DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING
BCE BHAGALPUR
Transportation Engineering Laboratory
Bachelor of Technology
Contents
Sl. No. Experiments Page No. Learning Outcome
Tests on aggregate
1 Aggregate crushing value test 1-3 Understating on
various tests for
2 Aggregate impact value test
characterization of
4-7
aggregate for road
construction.
3 Los Angeles abrasion test 8-11
4 Aggregate shape test 12-16
Tests on bitumen
5 Penetration test of bitumen 17-18 Understating on
various tests for
6 Softening point test of bituminous material
characterization of
19-20
bitumen for road
construction.
7 (a) Flash and fire point test of bituminous material 21-22
(b) Viscosity test of bituminous material 23-24
8 Ductility test of bitumen 25-26
Tests on bituminous mix
9 (a) Determination of binder content of asphalt mix 27-28 Understating on
(b) Determination of stripping value of aggregate various tests for
29-30 evaluation of
properties of
prepared bitumen
mix.
10 Marshall stability test of bituminous mix 31-33 Understanding on
the tests carried out
for performance
evaluation of
constructed
pavement
General instructions on safety and Do's and Don'ts
Before starting laboratory work follow all written and verbal instructions carefully. If you do not
understand a direction or part of a procedure, ASK YOUR CONCERN TEACHER BEFORE
PROCEEDING WITH THE ACTIVITY.
Before use equipment must be read carefully Labels and instructions. Set up and use the
equipment as directed by your teacher.
Any failure / break-down of equipment must be reported to the teacher.
Observe good housekeeping practices. Replace the materials in proper place after work to keep
the lab area tidy.
Maintain silence and clean environment in the lab
Protect yourself from getting electric shock.
Experiment No: 01
AGGREGATE CRUSHING VALUE TEST
Objective: To determine crushing strength of given aggregate sample
IS Standards used: IS-2386 Part- 4 and BS: 2009
Need and scope:
This is one of the major mechanical properties required in a road stone. The test evaluates the
ability of the aggregates used in road construction to withstand the stresses induced by moving
vehicles in the form of crushing. With this, the aggregates should also provide sufficient resistance
to crushing under the roller during construction and under rigid tyre rims of heavily loaded animal
drawn vehicles. The crushing strength or aggregate crushing value of a given road aggregate is
found out as per IS-2386 Part- 4. The aggregate crushing value provides a relative measure of
resistance to crushing under a gradually applied compressive load. To achieve a high quality of
pavement aggregate possessing low aggregate crushing value should be preferred. The aggregate
crushing value of the coarse aggregates used for cement concrete pavement at surface should not
exceed 30% and aggregates used for concrete other than for wearing surfaces, shall not exceed
45% as specified by Indian Standard (IS) and Indian Road Congress (IRC).
Apparatus:
1. A steel cylinder of internal diameter 15.2 cm (Steel cylinder with open ends).
2. A square base plate, plunger having a piston diameter of 15 cm.
3. A cylindrical measure of internal diameter of 11.5 cm and height 18 cm.
4. Steel tamping rod having diameter of 1.6 cm length 45 to 60 cm.
5. Balance of capacity 3 kg with accuracy up to 1 gm.
6. Compression testing machines capable of applying load of 40 tonnes at a loading rate of
4 tonnes per minute.
Experimental Procedure:
1. The aggregate in surface-dry condition before testing and passing 12.5 mm sieve and
retained on 10 mm sieve is selected.
2. The cylindrical measure is filled by the test sample of the aggregate in three layers of
approximately equal depth, each layer being tamped 25 times by the rounded end of the
tamping rod.
1
3. After the third layer is tamped, the aggregates at the top of the cylindrical measure are
levelled off by using the tamping rod as a straight edge. Then the test sample is weighed.
Let that be W1 gm.
4. Then the cylinder of test apparatus is kept on the base plate and one third of the
sample from cylindrical measure is transferred into cylinder and tamped 25 times by
rounded end of the tamping rod.
5. Similarly aggregate in three layers of approximately equal depth, each layer being
tamped 25 times by rounded end of the tamping rod.
6. Then the cylinder with test sample and plunger in position is placed on compression
testing machine.
7. Load is then applied through the plunger at a uniform rate of 4 tonnes per minute until
the total load is 40 tonnes and the load are released.
8. Aggregates including the crushed position are removed from the cylinder and sieved on
a 2.36mm IS sieve and material, which passes this sieve, is collected and weighed. Let
this be W2 gm.
