ROAD AGGREGATES.

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1.AGGREGATE IMPACT VALUE TEST.

( IS : 2386 PART 4 )
INTRODUCTION:
Toughness is the property of a material to resist impact. Due to traffic loads, the road
stones are subjected to the pounding action or impact and there is possibility of stones
breaking into smaller pieces. The road stones should therefore be tough enough to resist
fracture under impact. A test designed to evaluate the toughness of stones i.e., the
resistance of the fracture under repeated impacts may be called an impact test for road
stones.
Object:
To determine the toughness of road stone materials by Impact test.
Apparatus:
a) Impact testing machine: The machine consists of a metal base with a plane lower
surface supported well on a firm floor, without rocking. A detachable cylindrical steel
cup of internal diameter 102mm and depth 50mm is rigidly fastened centrally to the base
plate. A metal hammer of weight between 13.5 and 14.0 kg having the lower end
cylindrical in shape, 100mm in diameter and 50mm long, with 2mm chamfer at the lower
edge is capable of sliding freely between vertical guides, and fall concentric over the cup.
There is an arrangement for raising the hammer and allowing it to fall freely between
vertical guides from a height of 380mm on the test sample in the cup, the height of fall
being adjustable up to 5mm. A key is provided for supporting the hammer while
fastening or removing the cup.
b) Measure: A cylindrical metal measure having internal diameter 75mm and depth
50mm for measuring aggregates.
c) Tamping rod: A straight metal tamping rod of circular cross section, 10mm in
diameter and 230mm long, rounded at one end.
d) Sieve: IS sieve of sizes 12.5mm, 10mm, and 2.36mm for sieving the aggregates.
e) Balance: A balance of capacity not less than 500 gm to weigh accurate up to 0.1 gm.
f) Oven: A thermostatically controlled drying oven capable of maintaining constant
temperature between 1000C to1100C.
Procedure:
The test sample consists of aggregates passing 12.5mm sieve and retained on 10mm sieve
and dried in an oven for four hours at a temperature 1000C to 1100C and cooled. Test
aggregates are filled up to about one-third full in the cylindrical measure and tamped 25
times with rounded end of the tamping rod. Further quantity of aggregates is then added
up to two-third full in the cylinder and 25 stocks of the tamping rod are given. The
measure is now filled with the aggregates to over flow, tamped 25 times. The surplus

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aggregates are struck off using the tamping rod as straight edge. The net weight of the
aggregates in the measure is determined to the nearest gram and this weight of the
aggregates is used for carrying out duplicate test on the same material. The impact
machine is placed with its bottom plate flat on the floor so that the hammer guide
columns are vertical. The cup is fixed firmly in position on the base of the machine and
the whole of the test sample from the cylindrical measure is transferred to the cup and
compacted by tamping with 25 strokes.
The hammer is raised until its lower face is 380mm above the upper surface of the
aggregates in the cup, and allowed to fall freely on the aggregates. The test sample is
subjected to a total 15 such blows, each being delivered at an interval of not less than one
second. The crushed aggregate is then removed from the cup and the whole of it sieved
on the 2.36mm sieve until no further significant amount passes. The fraction passing the
sieve is weighed accurate to 0.1gm. The fraction retained on the sieve is also weighed
and if the total weight of the fractions passing and retained on the sieve is added it should
not be less the original weight of the specimen by more than one gram, if the total weight
is less than the original by over one gram the results should be discarded and a fresh test
made.
Calculations:
The aggregate impact value is expressed as the percentage of the fines formed in terms of
the total weight of the sample.
100 W2
Aggregate Impact Value =
W1
Where,

W1 = Original weight of the sample.

W2 = Weight of fraction passing 2.36mm IS sieve.

Results:
The mean of the three results is reported as the AIV(Aggregate Impact Value) of the
specimen to the nearest whole number.
Limits:
< 10%
10 20%
20 30%
> 35%

Exceptionally strong.
Strong.
Satisfactory for road surfacing.
Weak for road surfacing.

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2. LOS ANGLES ABRASION VALUE TEST.

