens.

Immediately following the completion of filtration, stir the filtrate to assure homogeneity, then take
by pipet an aliquot of 10 mL of the filtrate and dilute with water to 200 mL in a volumetric flask. Reserve
this diluted solution for the determination of the dissolved SiO2 and the reduction in alkalinity.

If the diluted filtrate is not to be analyzed within 4h following completion of the filtration, transfer
the solution to a clean, dry polyethylene container and close the container by means of a stopper or tight-
fitting cap or lid.

Finding dissolved silica by gravimetric method:

Transfer by pipet 100mL of the dilute solution to an evaporating dish, preferably of platinum for
speed in evaporation, add 5 to 10 mL of HCl (1.19 kg/L), and evaporate to dryness on a steam bath.

Without heating the residue further, treat it with 5 to 10 mL of HCl (1.19 kg/L) and then an equal
amount of water, or at once pour 10 to 20 mL of HCl (1 + 1) upon the residue. Cover the dish and digest for
10 min on the steam bath or a hot plate. Dilute the solution with an equal volume of hot water, filter
immediately through quantitative-grade, low–ash filter paper, and wash the separated silica (SiO2)
thoroughly with hot water and reserve the residue.

Again evaporate the filtrate to dryness, baking the residue in an oven for 1 h at 105 to 110°C. Take
up the residue with 10 to 15 mL of HCl (1 + 1) and heat on the bath or hot plate. Dilute the solution with an
equal volume of hot water and catch and wash the small amount of SiO2 it contains on another filter
paper. This second evaporation is necessary only when determining the concentration of the standard
sodium metasilicate solution. For the other test solutions, it can be eliminated.

Transfer the papers containing the residue to a platinum crucible. Dry and ignite the papers, first at
a low heat until the carbon of the filter paper is completely consumed without inflaming, and finally at
1100 to 1200°C until the mass remains constant.

Treat the SiO2 thus obtained, which will contain small amounts of impurities, in the crucible with a
few drops of water, about 10 mL of HF, and one drop of H2SO4, and evaporate cautiously to dryness on the
steam bath. Finally, heat the small residue at 1050 to 1100°C for 1 to 2 min, cool, and determine the mass.
The difference between this determination and that previously obtained represents the amount of SiO2.

Calculation

𝑆𝑐 = 3330 × 𝑊
where:

Sc = concentration of SiO2 in mmol/L in the original filtrate

W = grams of SiO2 found in 100 mL of the dilute solution.

Finding Reduction in Alkalinity

Transfer by pipet a 20-mL aliquot of the dilute solution (7.5) to a 125mL Erlenmeyer flask, add 2 or 3
drops of phenolphthalein solution, and titrate with 0.05N HCl to the phenolphthalein end point.

Calculation
20𝑁
𝑅𝑐 = ( ) (𝑉3 − 𝑉2 ) × 100
𝑉1
N = normality of the HCl used for the titration

V1 = millilitres of dilute filtrate obtained in the last step of preparation

V2 = millilitres of HCl used to attain the phenolphthalein end point in the test sample

V3 = millilitres of HCl used to attain the phenolphthalein end point in the blank

REQUIREMENT

The plotted values of Sc value and Rc values should fall on the inoccuous region of the graph below
for the aggregate to be acceptable for use.
 ORGANIC IMPURITIES
AIM

This test method covers two procedures for an approximate determination of the presence of
injurious organic impurities in fine aggregates that are to be used in concrete using test methods stated in
ASTM C 40.

APPARATUS

 Sampling tube (300mm by 2000mm minimum)

 Ventilated oven maintained at 105 ± 5 °C
 Electronic balance of adequate capacity accurate to at least 0.1% of the mass of test sample
 Glass Bottles—Colorless glass graduated bottles, approximately 240 to 470-mL (8 to 16-oz)
nominal capacity, equipped with watertight stoppers or caps, not soluble in the specified
reagents. In no case shall the maximum outside thickness of the bottles, measured along the
line of sight used for the color comparison, be greater than 63.5mm or less than 38.1mm. The
graduations on the bottles shall be in millilitres, or ounces (U.S. fluid), except that unmarked
bottles may be calibrated and scribed with graduations by the user. In such case, graduation
marks are required at only three points as follows:
o Standard Color Solution Level—75 mL (21⁄2 oz (U.S. fluid))
o Fine Aggregate Level—130 mL (41⁄2 oz (U.S. fluid))
o NaOH Solution Level—200 mL (7 oz (U.S. fluid)).
REAGENTS