9. The above step is repeated with second sample of the same aggregate.
10. Then the aggregate crushing value is defined as the ratio of weight of fines passing the
specified IS sieve (W2 gm) to the total weight of the sample (W1 gm)
11. Two tests are done and the average value to the nearest whole number is reported as
aggregate abrasion value.
Calculations:
Aggregate crushing value (%) = (W2/W1)×100
Observations and Calculation:
Total weight of Weight of fines
Aggregate
Sample dry aggregate passing through
Crushing Value Mean Value
No. sample 2.36mm IS Sieve
(%)
(W1 gm). (W2 gm)
General remarks:
2
Questions
1. What is aggregate crushing value? How would you express it?
2. Aggregate crushing value of material A is 40 and that of B is 25. Which one is better
and why?
3. What are the recommended maximum values of aggregate crushing value for the
aggregates to be used in base and surface courses of cement concrete?
4. What is the specific standard size of aggregates? How the aggregate crushing value
of non-standard size aggregate is evaluated?
3
Experiment No: 02
AGGREGATE IMPACT VALUE TEST
Objective: To estimate the aggregate impact value of given sample.
IS Standards used: IS: 2386(Part-4)-1963
Need and scope:
The ‘Aggregate Impact Value’ gives a relative measure of the resistance of an aggregate to sudden
shock or impact, which in some aggregates differs from its resistance to a slow compressive load.
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.
Apparatus:
1. Impact Testing Machine: Impact testing machine conforming to IS: 2386 (Part IV) -
1963, as shown in Figure 1.
2. Metal Cylinder: cylindrical metal measure of 75 mm dia. and 50 mm depth.
3. Test Sieves: IS Sieves of the sizes and apertures appropriate to the specification of the
material to be tested, (Sieves of sizes–12.5 mm, 10 mm and 2.36 mm).
4. A tamping rod of 10mm circular cross section and 230mm length, rounded at one end
and Oven.
5. Balance: A balance of capacity not less than 500 g, readable and accurate to 0.1g.
6. Oven: A well-ventilated oven thermostatically controlled to maintain a temperature of
100 to 110ºC.
4
Figure 1: Impact Test Apparatus
Preparation of test sample:
1. The test sample shall consist of aggregate the whole of which passes a 12.5 mm IS Sieve
and is retained on a 10 mm IS Sieve. The aggregate comprising the test sample shall be
dried in an oven for a period of four hours at a temperature of 100 to 110 ºC andcooled.
2. The measure shall be filled about one-third full with the aggregate and tamped with 25
strokes of the rounded end of the tamping rod.
3. Further similar quantity of aggregate shall be added and a further tamping of 25 strokes
given. The measure shall finally be filled to overflowing, tamped 25 times and the surplus
aggregate struck off, using the tamping rod as a straight-edge.
4. The net weight of aggregate in the measure shall be determined to the nearest gram
(Weight A) and this weight of aggregate shall be used for the duplicate test on the same
material.
5
Experimental Procedure:
1. The impact machine shall rest without wedging or packing upon the level plate, block or
floor, so that it is rigid and the hammer guide columns are vertical.
2. The cup shall be fixed firmly in position on the base of the machine and the whole of the
test sample placed in it and compacted by a single tamping of 25 strokes of the tamping
rod.
3. The hammer shall be raised until its lower face is 380 mm above the upper surface of the
aggregate in the cup, and allowed to fall freely on to the aggregate. The test sample shall
be subjected to a total of 15 such blows each being delivered at an interval of not less than
one second.
4. The crushed aggregate shall then be removed from the cup and the whole of it sieved on
the 2.36 mm IS Sieve until no further significant amount passes in one minute.
5. The fraction passing the sieve shall be weighed to an accuracy of 0.1 g (Weight B). The
fraction retained on the sieve shall also be weighed (Weight C) and, if the total weight
(B+C) is less than the initial weight (Weight A) by more than one gram, the result shall be
discarded and a fresh test made.
6. Two tests shall be conducted.
Calculations:
The ratio of the weight of fines formed to the total sample weight in each test shall be
expressed as a percentage, the result being recorded to the first decimal place:
Aggregate impact value = 𝐵 × 100
𝐴
Where, B = weight of fraction passing 2.36 mm IS Sieve, and
A = weight of oven-dried sample
Observations and Calculation:
Aggregate Avg. Aggregate
Sample No. Weight A Weight B
impact value impact value
1
2
The mean of the two results shall be reported to the nearest whole number as the aggregate
impact value of the tested material.
Average Aggregate impact value of aggregate sample 1 (%) =
6
Average Aggregate impact value of aggregate sample 2 (%) =
General remarks:
Questions
1. How aggregate impact value is expressed?
2. How does toughness differ from compressive strength?
3. Aggregate impact value material A is 20 and that of B is 45. Which one is better
surface course and why?