( IS : 2386 PART 4 )
INTRODUCTION:
Due to the movement of traffic, the road stones used in the surfacing course are subjected
to wearing action at the top. Resistance to wear or hardness is hence an essential property
for road aggregates, especially when used in wearing course. Thus road stones should be
hard enough to resist the abrasion due to the traffic. When fast moving traffic fitted with
pneumatic tyres move on the road, the soil particles present between the wheel and road
surface causes abrasion on the road stone. Steel tyres of animal drawn vehicles, which
rub against the stones, can cause considerable abrasion of the stones on the road surface.
Hence in order to test the suitability of road stones to resist the abrading action due to
traffic.
Object:
To determine the aggregates abrasion test by Los Angles Abrasion method.
Apparatus:
a)Los Angles Abrasion Machine: The Los Angles Machine consists of a hollow steel
cylinder, closed at both ends, having an inside diameter 700mm and an inside length of
500mm, mounted on stub shafts about which it rotates on a horizontal axis, and rotating
arrangement for speed of 30 to 33 revolutions per minute. An opening is provided in the
cylinder for the introduction of the test sample. A removable cover of the opening is
provided in such a way that when closed and fixed by bolts and nuts, it is dust-tight and
the interior surface is perfectly cylindrical. A removable steel shelf projecting radially
88mm in to the cylinder and extending to the full length of it, is mounted on the interior
surface of the cylinder rigidly, parallel to the axis. The shelf is fixed at a distance of
1250mm from the opening, measured along the circumference in the direction of rotation.
Abrasion charge, consisting of cast iron spheres approximately 48mm in diameter and
390 to 445gm in weight are used.
b) Balance -10 kg capacity sensitivity 0.1 gm.
c) Test Sieve 1.70 mm IS sieve.
d) Oven.
Procedure:
Clean aggregates dried in an oven at 105 1100C to constant weight, confirming to any
one of the grading A, to G, is used for test. The grading or gradings used in the test
should be nearest to the grading to be used in the construction. Aggregates weighing 5 kg
for gradings A, B, C or D and 10 kg for gradings E, F or G may be taken as test specimen
and placed in the cylinder. The abrasion charge is also chosen, depending on the grading
of the aggregate and is placed in the cylinder of the machine. The cover is then fixed
dust-tight. The machine is rotated at a speed of 30 to 33 revolutions per minute.

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The machine is rotated for 500 revolutions for gradings A, B, C and D, for gradings E, F
and G, it shall be rotated for 1000 revolutions. The machine should be balanced and
driven in such a way as to maintain uniform peripheral speed.
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. Using a sieve of
size 1.70mm IS sieve, the material is first separated into two parts and the finer portion is
taken out and sieved further on a 1.70mm IS sieve. The portion of material coarser than
1.70mm size is washed and dried in an oven at 105 1100C to constant weight and
weighed correct to one gram.
Calculations:
The difference between the original and final weights of the sample is expressed as a
percentage of the original weight of the sample is reported as the percentage wears.
(W1 W2)
Loa Angles Abrasion Value =

100
W1

Where,

W1 = Original weight of the sample.

W2 = Weight of aggregate retained on 1.70mm IS sieve.
(W1 W2) = Los in weight due to wear.

Results:
The result of the Los Angles Abrasion is expressed as a percentage wear and the average
value of three tests.
Limits:
Loa Angles Abrasion for road aggregates = Maximum 40%.

A
B
C
D
E
F
G

Weight in grams of each test sample in size range, mm

nd retained on square holea)
80 to 63 to 50 to
63
50
40
2500 2500 5000
5000
-

(Passing

40 to 25 to 20 to 12.5 10 to 6.3 to 4.75 to

25
20
12.5 to 10 6.3 4.75
2.36
1250 1250 1250 1250
2500 2500
2500 2500
5000
5000
5000 5000
-

55

Abrasion charge
Number
of
spheres

Grading

Types of Grading and Abrasion charges:

Weight of
charge, gm

12
11
8
6
12
12
12

5000+/-25
4584+/-25
3330+/-20
2500+/-15
5000+/-25
5000+/-25
5000+/-25

VKLR - QME

3.AGGREGATE CRUSHING VALUE TEST.

( IS : 2386 PART 4 )
INTRODUCTION:
The principal mechanical properties required in stones are (i) satisfactory resistance to
crushing under the roller during construction and (ii) adequate resistance to surface
abrasion under traffic.
Aggregates used in road construction, should be strong enough to resist crushing under
traffic wheel loads. If the aggregates are weak, the stability of the pavement structure is
likely to be adversely affected. The strength of coarse aggregates is assessed by
aggregates crushing test. 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.
Object:
To determine the aggregate crushing value by compressive testing machine.
Apparatus:
a) Steel cylinder with open ends, and internal diameter 152mm, square base plate,
plunger having a piston of diameter 150mm, with a hole provided across the stem of the
plunger so that a rod could be inserted for lifting or placing the plunger in the cylinder.
b) Cylindrical measure having internal diameter of 115mm and height 180mm.
c) Steel tamping rod with one rounded end, having a diameter of 16mm and length 450 to
600mm.
d) Balance of capacity 3 kg with accuracy up to 1gm.
e) Compressive testing machine capable of applying load of 40 tonnes, at a uniform rate
of loading of 4 tonnes per minute.
Procedure:
The aggregate passing 12.5mm IS sieve and retained on 10mm IS sieve is selected for
standard test. The aggregate should be in surface dry condition before testing. The
aggregate may be dried by heating at a temperature 1000C to 1100C for a period of 4
hours and is tested after being cooled to room temperature.
The cylindrical measure is filled by the test sample of aggregate in three layers of
approximately equal depth, each layer being tamped 25 times by the rounded end of the

