A.

MIX DESIGN PROCESS

5. Flow chart of procedures

The manner in which this method links the various factors involved in the process of
designing a mix is shown as a flow chart in Figure 2. Also a suitable mix design form for
recording the values derived is shown in Table 1*. It will be seen from the flow chart that
initial information is divided into two categories:
● Specified variables, the values of which are usually nominated in specifications, and
● Additional information, which is normally available to the producer of the concrete.

This initial information is used in conjunction with reference data, which appear in the form
of figures or tables in this publication, to evaluate a number of ‘derived values’ which are also
subdivided into two categories:
● The mix parameters, several of which form an intermediate step to the derivation of the
second category, and
● The final unit proportions, which are defined in terms of mass of materials required to
produce one cubic meter of compacted concrete, expressed to the nearest 5 kg.

In order to clarify the sequence of operation, and for ease of reference, the flow process is
divided into five stages. Each of these stages deals with a particular aspect of the design and
ends with an important parameter or final unit proportions.

Stage 1 : Deals with strength leading to the free-water/ cement ratio

Stage 2 : Deals with workability leading to the free-water content
Stage 3 : Combines the results of Stages 1 and 2 to give the cement content
Stage 4 : Deals with the determination of the total aggregate content
Stage 5 ; Deals with the selection of the fine and coarse aggregate contents

The mix design form shown in Table 1 is sub-divided into the same five stages and the
separate item numbers correspond with the relevant boxes of the flow chart in Figure 2

5.1 Selection of target water/cement ratio (Stage 1)

If previous information concerning the variability of strength tests comprises fewer than
20 results, the standard deviation to be adopted should be that obtained from line A in Figure
3. If previous information is available consisting of 20 or more results, the standard deviation
of such results may be used provided that this value is not less than the appropriate value
obtained from line B. The margin can then be derived from calculation C1:

M = k × s …C1
Where ,
M = the margin (Item 1.3)
k = a value appropriate to the ‘percentage defectives’ permitted below the
characteristic strength (see 4.4)
s = the standard deviation.

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Instead of working from the standard deviation and obtaining the margin through calculation
C1, the margin itself may be specified direct. Hence Item 1.3 may be a derived value or an
optional specified value as indicated in Figure 2. Calculation C2 determines the target mean
strength (expressed to two significant figures):

fm = fc + M …C2

Where ,
fm = the target mean strength
fc = the specified characteristic strength
M = the margin

Next, a value is obtained from Table 2 for the strength of a mix made with a free-
water/cement ratio of 0.5 according to the specified age, the strength class of the cement and
the aggregate to be used. This strength value is then plotted on Figure 4 and a curve is drawn
from this point and parallel to the printed curves until it intercepts a horizontal line passing
through the ordinate representing the target mean strength. The corresponding value for the
free-water/cement ratio can then be read from the abscissa. This should be compared with any
maximum free-water/cement ratio that may be specified and the lower of these two values
used.

5.2 Selection of free-water content (Stage 2)

Stage 2 consists simply of determining the free-water content from Table 3 depending
upon the type and maximum size of the aggregate to give a concrete of the specified slump or
Vebe time.

5.3 Determination of cement content (Stage 3)

The cement content is determined from calculation C3:

Cement content = free-water content …C3

free-water / cement ratio

The resulting value should be checked against any maximum or minimum value that
may be specified. If the calculated cement content from C3 is below a specified minimum, this
minimum value must be adopted and a modified free-water/cement ratio calculated which will
be less than that determined in Stage 1.

This will result in a concrete that has a mean strength somewhat higher than the target
mean strength. Alternatively, the free water/cement ratio from Stage 1 is used resulting in a
higher free-water content and increased workability. On the other hand, if the design method
indicates a cement content that is higher than a specified maximum then it is probable that the
specification cannot be met simultaneously on strength and workability requirements with the
selected materials. Consideration should then be given to changing the type or strength class,
or both, of cement, the type and maximum size of aggregate or the level of workability of the
concrete, or to the use of a water-reducing admixture.