4. Which test simulates the field conditions better, aggregate crushing value test or
impact value test?
7
Experiment No: 03
LOS ANGELES ABRASION TEST
Objective: To determine the abrasion value of given aggregate sample by conducting Los -
Angeles abrasion test.
IS Standards used: I.S.-2386 part-IV, ASTM C131.
Need and Scope:
Abrasion is a measure of resistance to wear or hardness. It is an essentially property for road
aggregates especially when used in wearing coarse. Due to the movements of traffic, the road
stones used in the surfacing course are subjected to wearing actions at the top. When traffic moves
on the road the soil particle (sand) which comes between the wheel and road surface causes
abrasion on the road stone. The abrasion test on aggregate is found as per I.S.-2386 part- IV.
Abrasion tests on aggregates are generally carried out by any one of the following methods-
(i). Los Angeles abrasion test. (ii). Deval abrasion test. (iii). Dorry abrasion test
Los Angeles Abrasion Test: -
The principle of Los Angeles abrasion test is to find the percentage wear due to the relative rubbing
action between the aggregates and steel balls used as abrasive charge pounding action ofthese balls
also exist while conducting the test. Maximum Allowable Los Angeles Abrasion Values of
Aggregates in Different types of pavement layers as per Indian Road Congress (IRC) are: -
1. For sub-base course a value of 60%. For base course such as WBM, Bituminous
Macadam (B.M.), Built – Up spray grout base course and etc. value of 50%.
2. For surface course such as WBM, BM, Bituminous Penetration Macadam, Built-Up
spray grout binder course and etc. a value of 40%.
3. If aggregates are used in surface course as bituminous carpet, bituminous surface
dressing, single or two coats, cement concrete surface course and etc. a value of 35%.
4. If aggregates are used for bituminous concrete, Cement concrete pavement as surface
coarse than aggregate abrasion value of 30% maximum.
8
Apparatus:
1. Los Angeles machine with inside diameter 70cm and inside length of 50cm.
2. Abrasive charges having diameter 4.8cm and weight 390 to 445 gm.
3. I.S Sieve with 1.7 mm opening.
4. Weighting Balance of 0.1gm accuracy.
5. Metallic Tray
Experimental Procedure:
1. Clean and dry aggregate sample confirming to one of the grading A to G is used for the
test. (Refer Table 1).
2. Aggregates weighing 5 kg for grading A, B, C or D and 10 kg for grading E, F or G may
be taken as test specimen and placed in the cylinder.
3. The abrasive charge is also chosen in accordance with table no.1 and placed in the
cylinder of the machine, and cover is fixed to make dust tight.
4. The machine is rotated at a speed of 30 to 33 revolutions per minute.
5. The machine is rotated for 500 revolutions for grading A, B, C and D, for grading E, F
and G, it shall be rotated for 1000 revolutions.
6. After the desired number of revolutions, the machine is stopped and the material is
discharged from the machine taking care to take out entire stone dust.
7. Using a sieve of size larger than 1.70 mm I.S sieve, the material is first separated into
two parts and the finer position is taken out and sieved further on a 1.7 mm I.S sieve.
8. Let the original weight of aggregate be W1 gm, weight of aggregate retained on 1.70 mm
I.S sieve after the test be W2 gm.
Los Angeles abrasion value % =
9
Weight in grams of each test sample in the size range, mm (Passing and retained on square holes) Abrasive Charge
Grading
80-63 63-40 50-40 40-25 25-20 20-12.5 12.5-10 10-6.3 6.3-4.75 4.75-2.36 No. of Weight of
spheres charge
A 1250 1250 1250 1250 12 5000+/-25
B 2500 2500 11 4584+/-25
C 2500 2500 8 3330+/-20
D 5000 6 2500+/-15
E 2500 2500 5000 12 5000+/-25
F 5000 5000 12 5000+/-25
G 5000 5000 12 5000+/-25
Table 1. Aggregate Gradation and corresponding abrasive charge
Observations and Calculation:
[Link] Details of sample Observations
1 2
1 Weight of specimen= W1 g
2 Weight of specimen retain on 1.7 mm
IS Sieve after abrasion test = W2 g
3 Los Angeles abrasion value
4 Mean value
General remarks:
10
Questions
1. How does impact occur in Los Angeles abrasion test?
2. How is Los Angeles abrasion value expressed?
3. Sample A and B have Los Angeles abrasion value is 15 and 30 respectively which
sample is harder?
4. An aggregate sample is found to be having Los Angeles abrasion value of 37. For which
type of road construction it may be used?