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tamping rod. After the third layer is tamped, using the tamping rod as a straight edge
levels off the aggregate at the top of the cylindrical measure. About 6.5kg of aggregate is
required for preparing two test samples. The test sample thus taken is then weighed. The
same weight of the sample is taken in the repeat test.
The cylinder of the test apparatus is placed in position on the base plate; one third of the
test sample is placed in this cylinder and tamped 25 times by the tamping rod. Similarly,
the other two parts of the test specimen are added, each layer being subjected to 25
blows. The total depth of the material in the cylinder after tamping shall however be
100mm. The surface of the aggregates is leveled and the plunger inserted so that it rests
on this surface in level position. The cylinder with the test sample and the plunger in
position is placed on compression testing machine. Load is then applied through the
plunger at a uniform rate of 4 tonnes per minute until the total load is 40 tonnes, and then
the load is released. Aggregates including the crushed portion are removed from the
cylinder and sieved on a 2.36mm IS sieve. The material, which passes this sieve, is
collected.
The above crushing test is repeated on second sample of the same weight in accordance
with above test procedure. Thus two tests are made for the same specimen for taking an
average value.
Calculation:
The aggregate crushing value is defined, as a ratio of the weight of fines passing the
specified IS sieve to the total weight of the sample expressed as a percentage.
100 W2
Aggregate crushing value =
W1
Where,

W1 = Total weight of dry sample.

W2 = Weight of the portion of crushed material passing 2.36mm IS sieve.

Results:
The mean of the crushing value obtained in the two tests is reported as the aggregate
crushing value.
Limits:
The aggregate crushing value for cement concrete pavement shall not exceed 30%.
The aggregate crushing value for wearing surfaces shall not exceed 45%.

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4. FLAKINESS & ELONGATION INDEX TEST( SHAPE TEST ).

( IS : 2386 PART 1 )
INTRODUCTION:
The particle shape of aggregates is determined by the percentages of flaky and elongated
particles contained in it. For base course and construction of bituminous and cement
concrete types, the presence of flaky and elongated particles are considered undesirable
as they may cause inherent weakness with possibilities of breaking down under heavy
loads. The angularity number i.e., flaky and elongation has considerable importance in
the gradation requirements of various types of mixes such as bituminous concrete,
cement concrete and soil aggregate mixes.
Object:
To determine the flakiness and elongation of the aggregates by standard flakiness gauge
and elongation gauges.
Apparatus:
a) Flakiness gauge (Thickness gauge): The Flakiness index of aggregates is the
percentages by weight of particles whose least dimension is less than three-fifths (0.6) of
their mean dimension. The test is not applicable to sizes smaller than 6.3mm. The
apparatus consists of a standard thickness gauge of IS sieve sizes 63, 50, 40, 31.5, 25, 20,
16, 12.5, 10 and 6.3mm and a balance to weigh the samples.
b) Elongation gauge (Length gauge): 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 test is not applicable to
sizes smaller than 6.3mm. The apparatus consists of a standard length gauge of IS sieve
sizes 50, 40, 31.5, 25, 20, 16, 12.5, 10 and 6.3mm.
Procedure:
a) Flakiness Index: The sample is sieved with the sieves mentioned in above. A
minimum of 200 pieces of each fraction to be tested is taken and weighed. In order to
separate flaky materials, each fraction is then gauged for thickness on a thickness gauge.
The amount of flaky material passing the gauge is weighed to an accuracy of at least 0.1
percent of the test sample.
Calculation:
In order to calculate the flakiness index of the entire sample of aggregates first the weight
of each fraction of aggregate passing and retained on the specified set of sieves is noted
(X1, X2, X3 etc). Each of the particle from this fraction of aggregate is tried to be
passed through the slot of the specified thickness of the thickness gauge are found and

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weighed (x1, x2, x3 etc). Then the flakiness index is the total weight of the flaky
material passing the various thickness gauges expressed as a percentage of the total
weight of the sample gauged.
(x1 + x2 + x3 + )
Flakiness Index

X 100
(X1 + X2 + X3 + )

b) Elongation Index: The sample is sieved through the IS sieves specified as above. A
minimum of 200 pieces of each fraction is taken and weighed. In order to separate
elongated material, each fraction is then gauged individually for length in a length gauge.
The pieces of aggregates from each fraction tested which could not pass through the
specified gauge length with its long side are elongated particles and are collected
separately to find the total weight of aggregates retained on the length gauge from each
fraction. The total amount of elongated material retained by the length gauge is weighed
to an accuracy of at least 0.1 percent of the weight of the sample.
Calculation:
In order to calculate the Elongation index of the entire sample of aggregates first the
weight of each fraction of aggregate passing and retained on the specified set of sieves is
noted (Y1, Y2, Y3 etc). Each piece of these are tried to be passed through the specified
length of the gauge length with its longest side and those elongated pieces which do not
pass the gauge are separated and weighed (y1, y2, y3 ). Then the Elongation index is
the total weight of the material retained on the various length gauges, expressed as a
percentage of the total weight of the sample gauged.
(y1 + y2 + y3 + )
Elongation Index =