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 Table 2: Approximate Compressive Strength (N/mm2) of Concrete Mixes Made with a Free-
Water / Cement Ratio 0.5
Type of Compressive Strengths (N/mm2)
Type of
Coarse Age ( days)
Cement 3 7 28 91
Aggregate
Ordinary
Portland Uncrushed 22 30 42 49
(OPC) or
Sulphate
Resisting Crushed 27 36 49 56
Portland

Rapid Uncrushed 29 37 48 54
Hardening
(SRPC)
Portland
(RHPC) Crushed
34 43 55 61

1 N/mm2 = 1 MN/m2 = 1 MPa

Table 3: Approximate Free-Water Contents (kg/m3) required to Give Various Levels of

Workability
Slump (mm) 0-10 10-30 30-60 60-180
Vebe Time (s) >12 6-12 3-6 0-3
Maximum Type of
Size Aggregate
Aggregate
(mm) Uncrushed 150 180 205 225
10 Crushed 180 205 230 250
Uncrushed 135 160 180 195
20 Crushed 170 190 210 225
Uncrushed 115 140 160 175
40 Crushed 155 175 190 205

Note: When coarse and fine aggregate of different types are used, the free-water content is
estimated by the expression
2/3 Wf + 1/3 Wc
Where,
Wf = free-water content appropriate to type of fine aggregate
and
Wc = free-water content appropriate to type of coarse aggregate

On the other hand, if the design method indicates a cement content that is higher than a
specified maximum then it is probable that the specification cannot be met simultaneously on
strength and workability requirements with the selected materials. Consideration should then
be given to changing the type or strength class, or both, of cement, the type and maximum size
of aggregate or the level of workability of the concrete, or to the use of a water-reducing
admixture.

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5.4 Determination of total aggregate content (Stage 4)
Stage 4 requires an estimate of the density of the fully compacted concrete which is
obtained from Figure 5 depending upon the free-water content and the relative density* of the
combined aggregate in the saturated surface-dry condition (SSD). If no information is
available regarding the relative density of the aggregate, an approximation can be made by
assuming a value of 2.6 for uncrushed aggregate and 2.7 for crushed aggregate. From this
estimated density of the concrete the total aggregate content is determined from calculation
C4:

Total aggregate content = D - C -W …C4

(Saturated and surface-dry)

Where,
D = the wet density of concrete (kg/m3)
C = the cement content (kg/m3)
W = the free-water content (kg/m3)

5.5 Selection of fine and coarse aggregate contents (Stage 5)

Stage 5 involves deciding how much of the total aggregate should consist of materials
smaller than 5 mm, i.e. the sand or fine aggregate content. Figure 6 shows recommended values
for the proportion of fine aggregate depending on the maximum size of aggregate, the
workability level, the grading of the fine aggregate (defined by its percentage passing a 600
µm sieve) and the free-water/cement ratio. The best proportion of fines to use in a given mix
will depend on the shape of the particular aggregate, the actual grading of shape of the
particular aggregate, the actual grading of the fine aggregate and the use to which the concrete
is to be put. However, adoption of a proportion obtained from Figure 6 will generally give a
satisfactory concrete in the first trial mix which can then be adjusted as required for the exact
conditions prevailing.

The final calculation, C5, to determine the fine and coarse aggregate contents, is made
using the proportion of fine aggregate obtained from Figure 6 and the total aggregate content
derived in Stage 4:

Fine aggregate content =

Total aggregate content × proportion of fines
…C5
Coarse aggregate content =
Total aggregate content - fine aggregate content

The coarse aggregate content itself can be subdivided if single sized 10, 20 and 40 mm
materials are to be combined. Again, the best proportions will depend on aggregate shape and
concrete usage but the following ratios are suggested as a general guide:

1:2 for combination of 10 and 20 mm material

1:1.5:3 for combination of 10, 20 and 40 mm material

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Table 1: Concrete mix design form
Stage Item Reference or Value calculation

1 1.1 Characteristic strength Specified N/mm2 at days Proportion

defective per cent

1.2 Standard deviation ( Fig 3 N/mm2 or no data N/mm2

1.3 Margin ( k x  C1 (k = ) x = N/mm2
1.4 Target mean strength C2 + = N/mm2
1.5 Cement type Specified OPC / SRP / RHPC
1.6 Aggregate type : coarse
Aggregate type : fine
1.7 free-water / cement ratio Table 2, Fig 4
Use the lower value
1.8 Maximum free-water / cement ratio Specified