11
Experiment No: 04
AGGREGATE SHAPE TEST
Objective:
To determine the combined flakiness and elongation Index of the given coarse aggregate sample
IS Standards used: IS: 2386(Part-I)-1963 (Reaffirmed 2007)
Need and scope:
Definition of Combined Flakiness and Elongation Index: It is the sum of the flakiness index of a
given aggregate sample and the elongation index of the non-flaky particles of the sample
1. Flakiness Index: The flakiness index of an aggregate sample is the percentage by weight
of particles in it with least dimension (thickness) less than three-fifth of their mean
dimension. The flakiness index of an aggregate sample is determined by sieving the sample
of aggregates through specified sieves to separate the aggregates into fractions of different
sizes. Sizes of the sieves used for this purpose are :- 63 mm, 50 mm, 40 mm,
31.5 mm, 25 mm, 20 mm, 16 mm, 12.5 mm, 10 mm and 6.3 mm. The test is not
applicable to material passing a 6.30 mm test sieve and also for aggregates retained on 63
mm sieve.
2. Elongation Index : The Elongation Index of aggregate is the percentage by weight of
particles, whose greatest dimension (length) is greater than one and four-fifth times (1.8)
their mean dimension. The elongation index of an aggregate sample is determined by
sieving the sample of aggregates through specified sieves to separate the aggregates into
fractions of different sizes. Sizes of the sieves used for this purpose are :- 50 mm, 40 mm,
31.5 mm, 25 mm, 20 mm, 16 mm, 12.5 mm, 10 mm and 6.3 mm. The test is not
applicable to material passing a 6.30 mm test sieve and for aggregates retained on 50 mm
sieve.
It may be noted that for determining the combined flakiness and elongation index, elongation test
is conducted after removing the flaky particles. For regular elongation test, the complete sample
will be evaluated.
Equipments:
12
1. Weighing Balance: A Balance of suitable capacity accurate to 0.1% of the mass of the
weight of the test sample.
2. Elongation and Flakiness index gauges
3. Test Sieves: IS Sieves of the sizes and apertures appropriate to the specification of the
material to be tested with square holes with appropriate sizes of lids and receivers
Experimental procedure:
1) For obtaining the combined flakiness and elongation index, flakiness test is conducted first
and the non-flaky particles of the sample will be used for conducting elongation index
2) Sieve analysis is carried out on the sample of aggregate using sieves listed above(1)
3) A minimum of 200 pieces is taken for each fraction and weighed.
4) Weigh each of the individual size fractions retained on the test sieves, other than the 63.0
mm test sieve, and store them in separate trays with their sizes marked on the trays.
5) The sum of the weights of each fraction of aggregates gives the weight of the aggregate
sample. (Say, W1).
6) The particles belonging to a particular size group (ex: passing through 50 mm and retained
on 40 mm) are passed through the corresponding slot (for 50 mm – 40 mm fraction, the width
of the slot is 27 mm) of the thickness gauge (flakiness index gauge) shown in Figure 1.
7) The particles passing through the specified slot of the thickness gauge are “flaky” and will
be weighed to an accuracy of at least 0.1% of the weight of the test sample.
8) The sum of the weights of aggregates passing through different slots of the gauge is W2.
9) Flakiness index (%) = 100*(W2/W1)
10) For the purpose of determining combined flakiness and elongation index value, Elongation
index test will be conducted on the non-flaky aggregates identified in flakiness test.
Aggregates retained on 50 mm sieve will be discarded for this test. Let the total weight of
aggregates considered for elongation test be W3.
11) Effort will be made to pass the particles belonging to a particular size group (ex: passing
through 50 mm and retained on 40 mm), when held length-wise through appropriate gaps
(for 50 mm – 40 mm fraction, the gap is 81 mm) as shown in Figure 2. The aggregates that
do not pass are elongated. These particles are weighed.