X 100
(Y1 + Y2 + Y3 + )

Combined Flakiness & Elongation Index: To determine this combined proportion, the
flaky stone from a representative sample should first be separated out. Flakiness index is
weight of flaky stone metal divided by weight of stone sample. Only the elongated
particle is separated out from the remaining (non flaky) stone metal. Elongation index is
weight of elongated particles divided by total non-flaky particles. The value of flakiness
index and elongation index so found are added up.
Limits:
(i) Flakiness Index for Bituminous and Non-bituminous Mixes = Max. 15%
(ii) Elongation Index for Bituminous and Non-bituminous mixes = Max. 15%
(iii) Combined Flakiness and Elongation Index for Bituminous and Non-bituminous
mixes = Max.30%
(iv) Flakiness Index for Concrete mixes = Max.35%

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5.SOUNDNESS TEST.
( IS : 2386 PART 5 )
INTRODUCTION:
This test is intended to study the resistance of aggregates to weathering action.
In order to quicken the effect of weathering due to alternate wet-dry and or freeze-thaw
cycles in the laboratory, the resistance to disintegration of aggregate is determined by
soaking the specimen in saturated solution of sodium sulphate or magnesium sulphate.
Object:
Determination of the soundness of aggregates.
Apparatus:
The apparatus required for the test are containers for aggregates, sieves (63, 50, 40, 31.5,
20, 16, 10, 8, 4.75 and 4mm), balance of capacity 5kg to weight accurate to at least 0.1g
and oven to maintain 1050C to 1100C.
Procedure:
Saturated solution of Sodium sulphate (the anhydrous Na2SO4 or the crystalline Na2SO4
10H2O) is prepared in water at a temperature of 250 to 300C. The solution is maintained
at a temperature of 270C+/-20C and stirred at frequent intervals, until it is used. At the
time of using the solution should have a specific gravity of not less than 1.151 and not
more than 1.171, and discolored solution should not be used. It may be necessary to use
not less than 420g of anhydrous salt or 1300g of the crystalline decahydrate salt per liter
of water.
Alternatively saturated solution of Magnesium sulphate may be prepared by dissolving
either anhydrous (MgSO4) or crystalline (MgSO47H2O) magnesium sulphate. At the time
of using, the solution should have a specific gravity of not less than 1.295 and not more
than 1.308. Not less than 400g of the anhydrous salt or 1600g of the crystalline
heptahydrate may be used per liter of water.
The specimen of coarse aggregate for the test may be prepared after removing the
fraction finer than 4.75mm IS sieve. The sample should be of such a size that it would
yield not less than the following amounts of the different sizes, which should be available
in amount of 5 percent or more.
(i)

20mm to 10mm
1000 g
10mm to 4.75mm
300 g
consisting of 20 to 12.5mm 67%
12.5 to 10mm 33%

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(ii)

40mm to 20mm
1500 g
consisting of 40 to 25mm 67%
25 to 20mm 33%

(iii)

63mm to 40mm
3000 g
consisting of 63 to 50mm 50%
50 to 40mm 50%

(iv)

80mm and large sizes by

20mm spread in sieve size,
each fraction

- 3000 g

The sample of coarse aggregate should be thoroughly washed and dried to a constant
weight at 1050 to 1100C and is separated to different size ranges, as given above, by
sieving. The proper weight of the sample for each fraction is weighed and placed in
separate containers for the test. In the case of fraction coarser than 20mm, the particles
are also counted. The samples are immersed in the prepared solution of sodium sulphate
or magnesium sulphate for 16 to 18 hours in such a manner that the solution covers them
to a depth of at least 15mm. The containers are kept covered to reduce evaporation and
during the period of immersion, the temperature of the solution is maintained at 270 +/10C.
After the immersion period, the aggregates are removed from the solution, drained for
about 15 minutes, and placed in the drying oven maintained at a temperature of 1050 to
1100C. The samples are dried to a constant weight at this temperature by checking the
weights after 4 hours up to 18 hours. When the successive weights differ by less than 1 g,
it may be considered that constant weight has been attained and then it may be allowed to
cool to room temperature. Then the aggregates are again immersed in the prepared
solution, for the next cycle of immersion and drying. The number of cycles of alternate
immersion and drying are minimum 5 for road aggregates.
After completion of the final cycle, the sample is cooled washed free from the sulphat.
This may be determined when there is no more reaction of the wash water with barium
chloride (i.e., when there is no white precipitation when barium chloride is added to wash
water, it can be said that there is no sulphate with wash water). Each fraction of the
sample is then dried to constant temperature of 1050 to 1100C and weighed. Coarse
aggregate fractions are sieved by IS sieves of sizes indicated below:
Size of aggregate

Sieve size used to determine loss

63 to 40 mm
40 to 20 mm
20 to 10 mm
10 to 4.75 mm

31.5 mm
16.0 mm
8.0 mm
4.0 mm

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Each fraction of aggregate is examined visually to see if there is any evidence of

excessive splitting, crumbling or disintegration of the grains. A combined sieve analysis
of all the materials subjected to the above test cycles, may also be carried out to note the
variation from the original grain size distribution of the sample.