2 2.1 Slump or V-B Specified Slump mm or V-B s

2.2 Maximum aggregate size Specified mm
2.3 Free - water content Table 3 kg/m 3

3 3.1 Cement content C3  = kg/m 3

3.2 Maximum cement content Specified kg/m 3
3
3.3 Minimum cement content Specified kg/m - Use if greater than Item 3.1 and
calculate Item 3.4
3.4 Modified free-water /cement ratio

4 4.1 Relative density of aggregate (SSD) known/ assumed

4.2 Concrete density Fig 5 kg/m 3
4.3 Total aggregate content C4 - - = kg/m 3

BS 882
Fig 6 per cent
= kg/m 3
C5
= kg/m 3

Water Fine aggregate Coarse aggregate

(kg) (kg or l) (kg)

per m3 (to nearest 5 kg)

per trial mix of m3

Item in italics are optional limiting values that may be specified ( see Section 7 )
1 N/ mm2 = 1 MN/ m = 1 MPa (see footnote on page 8)
OPC = ordinary Portland cement; SPRC = sulphate-resisting Portland cement; RHPC = rapid-hardening Portland cement
Relative density = specific gravity (see footnote on page 15)
SSD = based on a saturated surface-dry basis

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Figure 6: Recommended proportions of fine aggregate according to percentage passing a
600 µm sieve.

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B. MIXING AND SAMPLING FRESH CONCRETE

1.0 OBJECTIVE
Mixing and sampling fresh concrete in the laboratory (as recommended by BS 1881: Part
125:1986)

2.0 APPARATUS
A non-porous timber or metal platform, a pair of shovels, a steel hand scoop, measuring
cylinder and a small concrete mixer (if machine mix)

3.0 PROCEDURE
a) Weight the quantities of cement, sand and course aggregate to make 1:2:4 concrete
mix at water ratio 0.6

b) Hand mixing
i. Mix cement and sand first until uniform on the non-porous platform
ii. Pour course aggregate and mix thoroughly until uniform
iii. Form a hole in the middle and add water in the hole. Mix thoroughly for 3
minutes or until the mixture appears uniform in color

c) Machine Mixing
i. Wet the mixer
ii. Pour aggregate and mix for 25 second
iii. Add half of water and mix for 1 minute and leave for 8 minutes
iv. Add cement and mix for 1 minute
v. Stop the machine and do hand mixing to ensure homogeneity
vi. Pour out the concrete onto the non-porous surface

4.0 PRECAUTIONS
a) The room temperature should be approximately 25-27°C.
b) Make sure that fine and aggregate are dry. If they are wet find the content of the
aggregates to determine the quality of water required.

C. SLUMP TEST - TEST FOR WORKABILITY

1.0 OBJECTIVE
To measure the workability of a sample from a batch of fresh concrete of a given mix
(as recommended by BS 1881: Part 102:1983)

2.0 THEORY
The measurement of the workability of fresh concrete is important in assessing the
practicality of compacting the mix and also in maintaining consistency throughout the
job.
3.0 APPARATUS

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 Truncated conical mould 100mm in diameter at the top, 200mm at bottom and 300mm
high, with a steel tamping rod (16mm diameter & 600mm long), rounded at one end, a
scoop, a steel ruler and a steel trowel.
4.0 PROCEDURE
a. Clean the inside mould and place it on a hard, flat and nonabsorbent surface.
b. Take a representative sample (about 15kg) from a fresh concrete mix.
c. Fill the mould in four layers of concrete of approximately equal depth (each layer is
about 75mm). Each layer is rodded 25 times with the rounded end of steel rod.
Make sure each rodding passes through the high of each layer.
d. After the top layer has been rodded, the surface of the concrete is struck off with a
trowel to level up with the top of the mould.
e. Clean away any spillage of the concrete around the base of the mould.
f. Carefully and slow lift the mould vertically from the concrete. Invert the mould and
place it next to the moulded concrete. The concrete will slump.
g. Place the rod across the top of the mould.
h. The slump is the different between the height of the slumped concrete and the
mould. Using the steel ruler,, measure the slump from the top of the concrete to the
underside of the rod.
i. Record the slump to the nearest 5mm.