 Reagent Sodium Hydroxide Solution (3 %)—Dissolve 3 parts by mass of reagent grade sodium
hydroxide (NaOH) in 97 parts of water.
 Standard Color Solution—Dissolve reagent grade potassium dichromate (K2Cr2O7) in
concentrated sulfuric acid (sp gr 1.84) at the rate of 0.250g/100 mL of acid. The solution must
be freshly made for the color comparison using gentle heat if necessary to effect solution.
TEST PROCEDURE

Sampling

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.

For fine aggregate in transportation units, sampling tubes may be inserted into the pile at random
locations to extract a minimum of five increments of material to form the sample in the same way as done
in a stockpile.

Preparation

Fill a glass bottle to the approximately 130ml level with the sample of the fine aggregate to be
tested.

Add the sodium hydroxide solution until the volume of the fine aggregate and liquid, indicated after
shaking, is approximately 200mL. Stopper the bottle, shake vigorously, and then allow to stand for 24h.
 There are two procedures with which this test can be done. One procedure uses a standard color
solution and the other uses a glass color standard.

Standard Color Solution Procedure

At the end of the 24-h standing period, fill a glass bottle to the approximately 75ml level with the
fresh standard color solution, prepared not longer than 2h previously. Hold the bottle with the test sample
and the bottle with the standard color solution side-by-side, and compare the color of light transmitted
through the supernatant liquid above the sample with the color of light transmitted through the standard
color solution. Record whether the color of the supernatant liquid is lighter, darker, or equal to the color of
the standard color solution.

REQUIREMENT

When a sample subjected to this procedure produces a color darker than the standard color, the
fine aggregate under test shall be considered to possibly contain injurious organic impurities. It is advisable
to perform further tests before approving the fine aggregate for use in concrete.
COARSE AGGREGATE
 SIEVE ANALYSIS
AIM

To determine the particle size distribution of coarse aggregate using the methodology stated in
BS812: part103.1 (1985) and check its conformity to BS882 (1992).

APPARATUS

o Small scoop (1 litre)

o Sample divider (Preferably a riffle box)
o Ventilated oven maintained at 105 ± 5 °C
o Electronic balance of adequate capacity accurate to at least 0.1% of the mass of test sample
o Test sieves of sizes 50mm, 37.5mm, 20mm, 14mm, 10mm, 5mm, 2.36mm and a nesting guard
sieve
o Mechanical sieve shaker (optional)
o Trays that can be heated without damage or change in mass
o Containers of sufficient size to contain test portion plus five times sample volume and 0.075mm
sieve (for washing method only)
TEST PROCEDURE

Sampling

For aggregate of nominal size less than 5mm, when a sample is taken from a heap of aggregate, the
mass collected shall be the total of 10 scoops from the small scoop and shall be taken such that the sample
will accurately represent the aggregate under testing. For this purpose, a small scoop to hold a volume of at
least 1 litre shall be used. Complications such as segregation, collecting samples from moving aggregate
and falling aggregate, conveyor belts etc shall be handled in accordance to BS812 (1989) part 102 clause 5.
On completion of the sampling, make a visual check of the relation of the sample to the material in bulk.

Preparation

Washing and sieving – preferred method for aggregate for aggregates which may contain clay or
other materials likely to cause agglomeration of particles.

Wet both sides of a 75μm test sieve, reserved for use in this test only, and fit a nesting guard sieve
(e.g. 1.18 mm) on top. Mount the sieves in such a way that the suspension passing the test sieve can be run
to waste or, when required, collected in a suitable vessel.

Place the weighed oven dried test portion in a container and add sufficient water to half fill the
container. Agitate the contents so that particles smaller than 75μm are completely separated from coarser
particles. Soaking or continued agitation or, in the case of large particles, brushing may be required to
achieve complete separation.

Pour the suspension of fine solids on to the guarded 75μm test sieve. The suspension passing the
test sieve may be run to waste unless it is required for other purposes. Continue washing the coarse
residue until the water passing the test sieve is clear and then wash all the residues from the container and
sieve(s) into the tray. Remove excess free water by careful decantation through the test sieve, avoiding
transfer of solids and dry the residue in the oven at 105 ± 5 °C until constant mass is achieved. Cool and
record mass.