Limits:
Soundness of aggregates: Loss with Sodium Sulphate 5 cycles
Loss with Magnesium Sulphate 5 cycles

62

Max.12%.
Max.18%.

VKLR - QME

6.SPECIFIC GRAVITY AND WATER ABSORPTION TEST.

( IS : 2386 PART 3 )
INTRODUCTION:
The specific gravity of an aggregate is considered to be a measure of strength or quality
of the material. The specific gravity test helps in the identification of stone.
Water absorption gives an idea of strength of aggregate. Aggregates having more water
absorption are more porous in nature and are generally considered unsuitable unless they
are found to be acceptable based on strength, impact and hardness tests.
Object:
To determine the specific gravity and water absorption of aggregates by perforated
basket.
Apparatus:
a) A wire basket of not more than 6.3mm mesh or a perforated container of convenient
size with thin wire hangers for suspending it from the balance.
b) A thermostatically controlled oven to maintain temperature of 1000 to 1100C.
c) A container for filling water and suspending the basket.
d) An airtight container of capacity similar to that of the basket.
e) A balance of capacity about 5 kg, to weigh accurate to 0.5 g, and of such a type and
shape as to permit weighing of the sample container when suspended in water.
f) A shallow tray and two dry absorbent clothes, each not less than 750 X 450 mm.
Procedure:
About 2 kg of the aggregate sample is washed thoroughly to remove fines, drained and
then placed in the wire basket and immersed in distilled water at a temperature between
220 to 320C with a cover of at least 50mm of water above the top of the basket.
Immediately after immersion the entrapped air is removed from the sample by lifting the
basket containing it 25mm above the base of the tank and allowing it to drop 25 times at
the rate of about one drop per second. The basket and the aggregate should remain
completely immersed in water for a period of 24 +/- 0.5 hours afterwards.
The basket and the sample are then weighed while suspended in water at a temperature of
220 to 320C. In case it is necessary to transfer the basket and the sample to a different
tank for weighing, they should be jolted 25 times as described above in the new tank to
remove air before weighing. This weight is noted while suspended in water W1 g. The
basket and the aggregate are then removed from water and allowed to drain for a few
minutes, after which the aggregates are transferred to one of the dry absorbent clothes.
The empty basket is then returned to the tank of water, jolted 25 times and weight in
water W2 g.

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The aggregates placed on the absorbent clothes are surface dried till no further moisture
could be removed by this cloth. Then the aggregates are transferred to the second dry
cloth spread in a single layer, covered and allowed to dry for at least 10 minutes until the
aggregates are completely surface dry. 10 to 60 minutes drying may be needed. The
aggregates should not be exposed to the atmosphere, direct sunlight or any other source
of heat while surface drying. A gentle current of unheated air may be used during the first
ten minutes to accelerate the drying of aggregate surface. The surface dried aggregate is
then weighed W3 g. The aggregate is placed in a shallow tray and kept in an oven
maintained at a temperature of 1100C for 24 hours. It is then removed from the oven,
cooled in an airtight container and weighed W4 g. At least two tests should be carried
out, but not concurrently.
Calculations:
Weight of saturated aggregate suspended in water with the basket
Weight of basket suspended in water
Weight of saturated aggregate in water
Weight of saturated surface dry aggregate in air
Weight of water equal to the volume of the aggregate

=
=
=
=
=

W1 g
W2 g
(W1-W2) = Ws g.
W4 g
(W3-Ws) g

Dry weight of aggregate

(i) Specific gravity

=
Weight of equal volume of water
W4

W4

=
W3 - Ws

W3 (W1 W2)

Dry weight of aggregate

(ii)Apparent Sp.gr. =
(Weight of equal volume of water excluding air voids in aggregates)
W4
=

W4
=

W4 Ws

W4 (W1 W2)

(iii) Water absorption = percent by weight of water absorbed in terms oven dried weight
of aggregates.
(W3 W4) 100
=
W4
Limits: The specific gravity of aggregates ranges from 2.5 to 3.0
The water absorption of aggregates ranges from 0.1 to 2.0 %.

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7. TEN PERCENT FINES VALUE.