5.0 PRECAUTION
a. The test should be done 6 minutes after water is added to dry concrete mix (as
recommended by BS 1881-Part 102, 1983).
b. During filling the mould must be firmly pressed against its base.
c. The rodding should be applied uniformly through the entire area of the concrete.
d. The bottom layer should be rodded throughout its dept.
e. Vibration from nearly machine might increase the subsidence.
f. If the specimen collapses off laterally, repeat the test with another sample of the
same batch of concrete.
g. If, in repeat test, the specimen should again collapse or shear, record the slump.

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 FIGURE 1: A Slump Cone

FIGURE 2: Measure of Slump

Type of slump

TABLE 1: Slump Test Apparatus & Their Remarks

INDEX APPARATUS REMARKS

1 Slump Cone Heavy Gauge sheet steel, 4” top
diameter, 8” bottom diameter, 12”
height
2 Inspection Scale Machine steel, 0-10 cm slump
measurement, 1 cm increment
3 Base Plate Steel sheet, carrying handle, 600mm
x 600mm x 5mm
4 Scoop Cast Aluminum
5 Trowel Pointed Type
6 Brush Steel wire
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 7 Tamping Rod Machine Steel, galvanized 16mm
diameter, 600 mm length

D. COMPACTING FACTOR TEST- TEST FOR WORKABILITY

1. OBJECTIVE
To measure the workability of a sample from a batch of fresh concrete
(As recommended by BS 1881: Part 103:1983)

2. THEORY
A concrete mix should be workable enough so that it would be compacted
well. Good compaction is necessary in order to expel air voids in a fresh
concrete mix. The presence of voids in concrete greatly reduces its strength.
Five per cent of voids can results in a drop of strength of more than
10per cent.

The compacting factor is defined as the ratio of the weight or partially compacted
concrete to the weight of fully compacted concrete and is normally stated to the nearest
second decimal place.
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 Compacting factor = mass of partially compacted concrete

mass of fully compacted concrete

3 APPARATUS
The compacting factor test consist of two conical hoppers and a cylindrical
container mounted vertically above one another (the size of apparatus is as
describe in BS 1881: Part 103 (1983),a hand scoop, a steel trowel and a 16mm
diameter and 600mm long tampingrod.

4 PROCEDURE

a. Clean the apparatus from any superfluous moisture.

b. Weight the empty cylinder and record down the mass in gram.
c. Fasten the hopper trap door with the catches. Fix the cylinder on the base of the
apparatus. Cover the cylinder top with two steel trowels.
d. Gently fill the top hopper with concrete sample by using a hand scoop until full. Do
not level off or tamp or compact.
e. Open the trap door of the top hopper, allowing the concrete to fall into the second
hopper. Make sure that no concrete sticks in the top hopper.
f. Remove steel trowel from the top cylinder, release trap door of the lower hopper,
allowing the concrete to fall into the cylinder.
g. Level the top of the cylinder and remove spillage from outside the cylinder.
h. Weigh the cylinder with the partially compacted concrete. Record down the mass in
gram.
i. Take out the concrete from the cylinder. Refill the cylinder with the same concrete in
layer approximately 50mm deep.
j. Compact each layer by using a tamping rod for 35strokes (a mechanical vibrator can
also be used)
k. Level off the top, clean away spillage and weigh the mould with fully compacted
concrete. Note the mass in gram.

5 PRECAUTIONS

a. Test should be carried out on a level surface or ground.

b. The hopper and cylinder must be thoroughly clean and dry.
c. If concrete sticks within the hoppers, push the concrete gently by using a tamping rod
d. The outside of the cylinder must be wiped clean before weighing.
e. The test can be carried out within a period of 2hours from addition of water to the
mix.