Avoid excess water flows which may damage or flood the sieves. If some transfer of solids does
occur wash them back into the tray and repeat the operation. Fine sieves are fragile and the integrity of the
mesh should be checked frequently It involves preliminary separation by washing through a fine sieve
before determining particle size distribution by dry sieving.

Dry sieving - This is an alternative method which may be used for coarse and fine aggregates free
from particles which cause agglomeration.

Nest the clean and dry sieves on a fitting receiver in order of increasing aperture size from bottom
to top. Place the dried residue on the top coarsest sieve and cover with a fitting lid. Either by hand or using
the mechanical sieve shaker, shake the sieves for a sufficient time to separate the test sample into the size
fractions determined by the sieve apertures used.

A sample of minimum mass 2kg shall be obtained for nominal size 20mm aggregate by sample
reduction using a sample divider (preferably a riffle box) which has channels of width of not less than 1.5
times the largest aggregate particle and shall be made to saturated surface dry state. As an alternative to
this is quartering which is described in BS812 (1989) part 102 clause 6.2. Separate the test portion on an
appropriate sieve. Weigh the retained and passing fractions to determine the proportion of each present.
Determine the particle size distribution of each fraction separately, reducing where necessary by
quartering or by means of a sample divider if the mass on a sieve exceeds the amount given in the table
below.
 Dry the test portions by heating at a temperature of 105 ± 5 °C to achieve a dry mass which is
constant to within 0.1 %, allow it to cool and measure its mass.

Determine the particle size distribution of the original sample by combining the results for each
fraction in the proportions present.

BS test sieve nominal Maximum mass/g

aperture size 450mm diameter sieve 300mm diameter sieve 200mm diameter sieve
50.0 14000 5000
37.5 10000 4000
20.0 6000 2500
14.0 4000 2000
10.0 3000 1500
5.0 1500 750 350
2.36 450 200

Plot the PSD on the graph which has its X axis in logarithmic scale.

REQUIREMENT

Sieve size/mm Overall limits

50.0 100
37.5 100
20.0 90 to 100
14.0 40 to 80
10.0 30 to 60
5.0 0 to 10
2.36 0
 LIGHTWEIGHT PEICES
AIM

To determine the percentage of lightweight particles in coarse aggregate using test methods stated
in ASTM C 123. This test method is used to determine conformance with provisions of Specification C33
pertaining to the amount of lightweight material in fine and coarse aggregates. A heavy liquid with a
specific gravity of 2.0 is used to separate particles which may be classified as coal or lignite. Heavier liquids
are to be used to check the percentages of other lightweight particles such as chert and shale having a
specific gravity less than 2.40.

APPARATUS

 Sampling tube (300mm by 2000mm minimum)

 Ventilated oven maintained at 105 ± 5 °C
 Electronic balance of adequate capacity accurate to at least 0.1% of the mass of test sample
 Absorbent cloth
 Containers
 Skimmer - A piece of 300μm sieve cloth
 Sieves - 300μm and 4.75mm
 Specific Gravity Measurement —A hydrometer conforming to the physical requirement
sections for individual hydrometers of Specification E 100, or a suitable combination of
graduated glassware and balance capable of measuring the liquid specific gravity within ± 0.01

TEST PROCEDURE

Sampling

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 coarse aggregate,
the outer layer, which may have become segregated, should be removed and the sample taken from the
material beneath.

For coarse aggregate in transportation units, sampling tubes may be inserted into the pile at random
locations to extract a minimum of five increments of material to form the sample in the same way as done
in a stockpile.

The minimum sample size for 19.0mm and 25.0mm aggregates shall be 25kg and 50kg respectively.

Preparation

The minimum size of the test specimen shall be as in the table below and the sample size should be
reduced using the applicable procedures in Practice C 702.