( BS : 812 PART 111 )
INTRODUCTION:
The Ten percent finesvalue is a measure of resistance of the aggregates to the crushing.
Object:
To determine the ten percent value of aggregates by crushing machine apparatus.
Apparatus:
a) Steel cylinder with open ends, and internal diameter 152mm, square base plate,
plunger having a piston of diameter 150mm, with a hole provided across the stem of the
plunger so that a rod could be inserted for lifting or placing the plunger in the cylinder.
b) Cylindrical measure having internal diameter of 115mm and height 180mm.
c) Steel tamping rod with one rounded end, having a diameter of 16mm and length 450 to
600mm.
d) Balance of capacity 3 kg with accuracy up to 1gm.
e) Compressive testing machine capable of applying load of 40 tonnes, at a uniform rate
of loading of 4 tonnes per minute.
Procedure:
The aggregate passing 14mm IS sieve and retained on 10mm IS sieve is selected for test.
The aggregate should be in surface-dry condition before testing. The aggregate may be
dried by heating at a temperature 1000C to 1100C for a period of 4 hours and is tested
after being cooled to room temperature.
The cylindrical measure is filled by the test sample of aggregate in three layers of
approximately equal depth, each layer being tamped 25 times. The same sample poured
in to the cylinder with three equal layers, each layer being tamped 25 times. The test
sample in the cylinder with the plunger in position is placed in the compression-testing
machine. The load is applied at a uniform rate so as to cause a total penetration of the
plunger of about 20mm for normal crushed aggregates in 10 minutes. But for rounded or
partially rounded aggregates, the load required to cause a total penetration of 15mm is
applied where as for honeycombed aggregate like expanded shale or slag that for a total
penetration of 24mm is applied in 10 minutes. After the maximum specified penetration
is reached, the load is released and the aggregate from the cylinder is sieved on a 2.36mm
IS sieve. The fines passing this sieve is weighed and is expressed as a percentage by
weight of the test sample. This percentage normally falls in the range of 7.5 to 12.5;

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but if it does not fall in this range, the test is repeated with necessary adjustment of the
load.
Two tests are carried out at the load X tonnes, which give the percentage fines between
7.5 to 12.5 and let the mean of the percent fines be Y for calculating the load required
for ten percent fines.
14 X
Load for 10 percent fines =
(Y + 4)
Results:
The 10 percent fines value of Granular Sub base material is should be more than 50 KN.

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8. BULKAGE & SILT CONTENT OF FINE AGGREGATE.

( IS : 2386 PART 3 )
INTRODUCTION:
Sand brought on to a building site or other works may contain an amount of moisture,
which will cause it, when loosely filled into a container, to occupy a large volume than it
would occupy if dry. If the sand is measured by loose volume, it is necessary in such a
case to increase the measured volume of the sand, in order that the amount of sand put
into the concrete may be the amount intended for the nominal mix used (based on dry
sand). It will be necessary to increase the volume of sand by the percentage bulking.
The correction to be made is only a rough approximation because the system of
measurement by loose volume is a rough method at the best, but a correction of the right
order can easily be determined and should be applied in order to keep the concrete
uniform.
Object:
This method of test covers the field method for determining the necessary adjustment for
the bulking & silt content of fine aggregate.
Apparatus:
250ml measuring cylinder, tray and water cane etc.
Procedure:
In a 250ml-measuring cylinder, pour the damp sand (consolidated by shaking) until it
reached the 200ml mark. Then fill the cylinder with water and stir the sand well (the
water shall be sufficient to submerge the sand completely). It will be seen that the sand
surface is now below its original level. Suppose the surface is at the mark Yml the
percentage of bulking of the sand due to moisture shall be calculated from the formula.
200
Percentage bulking =(

- 1) X 100
Y

Silt content =

(X Y)
--------- X 100
Y

Where, X = the level of top surface of material i.e., sand + sedimentation of silt.
Y = the level of top surface of sand layer.
Results: Report the percentage bulking of the sand to the nearest whole number.
Limits: Bulkage and silt content is allow maximum 10%

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9. DELETERIOUS CONTENT OF AGGREGATES.

( IS : 2386 PART 2 )

I. DETERMINATION OF CLAY LUMPS:

Apparatus:
1) Balance sensitive to 0.001 g, 2) Containers size and shape that will permit the
spreading of the sample on the bottom in a thin layer, 3) Sieves conforming to IS : 4601962.
Sampling:
Samples shall be obtained by quartering or by the use of a sampler, from a representative
sample selected from the material to be tested. They shall be handled in such a manner as
to avoid breaking up clay lumps, which may be present. Samples shall be dried to
constant weight at a temperature not exceeding 1100C.
Samples of fine aggregate shall consist of particles coarser than 1.18 mm IS sieve and
shall weigh not less than 100 g.
Samples of coarse aggregate shall be separated into different sizes using 4.75mm, 10mm,
20mm and 40mm IS sieves. The weight of the sample for different sizes shall be not less
than those indicated below:
Size of Particles Making Up the
Samples (mm)
4.75 to 10
10 to 20
20 to 40
Over 40

Weight of Sample Min.(g)

1000
2000
3000
5000

In the case of mixtures of fine and coarse aggregates, the material shall be separated into
two sizes on 4.75mm IS sieve, and the samples of fine and coarse aggregates shall be
prepared as described above.
Procedure:
The sample shall be spread in a thin layer on the bottom of the container and examined
for clay lumps. Any particles, which can be broken into finely divided particles with the
fingers, shall be classified as clay lumps. After all discernible clay lumps have been
broken, the residue from the clay lumps shall be removed by the use of sieves indicated
below:

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Size of Particles Making up the

Size of Sieve for Sieving Residue of
Sample
Clay Lumps
Fine aggregate (retained on 1.18mm
850 - micron
IS sieve)
4.75 to 10 mm
2.36 mm
10 mm to 20 mm
4.75 mm
20 mm to 40 mm
4.75 mm
Over 40 mm
4.75 mm

Calculations:
The percentage of clay lumps shall be calculated to the nearest 0.1 percent in accordance
with the following formula:
(W R)
L = ------------- X 100
W
Where,

L = percentage of clay lumps.