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 FIGURE 1: Compacting Factor Testing Apparatus

E. VEE BEE CONSISTOMETER TEST

1. OBJECTIVE
The method of the test covers the procedures for measuring indirectly the
workability of concrete and also for determining in consistency of very dry
mixes. Covered by BS 1881: Part 104 1983.

2. APPARATUS
Vibrating table, a metal pot, a sheet metal cone and standard iron rod.

3. PROCEDURE
a. Placing the slump cone inside the sheet metal cylindrical pot of the
consistometer.
b. Turn the attached glass disc to the swivel arm and place on the top of the
concrete in the pot.
c. Switch on the electric vibrator and simultaneously start a stop watch.
d. The time of vibrator is taken till conical shape disappear and the concrete
assumes cylindrical shape.

FIGURE 1: VEE-BEE CONSISTOMETER

F. MAKING AND CURING CUBES AND TEST BEAMS

1. OBJECTIVE

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 To cast and cure test cubes and test beams of 150mm standard sizes of a given mix (as
recommended by BS 1881: Part 111:1983).

2. APPARATUS
150mm x 150mm x 150mm internal size of steel mould for the test cubes, 150mm x
750mm steel moulds for the test beams, a 300mm long steel tamping bar with a rimming
face 25mm square and a steel trowel.

3. PROCEDURE
a. Brush the inner faces of moulds with oil and tighten the screws.
b. Fill the mould with concrete sample in layers of 50mm deep approximately.
c. Tamp each layer with the square face steel tamping bar 25times for test cube and
175 times for test beam. Make sure each tamping passes through of each layer.
d. After the top layer has been tamped, the surface of the concrete is struck off level
with the top off the mould with a trowel.
e. Using a nail mark the top surface of the concrete test cube to indicate number and
date of casting.
f. Cover the moulds with polythene sheet or damp cloth to prevent evaporation and
keep in the curing room for 24hours.
g. After 24hours the concrete specimen should be removed from the moulds and
stored in the curing tank until they are to be tested at a temperature of 20+ 5 C.
h. Preferred ages for test are 7days and 28days.
i. At least 2 specimen are made for each mix.

4. PRECAUTIONS
a. The fresh concrete samples should be tested for workability before casting.
b. Test specimen should be made as soon as possible after concrete is mixed.
c. The specimen in the mould should not be moved within the first few hours after
casting as this may lead to segregation and excessive bleeding of the concrete.
d. If there is no curing room, place the specimen in the mould in the laboratory which
will be free from vibration.

G. COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH TEST CUBES – TEST FOR STRENGTH

1. OBJECTIVE
To determine the compressive strength (crushing strength) of concrete according to BS
1881: Part 116:1983.

2. THEORY
One of the most important properties of concrete is its strength in compression. The
strength in compression has a definite relationship with all other properties of concrete.
The other properties are improved with the improvement in compressive strength.

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 The compressive strength is taken as the maximum compressive load it can be carry per
unit area. Compressive strength tests for concrete with maximum size of aggregate up
to 40mm are usually conducted on 150mm cubes.

3. APPARATUS
Compression Testing Machine (it complies with the requirement of BS 1610).
4. PROCEDURE
a. Remove the specimen from curing tank and wipe surface water and grit off the
specimen.
b. Weight each specimen to the nearest kg.
c. Clean the top and lower platens of the testing machine. Carefully center the cube
on the lower platen and ensure that the load will be applied to two opposite cast
faces of the cube.
d. Without shock, apply and increase the load continuously at a nominal rate within
the range 0.2N/mm2s to 0.4 N/mm2 until no greater load can be sustained. Record
the maximum load applied to the cube.
e. Note the type of failure and appearance of cracks.
f. Calculate the compressive strength of each cube by dividing the maximum load
by the cross sectional area. Express the results to the nearest 0.5 N/mm2.

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PROJECT/GROUP : LOCATION :

DESCRIPTION : DATE TEST : W/C :

CONCRETE : SLUMP TEST: Job No:

COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH RESULT

Marking Date Age Dimension Weight Weight/Vol Fail Strength

Cast Days (mm) (kg) kg/m3 load N/mm2
(KN) crushing

Tested by …………………………. Checked by …………………………

Date …………………………. Date ………………………...