Maximum nominal size of

Minimum mass of sample/g
aggregate/mm
19.0 3000
37.5 5000

If the nominal maximum size of the aggregate to be tested is not listed above, the next larger size
shall be used to determine sample size.
 Allow the dried test specimen of coarse aggregate to cool to room temperature and then sieve over
a 4.75mm sieve until less than 1 % of the retained material passes the sieve in 1 min of continuous sieving.
Determine the mass of the material coarser than the 300μm sieve to the nearest 0.1 g, and bring this
material to a saturated-surface-dry condition by removing the test sample from the water and rolling it in a
large absorbent cloth until all visible films of water are removed. Wipe the larger particles individually. A
moving stream of air is permitted to assist in the drying operation. Take care to avoid evaporation of water
from aggregate pores during the surface-drying operation.

Then introduce it into the heavy liquidα in a suitable container. The volume of liquid shall be at least
three times the absolute volume of the aggregate. Pour the liquid, including the floating particles, into a
second container, passing it through the skimmer, taking care that only the floating particles are poured off
with the liquid and that none of the fine aggregate that sinks are decanted onto the skimmer. Return to the
first container the liquid that has been collected in the second container and, after further agitation of the
sample by stirring, repeat the decanting process just described until the specimen is free of floating
particles. Wash the decanted particles contained on the skimmer in an appropriate solvent to remove the
heavy liquid. Alcohol is appropriate for 1,1,2,2-tetrabromoethane and water for the zinc-chloride and zinc-
bromide solutions.

After the decanted particles have been washed, allow them to dry. Brush the dry decanted particles
from the skimmer onto the balance pan and determine the mass to the nearest 1 g. If more precise
determination is required, the decanted particles shall be dried to constant mass at 110 ± 5°C to determine
the value of W1 used for the calculation to determine percentage light weight pieces.

Drying should shall take place in the hood or out-of-doors if other than zinc chloride or zinc bromide
is used. An oven or hot plate may is permitted to be used to accelerate the drying providing that it is done
in the hood or that the oven is forced-air ventilated to the outside of the building and that a temperature
of 115°C is not exceeded.

Calculation
𝑊1
𝐿 = 100 × ( )
𝑊2
𝐿 − 𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑔𝑒 𝑏𝑦 𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑙𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡𝑤𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑙𝑒𝑠
𝑊1 − 𝑑𝑟𝑦 𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑙𝑒𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑓𝑙𝑜𝑎𝑡
𝑊2 − 𝑑𝑟𝑦 𝑚𝑎𝑠𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑜𝑓 𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑖𝑚𝑒𝑛 𝑐𝑜𝑎𝑟𝑠𝑒𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑛 300𝜇𝑚
α - Heavy liquid shall consist of one of the following:

 A solution of zinc chloride in water (for a specific gravity up to about 2.0).

 A mixture of kerosene with 1,1,2,2-tetrabromoethane, proportioned to produce desired
specific gravities. (1,1,2,2-tetrabromoethane has a specific gravity of about 2.95).
 A solution of zinc bromide in water (for a specific gravity up to about 2.4).
REQUIREMENT

Where

(S) Severe Weathering Region—A cold climate where concrete is exposed to deicing chemicals or other
aggressive agents, or where concrete may become saturated by continued contact with moisture or free
water prior to repeated freezing and thawing.

(M) Moderate Weathering Region—A climate where occasional freezing is expected, but where concrete in
outdoor service will not be continually exposed to freezing and thawing in the presence of moisture or to
deicing chemicals.

(N) Negligible Weathering Region—A climate where concrete is rarely exposed to freezing in the presence
of moisture.
 ORGANIC IMPURITIES
AIM

APPARATUS

REAGENTS

TEST PROCEDURE

REQUIREMENT
 WATER ABSORPTION
AIM

To determine the water absorption percentage for coarse aggregate using test methods stated in
ASTM C 127

APPARATUS

 Sampling tube (300mm by 2000mm minimum)

 Ventilated oven maintained at 105 ± 5 °C
 Electronic balance of adequate capacity accurate to at least 0.1% of the mass of test sample
 Absorbent cloth
 Container with water
 Metal trays

TEST PROCEDURE

Sampling

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 coarse aggregate,
the outer layer, which may have become segregated, should be removed and the sample taken from the
material beneath.

For coarse aggregate in transportation units, sampling tubes may be inserted into the pile at random
locations to extract a minimum of five increments of material to form the sample in the same way as done
in a stockpile.

The minimum sample size for 19.0mm and 25.0mm aggregates shall be 25kg and 50kg respectively.