W = weight of sample.
R = weight of sample after removal of clay lumps.

II. DETERMINATION OF CLAY, FINE SILT AND FINE DUST.

Apparatus:
1) A watertight screw-topped glass jar of dimensions similar to a 1-kg fruit-preserving
jar, 2) A device for rotating the jar about its axis, with this axis horizontal, at a speed of
80 +/- 20 rev/min, 3) A sedimentation pipette of the Andreason type of approximately 25
ml capacity. This consists mainly of a pipette fitted at the top with a two way tap and held
rigidly in a clamp which can be raised or lowered as required, and which is fitted with a
scale from which the changes in height of the pipette can be read, 4) A 1000 ml
measuring cylinder, 5) A scale or balance of capacity not less than 10 kg, readable and
accurate to one gram, 6) A scale or balance of capacity not less than 250 g, readable and
accurate to 0.001 g, 7) A well ventilated oven, thermostatically controlled, to maintain a
temperature of 100 to 1100C.
Chemicals:
A solution containing 8 g of sodium oxalate per litre of distilled water shall be taken. For
use, this stock solution is diluted with distilled water to one tenth (that is 100 ml diluted
with distilled water to one litre).

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Test sample:
The sample for test shall be prepared from the main sample taking particular care that the
test sample contains a correct proportion of the finer material. The amount of sample
taken for test shall be in accordance with below table.
Maximum size present in
Approximate weight of sample
substantial proportions (mm)
for test (kg)
63 to 25
6
20 to 12.5
1
10 to 6.3
0.5
4.75 or smaller
0.3

All in aggregates shall be separated into fine and coarse fractions by sieving on a 4.75
mm IS sieve and the two samples so obtained shall be tested separately.
Procedure:
Method for fine aggregate: Approximately 300 g of the sample in the air dry condition,
passing the 4.75 mm IS sieve, shall be weighed and placed in the screw topped glass jar,
together with 300 ml of the diluted sodium oxalate solution. The rubber washer and cap
shall be fixed, care being taken to ensure water tightness. The jar shall then be rotated
about its long axis, with this axis horizontal, at a speed of 80 +/- 20 rev/min for a period
of 15 minutes. At the end of 15 minutes, the suspension shall be poured into the 1000 ml
measuring cylinder and the residue washed by gentle swirling and decantation of
successive 150 ml portions of sodium oxalate solution, the washings being added to the
cylinder until the volume is made up to 1000 ml. The determination shall be completed as
described below.
Method for coarse aggregate: The weighed sample shall be placed in a suitable
container, covered with a measured volume of sodium oxalate solution (0.8 g per litre),
agitated vigorously to remove all adherent fine material and the liquid suspension
transferred to the 1000 ml measuring cylinder. This process shall be repeated as
necessary until all clayey material has been transferred to the cylinder. The volume shall
be made up to 1000 ml with sodium oxalate solution and the determination completed as
described below.
The suspension in the measuring cylinder shall be thoroughly mixed by inversion and the
tube and contents immediately placed in position under the pipette. The pipette shall then
be gently lowered until the tip touches the surface of the liquid, and then lowered a
further 10 cm into the liquid. Three minutes after placing the tube in position, the pipette
and the bore of tap shall be filled by opening and applying gentle suction. A small surplus
may be drawn up into the bulb between tap and tube, but this shall be allowed to run
away and any solid matter shall be washed out with distilled water from top end. The
pipette shall then be removed from the measuring cylinder and its contents run into a
weighed container, any adherent solids being washed into the container by distilled water

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from top end. The contents of the container shall be dried at 100 to 1100C to constant
weight, cooled and weighed.
Calculations: The proportion of fine silt and clay or fine dust shall then be calculated
from the following formula:

100 1000W2
Percentage of clay and fine silt or fine dust = ----- ( ---------- - 0.8 )
W1
V
Where,

W1 = weight in g of the original sample.

W2 = weight in g of the dried residue.
V = volume in ml of the pipette
0.8 = weight in g of sodium oxalate in one litre of the diluted solution.

III.DETERMINATION OF LIGHT-WEIGHT PIECES.