13
12) The sum of the weights of aggregates not passing through different gaps of the gauge is
W4. Elongation index (%) = 100*(W4/W3)
13) Combined flakiness and elongation index will be the sum of the two indices (determined as
described in the preceding steps)
Figure 1: Thickness gauge
Figure 2: Length gauge
Observations and Calculation:
Table 1. Flakiness Index
Size of Aggregates Weight of
Thickness Flakiness
Weight of aggregate
gauge slot Index of each
Passing Retained on aggregate of fraction
used (0.6* fraction of
through sieve sieve of size this size passing
average aggregate
of size (mm) (mm) group (gm) through the
size) (mm) (%)
slot (gm)
63 50
50 40
40 31.5
31.5 25
14
25 20
20 16
16 12.5
12.5 10
10 6.3
FI= (W2/W1)*100 W1 W2 FI=……. %
Table 2. Elongation Index
Size of Aggregates Weight of
Length Elongation
Weight of aggregate
gauge gap Index of each
Passing Retained on aggregate of fraction
used (1.8* fraction of
through sieve sieve of size this size retained on
average aggregate
of size (mm) (mm) group (gm) the gauge
size) (mm) (%)
(gm)
50 40
40 25
25 20
20 16
16 12.5
12.5 10
10 6.3
EI= (W4/W3)*100 W3 W4 EI=……. %
Calculations:
Flakiness index (%), x = 100*(W2/W1) =
Elongation index of non-flaky particles (%), y = 100*(W4/W3) =
Combined flakiness and elongation index (%) = x + y =
General remarks:
15
Questions
1. What is the significance of shape of aggregate in pavement construction?
2. Discuss the effects of flaky and elongated aggregate in road construction.
3. Discuss the advantages and limitations of rounded and angular aggregates in different
types of pavements.
16
Experiment No: 05
PENETRATION TEST OF BITUMEN
Objective: To determine the penetration value of the given bitumen sample
IS Standards used: IS 1203 – 1978
Need and Scope:
Various types and grades of bituminous materials are available for use in road making. One of the
ways of grading bitumen is in terms of its penetration value. Penetration grading system of bitumen
has been replaced in India by viscosity grading. However, penetration test remains to be an
important test which is retained in many binder specifications. The penetration test determinesthe
consistency of bituminous binders for the purpose of grading them and for the purpose of giving
an indication of the expected performance. Penetration is determined by measuring the depth (in
units of one tenth of a millimetre) to which a standard needle with the needle assembly weighing
100 gm will penetrate vertically at 25 ˚C standard temperature in 5 seconds of standard duration.
The softer the bitumen, the larger will be the penetration. The penetration grades of bitumen are
generally designated as 80/100, 60/70, or 30/40 grade bitumen. 80/100 bitumen indicates that the
penetration value of binder ranges from 8 mm to 10 mm.
Apparatus:
1. Penetrometer
2. Sample cup
3. Water bath for maintaining a temperature of 25˚C.
4. Thermometer
5. Specified needle
6. Stop watch
Experimental Procedure:
1. Pour the bitumen sample into the container of 35 mm depth.
2. Cool in atmosphere at a temperature between 15-30 ˚C for 60 to 90 minutes.
3. Place the container in the water bath maintained at a temperature of 25 ˚C for 60 to 90
minutes.
17
4. Place the sample under the penetrometer and adjust the screw so that the tip of needle
just touches the surface of the bitumen sample.
5. Take the initial reading and press the knob for 5 seconds. Take the final reading.
6. Make at least three such measurements.
Observations and Calculation:
Sample A Sample B
Observations Initial Final Initial Final
Penetration Penetration
Reading Reading Reading Reading
1
2
3
4
5
6
Average For Sample A For Sample B
The average penetration value of Sample A =
The average penetration value of Sample B =
General remarks:
Questions
1. Which property of bitumen is related to penetration value?
2. The penetration value of binder is 65; what is the distance in mm which the needle has
penetrated through?
3. What does an 80/100 grade bitumen indicate?
4. Which bitumen grades are commonly used in warmer regions and why?
18
Experiment No: 06
SOFTENING POINT TEST OF BITUMINOUS MATERIAL
Objective: To determine the softening point of the given bitumen sample.
IS Standards used: IS 1203 – 1978
Need and Scope:
The Softening Point of bitumen or tar is the temperature at which the substance attains particular
degree of softening. As per IS: 334-2002, it is the temperature in ºC at which a standard ball passes
through a sample of bitumen in a mould and falls through a height of 2.5 cm, when heated under
water or glycerine at specified conditions of test. The binder should have sufficient fluidity before
its applications in road uses. The determination of softening point helps to know the temperature
up to which a bituminous binder should be heated for various road use applications. Softening
point is determined by ring and ball apparatus.
Apparatus:
1. Ring & Ball apparatus
2. Water bath
3. Stirrer
4. Thermometer
5. Beaker
6. Heating device etc.
Experimental Procedure:
1. Preparation of test sample: Heat the material to a temperature between 75-100 ° C above its
softening point; stir until it is completely fluid and free from air bubbles and water. If
necessary, filter it through IS sieve 30. Place the rings on a metal plate which has been coated
with a mixture of equal parts of glycerine and dextrin. After cooling for 30 minutes in air,
level the material in the ring by removing the excess material with a warmed, sharp knife.