Preparation

The minimum mass of the test sample for 19.0mm and 25.0mm aggregate is 3kg and 4kg
respectively. The sample size should be reduced using the applicable procedures in Practice C 702.

Record mass of container to be used to measure the mass of aggregate (M1).

Dry the test sample to constant weight mass at a temperature of 110 ± 5°C in the container, and
measure the total mass of the contents (M2).

Cool in air at room temperature for 1 to 3 h for test samples of 37.5 mm nominal maximum size, or
longer for larger sizes until the aggregate has cooled to a temperature that is comfortable to handle
(approximately 50°C). Subsequently immerse the aggregate in water at room temperature for a period of
24 ± 4 h.

Remove the test sample from the water and roll it in a large absorbent cloth until all visible films of
water are removed. Wipe the larger particles individually. A moving stream of air is permitted to assist in
the drying operation. Take care to avoid evaporation of water from aggregate pores during the surface-
drying operation. Determine the mass of the test sample (M3).

Calculation
M3 − M2
Water absorption % = 100 ×
M2 − M1
REQUIREMENT

TO BE FOUND
 SPECIFIC GRAVITY
AIM

To determine the bulk specific gravity for fine aggregate using test methods stated in ASTM C 127

APPARATUS

 Sampling tube (300mm by 2000mm minimum)

 Ventilated oven maintained at 105 ± 5 °C
 Electronic balance of adequate capacity accurate to at least 0.1% of the mass of test sample
 Absorbent cloth
 Container with water
 Pycnometer

TEST PROCEDURE

Sampling

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.

For coarse aggregate in transportation units, sampling tubes may be inserted into the pile at random
locations to extract a minimum of five increments of material to form the sample in the same way as done
in a stockpile.

The minimum sample size for 19.0mm and 25.0mm aggregates shall be 25kg and 50kg respectively.

Preparation

The minimum mass of the test sample for 19.0mm and 25.0mm aggregate is 3kg and 4kg
respectively. The sample size should be reduced using the applicable procedures in Practice C 702.

Record mass of container to be used to measure the mass of aggregate (M1). Fill the pycnometer to
calibrated capacity and measure the total mass of pycnometer and water (B)

Dry the test sample to constant weight mass at a temperature of 110 ± 5°C in the container, and
measure the total mass of the contents (M2). Hence the mass of oven dry aggregate will be (M2-M1 = A)

Cool in air at room temperature for 1 to 3 h for test samples of 37.5 mm nominal maximum size, or
longer for larger sizes until the aggregate has cooled to a temperature that is comfortable to handle
(approximately 50°C). Subsequently immerse the aggregate in water at room temperature for a period of
24 ± 4 h.

Remove the test sample from the water and roll it in a large absorbent cloth until all visible films of
water are removed. Wipe the larger particles individually. A moving stream of air is permitted to assist in
the drying operation. Take care to avoid evaporation of water from aggregate pores during the surface-
drying operation. Determine the mass of the test sample at SSD state (S).

Partially fill the pycnometer with water. Immediately introduce into the pycnometer 500 ±10 g of
saturated surface-dry fine aggregate prepared & fill with additional water to approximately 90 % of
capacity. Manually roll, invert, and agitate the pycnometer, or mechanically agitate the pycnometer, to
eliminate all air bubbles. Accomplish mechanical agitation by external vibration of the pycnometer in a
manner that will not degrade the sample. A level of agitation adjusted to just set individual particles in
motion is sufficient to promote de-airing without deg radation. Adjust the temperature of the pycnometer
and its contents to 23±1.7°C (73.4±3°F), if necessary, by immersion in circulating water, and bring the water
level in the pycnometer to its calibrated capacity. Determine the total mass of the pycnometer, specimen,
and water (C).

Calculation
𝐴
𝐵𝑢𝑙𝑘 𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑖𝑓𝑖𝑐 𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑣𝑖𝑡𝑦 =
𝐵+𝑆−𝐶
Where

A - weight of oven-dry specimen in air/g

B - weight of pycnometer filled with water/g calculated by 𝐵 = 0.9975 × 𝑉 + 𝑊

Where V – volume of pycnometer/mL and W – weight of empty pycnometer/g

C - weight of pycnometer with specimen and water to calibration mark/g

S - weight of the saturated surface-dry specimen/g

REQUIREMENT

TO BE FOUND