Apparatus:
1) Balances for weighing fine aggregates, a balance having a capacity of not less than
500 g, sensitive to at least 0.1 g; for weighing coarse aggregates, a balance having a
capacity of not less than 5000 g, sensitive to at least 1 g.
2) Containers containers suitable for drying the aggregate sample, and containers
suitable for holding the heavy liquid during the sink-float separation.
3) Skimmer a piece of 300-micron sieve cloth of suitable size and shape for separating
the floating pieces from the heavy liquid.
4) Hot-plate or oven.
Heavy liquid: The heavy liquid shall consist of a mixture of carbon tetrachloride, and 1,
1, 2, 2-tetrabromoethane, bromoform, and monobromobenzene, or bromoform and
benzene, in such proportions that the desired specific gravity will be obtained.
Bromotrichloromethane may be used as a heavy liquid having a specific gravity of 2.00.
The specific gravity shall be maintained within +/- 0.01 of the specified value at all times
during the test.
The approximate volumes of materials to be combined to produce a mixture of the
desired specific gravity may be computed from the following specific gravities of the
different liquids:
Liquid
1,1,2,2-tetrabromoethane
Benzene
Bromoform
Carbon tetrachloride
Monobromobenzene

Specific gravity
2.97
0.88
2.88
1.58
1.49

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For determining coal and lignite, the heavy liquid used shall have a specific gravity of
2.00 +/- 0.01.
Test Sample: The minimum size of test sample shall be as follows:
Maximum size of
aggregate (mm)
6.3 (fine aggregate)
20
40
80

Minimum weight of
sample (grms)
200
3000
5000
10000

Procedure:
1) Fine aggregate: Allow the dried sample of fine aggregate to cool to room temperature
and then sieve over a 300-micron IS sieve until less than one percent of the retained
material passes the sieve in one minute of continuous sieving. Weigh the material coarser
than the 300-micron IS sieve to the nearest 0.1 g; then introduce it into the heavy liquid in
a suitable container, the volume of liquid being at least three times the absolute volume of
the aggregate. Pour the liquid off into a second container; passing it through the skimmer
and taking care that only the floating pieces are poured off with the liquid and that none
of the sand is 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 sample is free of floating
pieces. Wash the decanted pieces contained on the skimmer in carbon tetrachloride, until
the heavy liquid is removed, and then dry. The pieces will dry very quickly, but may be
placed in an oven at 1050C for a few minutes if desired. Brush the dry decanted pieces
from the skimmer onto the balance pan and determine the weight to the nearest 0.1 g.
2) Coarse aggregate: Allow the dried sample of coarse aggregate to cool to room
temperature and sieve over a 4.75 mm IS sieve. Weigh the material coarser than the 4.75
mm IS sieve to the nearest 1 g; then introduce it into the heavy liquid in a suitable
container, the volume of the liquid being at least three times the absolute volume of the
aggregate. Using the skimmer, remove the pieces that rise to the surface, and save them.
Repeatedly agitate the remaining pieces and remove the floating pieces until no
additional pieces rise to the surface. Wash the decanted pieces in carbon tetrachloride
until all of the heavy liquid is removed, and allow to dry. Determine the weight of the
decanted pieces to the nearest 1-gram.
Calculations: Calculate the percentage of lightweight pieces as follows:
For fine aggregate:
W1
L = ----- X 100
W2

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For coarse aggregate:

W1
L = ----- X 100
W3
Where,

L = percentage of lightweight pieces.

W1 = dry weight in g, of decanted pieces.
W2 = dry weight in g, of portion of sample coarser than 300-micron IS sieve.
W3 = dry weight in g, of portion of sample coarser than 4.75 mm IS sieve.

IV. DETERMINATION OF SOFT PARTICLES.

Apparatus: The apparatus shall consist of a brass rod, having a Rockwell hardness of
65 RHB to 75 RHB. A brass rod of about 1.6mm diameter and of proper hardness
inserted into the wood shaft of an ordinary lead pencil is a convient tool for field or
laboratory use.
Test Sample: Aggregates for the test shall consist of material from which the sizes finer
than the 10mm IS sieve have been removed. The sample tested shall be of such size that
it will yield not less than the following amount of the different sizes, which shall be
available in amounts of 10 percent or more:
Sieve size (mm)
10 to 12.5
12.5 to 20
20 to 25
25 to 40
40 to 50

Sample Weight (grms)

200
600
1500
4500
12000

Procedure:
Each particle of aggregate under test shall be scratched with the brass rod with a small
amount of pressure (about 1 kg). Particles are considered to be soft if during the
scratching process, a groove is made in them without deposition of metal from the brass
rod or if separate particles are detached from the rock mass.
Calculations: The report shall include the following information.
a) Weight and number of particles of each size of each sample tested with the brass rod.
b) Weight and number of particles of each size of each sample classified as soft in the
test.
c) Percentage of test sample classified as soft by weight and by number of particles.
d) Weighed average percentage of soft particles calculated from percentage in item (c)
and based on the grading of sample of aggregate received for testing.

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