2. Assemble the apparatus with the rings, thermometer and ball guides in position.
3. Fill the bath with distilled water to a height of 50mm above the upper surface of the rings.
The starting temperature should be 5 °C.
19
4. Apply heat to the bath and stir the liquid so that the temperature rises at a uniform rate of 5
± 0.5 °C per minute.
5. As the temperature increases the bituminous material softens and the balls sink through
the rings carrying a portion of the material with it.
6. Note the temperature when any of the steel balls with bituminous coating touches the
bottom plate.
Observations and Calculation:
Bitumen Identification of Temperature (0C)
Sample Sample (Grade of
bitumen) Ball 1 Ball 2 Average
A
B
The Softening Point Temperatures of the given samples of Bitumen are: -
(a) Sample A =
(b) Sample B =
General remarks:
Questions
1. What is the importance of determination of softening point in road construction
operations?
2. What are the criteria of selection of medium used for heating the specimen?
3. What are the factors, which may affect the ring and ball test results?
4. What will happen to softening point if:
a. Aluminium balls are used in place of steel balls?
b. The distance between the rings and the bottom plate is increased?
20
Experiment No: 07 (A)
FLASH AND FIRE POINT TEST OF BITUMINOUS MATERIAL
Objective: To determine the flash and fire point of given bitumen samples by Pensky-Martens
closed tester.
IS Standards used: IS: 1209-1978
Need and Scope:
Bituminous materials leave out volatiles at high temperatures depending upon their grade. These
volatile catch fire causing a flash. This condition is very hazardous, and it is therefore essential
to qualify this temperature for each bitumen grade.
FLASH POINT: the flash point of a material is the lowest temperature at which the vapour
of the substance momentarily takes fire in the form of flash under specified condition of test.
FIRE POINT: The fire point is the lowest temperature at which the material gets ignited and
burns under specified condition of test.
Apparatus:
1. Pensky-Martens closed tester consisting of cup, lid, stirrer, shutter, flame exposure
device.
2. Thermometer (0-350o C) with sensitivity of 0.1o C.
Experimental Procedure:
1. The material is filled in the cup up to a filling mark.
2. The lid is placed to close the cup in a closed system. All accessories including
thermometer of the specified range are suitably fixed.
3. The bitumen sample is then heated. The flame is lit and adjusted in such a way that
the size of a bleed is of 4mm diameter.
4. The heating is done at the rate of 5o C to 6o C per minute.
5. The stirring is done at the rate of approximately 60 revolutions per minute.
6. The test flame is applied at intervals depending upon the expected flash and fire points.
7. First application is made at least 17o C below the actual flash point and then at every
1o C to 3o C.
8. The stirring is discontinued during the application of the test flame.
21
Observations and Calculation:
Sl. No Description Test-01 Test-02 Test-03 Test-04 Mean value
1 Grade of bitumen
2 Rate of heating time (min)
3 Temperature
4 Flash point
5 Fire Point
General remarks:
Questions
4. What is the utility of determination of flash point?
5. Should a good binder possess higher flash point?
6. What are the flash and fire points?
22
Experiment No: 07 (B)
VISCOSITY TEST OF BITUMINOUS MATERIAL
Objective:
To determine the viscosity of given bitumen sample by Tar Viscometer
IS Standards used: IS 1206 – 1978 (Part II)
Need and Scope:
Viscosity is defined as inverse of fluidity. Viscosity thus defines the fluid property of
bituminous material. The degree of fluidity at the application temperature greatly influences the
ability of bituminous material to spread, penetrate into the voids and also coat the aggregates
and hence affects the strength characteristics of the resulting paving mixes.
Apparatus:
Tar Viscometer with 4mm and 10mm orifices – The apparatus consists of main parts like cup,
valve, water bath, sleeves, stirrer, receiver, and thermometer etc.
Experimental Procedure:
(i) The tar cup is properly levelled and water in the bath is heated to the temperature
specified for the test and is maintained throughout the test. Stirring is also continued.
(ii) The sample material is heated at the temperature 200C above the specified test
temperature, and the material is allowed to cool. During this the material is
continuously, stirred.
(iii) When material reaches slightly above test temperature, the same is poured in tar cup,
until the levelling peg on the valve rod is just immersed. In the graduated receiver
(cylinder), 25ml of mineral or one percent by weight solution of soft soap is poured.
The receiver is placed under the orifice.
(iv) When the sample material reaches the specified testing temperature within +/-
0.10C and is maintained for five minutes, the valve is opened.
(v) The stopwatch is started, when cylinder records 25ml. The time is recorded for flow
up to a mark of 75ml (i.e., 50ml of test sample to flow through the orifice).
23
Observations and Calculation:
Sl. No. Description Test - 1 Test - 2 Mean value
1. Specified Test Temp. 0C 60 0C 60 0C
2. Size of Orifice in mm
3. Viscosity in Seconds
The average viscosity value of the given sample of bitumen:
General remarks:
Questions
1. What do you understand by viscosity?
2. How is strength of bituminous road affected by the viscosity of binder?
24
Experiment No: 08
DUCTILITY TEST OF BITUMEN
Objective: To determine the ductility value of the given bitumen sample.
IS Standards used: IS 1203 – 1978
Need and Scope:
In the flexible pavement construction where bitumen binders are used, it is of significance that the
binders form ductile film around the aggregate. The binder material which does not possess
sufficient ductility would crack when flexed or elongated. Ductility is expressed as the distance
in centimetres to which a standard briquette of bitumen can be stretched before the thread breaks.
The test is conducted at 27 º C +/- 0.5 º C at a rate of pull of 50 +/- 2.5 mm per minute.
Apparatus:
1. Ductility machine
2. Briquette mould
3. Knife
Sample Preparation:
1. Apply grease on the glass plate.
2. Arrange the end pieces and side pieces of the briquette mould on a glass plate. Apply
grease on the insides of the side pieces of the mould.
3. Heat the bitumen sample to a pouring consistency and carefully pour into the mould.
Experimental Procedure:
1. Allow the sample to cool in air for about 30 to 40 minutes.
2. Immerse the mould with the plate in a water bath maintained at 27º C for 30 minutes
3. Take out the mould and cut off excess bitumen, if any, with a sharp hot knife.
4. Replace the mould back in water for 85 to 90 minutes, at 27º C
5. With the help of hot knife, remove the side pieces of the mould and separate the sample
from the plate
6. Carefully place the sample in the ductility machine on the plate provided. Fix the ends
of the mould to the plate.
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7. Note the initial reading on the scale provided on the machine. It should be 0 (zero)
8. Start the ductility machine. The sample stretches and a thread is formed in the middle.
The sample stretches at a uniform rate of 50 2.5mm per minute.
9. The thread formed at the middle breaks after some distance. The distance up to which
the sample stretches before the thread breaks is recorded as the ductility value.
Observations and Calculation:
Sample No.
Test Parameter Average (cm)
1 2 3
Ductility (cm)
The average ductility value of the given sample of bitumen = cm.
General remarks:
Questions
1. How is ductility value expressed?
2. How will be the ductility value affected if the test temperature is more than the specified
one?
3. What are the precautions to be taken while finding ductility value?
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Experiment No: 09 (A)
DETERMINATION OF BINDER CONTENT OF ASPHALT MIX
Objective: To determine the binder content in a given bitumen mix by cold solvent extraction
method
IS Standards used: IS 13826-7(1993)
Apparatus:
1. Centrifuge
2. Balance of capacity 500 gram and sensitivity 0.01grams.
3. Thermostatically controlled oven with capacity up to 2500C.
4. Beaker for collecting extracted material.
Experimental Procedure:
1. Take exactly 500 grams of representative sample and place in the bowl of
extraction apparatus (W1).
2. Add benzene to the sample until it is completely submerged.
3. Dry and weigh the filter paper and place it over the bowl of the extraction
apparatus containing the sample (F1).
4. Clamp the cover of the bowl tightly.
5. Place a beaker under the drainpipe to collect the extract
6. Sufficient time (not more than an hour) is allowed for the solvent to disintegrate
the sample before running the centrifuge.
7. Run the centrifuge slowly and then gradually increase the speed to a maximum of
3600 rpm.
8. Maintain the same speed till the solvent ceases to flow from the drainpipe.
9. Run the centrifuge until the bitumen and benzene are drained out completely.
10. Stop the machine, remove the cover and add 200 ml of benzene to the material in the
extraction bowl and the extraction is done in the same process as described above.
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11. Repeat the same process not less than three times till the extraction is clear and not darker
than a light straw colour.
12. Collect the material from the bowl of the extraction machine along with the filter paper
and dry it to constant weight in the oven at a temperature of 1050C to 1100C and cool
to room temperature.
13. Weigh the material (W2) and the filter paper (F2) separately to an accuracy of
0.01grams.
Calculations
Weight of sample taken (W1) =
Weight of sample after extraction (W2) =
Increased weight of filter paper (W3) = F2- F1 =
𝑊 −(𝑊2+𝑊3)
Percentage of binder in the total mix = 1 × 100
𝑊1
General remarks:
Questions
1. What is the criteria for specifying benzene as solvents to be used in the test?
2. How would the road surface be effected in case the test reveals use of
(i) Lesser quantity of bitumen?
(ii) More quantity of bitumen than the optimum quantity?
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Experiment No: 09 (B)
DETERMINATION OF STRIPPING VALUE OF AGGREGATE
Objective:
To determine the stripping value of aggregates used in road construction; ascertain the
suitability of road aggregates for bituminous road construction
IS Standards used: IS 6241-1971
Need and Scope:
This test is conducted to determine the effects of moisture upon adhesion of the bituminous film
to the surface particles of the aggregate. This test is of significant value to ascertain the suitability
of the two materials i.e., bitumen and aggregates, because one particular aggregatemay be
satisfactory with one binder and unsatisfactory with another: and the same being true for the
binders. The specifications of ministry of the transport and shipping recommend the determination
of stripping value by the static immersion method.
Apparatus:
1. Thermostatically controlled water bath
2. Beakers of capacity 500 ml
Experimental Procedure:
1. Obtain the material that passes through 25mm sieve and is retained on 12.5mm sieve.
2. Dry, clean and heat the binder and aggregates to 150 to 175 0C and 120-150 0C
respectively and mix with 5 percent binder by weight of aggregate.
3. After complete coating, allow the mixture to cool at room temperature in a clean dry
beaker.
4. Add distilled water to immerse the coated aggregates.
5. Cover the beaker and keep it undisturbed in a thermostatic water bath at a temperature
of 40 C for a period for 24 hrs.
6. Estimate the extent of stripping by visual examination while the specimen is still under
water and express as the average percent area of aggregate surface uncoated.
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Precautions:
1. The aggregates should be thoroughly dried before mixing the binder.
2. Distilled water should be used for the test.
3. Mix – up of the two separate samples should be uniform.
Observation and calculations:
Sample 1 Sample 2 Sample 3
Percentage of area of
aggregate uncoated by
immersion in water
Average Stripping
value
General remarks:
Questions
1. Two aggregates A and B have stripping value of 20% and 30 % when used with the
same bitumen; which is preferable and why?
2. How will the stripping value be effected in case the aggregate are not fully dried?
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Experiment No: 10
MARSHALL STABILITY TEST OF BITUMINOUS MIX
Objective: To determine the Marshall stability and flow of bitumen mix.
IS Standards used: ASTM D6927
Need and Scope:
The original Marshall method is applicable only to hot-mix asphalt paving mixtures containing
aggregates with maximum sizes of 25 mm or less. This method covers the measurement of the
resistance to plastic flow of cylindrical specimens of bituminous paving mixture loaded on the
lateral surface by means of the Marshall apparatus.
Apparatus:
1. Specimen mould assembly
2. Specimen extractor
3. Compaction hammer
4. Compaction pedestal
5. Breaking head
6. Loading machine
7. Flow meter
8. Oven or hot plates
9. Mixing apparatus
10. Thermostatically control water bath
11. Thermometers of range 0-360 oC with 1 oC sensitivity
Experimental Procedure:
In the Marshall method each compacted test specimen is subjected to the following
tests and analysed in the order listed below.
i. Bulk density determination
ii. Stability and flow test
iii. Density and voids analysis
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Preparation of test specimens:
The coarse aggregates, fine aggregates and the filler material should be proportioned and mixed
in such a way that final mix after blending has the gradation with in the specified range. The
aggregates and the filler are mixed together in the desired proportion as per the design
requirements and fulfilling the specified gradation. The required quantity of the mix is taken so
as to produce a compacted bituminous mix specimen of thickness 63.5 mm, approximately.
Preparation of mixtures:
Weigh into separate pans for each test specimen the amount of each size fraction required to
produce a batch that will result in a compacted specimen 63.5 +/- 1.27mm (2.5 +/- 0.05 in.) in
height. This will normally be about 1200 gm. It is generally to prepare a trial specimen prior to
preparing the aggregate batches. If the trial specimen height falls outside the limits, theamount
of aggregate used for the specimen may be adjusted using:
Weight of
Range of Percentage passing % Weight of
Sieve Size (mm) Aggregates
by weight Aggregates
(gm)
20 100
12.5 80-100
10 70-90
4.75 50-70
2.36 35-50
0.600 18-29
0.300 13-23
0.150 8-16
0.075 4-10
Binder content by
weight of mix
The Marshall stability was found to be: kN
The flow of the mix was found to be: mm
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General remarks:
Questions
1. What are two major features of the Marshall method of mix design?
2. What is the significance of stability and flow value in Marshall test?
3. How is the optimum bitumen content determined?
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