Remarks:

………………………………………………………………………………………………………

……………………………………………………………………………………………………....

………………………………………………………………………………………………………

H. REBOUND HAMMER TEST (SURFACE HARDNESS TEST)

1. OBJECTIVE
Rebound Hammer test is basically a surface hardness which provide
information on the quality of the surface layer (about 20mm deep) of the

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 concrete only. It is unlikely that 95% confidence limits on the estimation of the in-situ
strength of concrete will be better than + 25% under ideal conditions. Reference Standard: BS
1881 Pt 202 1986.

2. APPARATUS
Rebound Hammer, Testing anvil and Carborundum stone.

3. PROCEDURE
a. By lightly pressing on the head of the impact plunger, the plunger is released and
will slide out of the housing by itself.
b. The plunger is pressed against the spot of the concrete surface to be tested. Just
before it disappears completely in the housing the hammer is released. Release
must be effected by slowly increasing the pressure on the housing. At the
moment of impact the hammer must be held exactly at right angle to the surface.
Do not touch the push button
c. After the impact hammer mass rebounds by a certain amount which is indicated
on the display. The reading on the display gives the rebound value in N/mm2
d. By simply removing the hammer from the spot tested, it is reset for a
further test and at the same time the indication is cancelled.

FIGURE 1 : Rebound Hammer

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I. ULTRASONIC PULSE VELOCITY TEST (UPV)

1. OBJECTIVE
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 The UPV test is designed to study the quality of the concrete in existing
structures. It can also can be used to determine the dynamic modulus of
elasticity, dynamic Poisson’s ratio, homogenity, estimated compression
strength, depth of crack, thickness of damaged layers and density of concrete. Fire
damaged structures can also be assessed using this nondestructive testing technique. Test done
using the UPV test technique conforms to BS1881: Part 201:1986 “Non-Destructive” methods
of test for concrete measurement of the velocity of ultrasonic pulses in concrete.

2. APPARATUS
A pulse of longitudinal vibrations is generated by an electro-acoustical
transducer (transmitter) and received by a similar receiver which is placed on the
opposite side of the concrete member under test. The time taken (transmit time) for the pulse
of vibration to travel between the transmitter and receiver when divided by the transmit time t
gives the pulse velocity, V = L/t.

FIGURE 1: Schematic Diagram

3. PROCEDURE
a. Labeled the faces of the concrete cube with A,B,C,D,E and F
b. Make sure that A and B are place on the opposite faces.
c. The same rule applies to C,D,E and F
d. Use of a coupling gel between the transducer and the concrete cubes or structures.
e. The transmitting and receiving transducers are placed on opposite surfaces of the
concrete cube.
f. Push the transmitting and receiving transducers as strong as possible.
g. Take the lowest reading measured by UPV device

4. METHOD
The equipment (PUNDIT) used to determine the Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity in concrete
consists of a transducer, receiver and the Main Control Unit. Different arrangements to
determine ultrasonic pulse velocities are possible when testing concrete members for quality.
Depth of cracks in test members can be determined by placing the transducers across the crack
as shown in figure below.

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 Direct Transmission Semi-Direct Transmission

Indirect Transmission Measuring Crack Depth

FIGURE 2: Determine Ultrasonic Pulse Velocities

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J. SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE & COARSE AGGREGATES

1. OBJECTIVE
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 This test method cover the determinations of the particle size distribution of fine and
coarse aggregates by sieving. A weighed sample of dry aggregate is separated through a
series of sieves of progressively smaller openings for determination of particle size
distribution. Covered by BS812: Part 103:1985

2. APPARATUS
Scale (or balance) – 0.1g accuracy for fine sieve analysis, 0.5g accuracy for
coarse sieve analysis, Sieves, Mechanical Sieve Shaker,
Drying Oven (110 +/- 5C).

3. PROCEDURE
a. Dry sample to constant weight at a temperature of 110 +/- 5C (230 +/- 9F).
b. Select suitable sieve size to obtain the required information as specified. The
following sieves are applicable with reference to ASTM C33:

Coarse Aggregate (in) Fine Aggregate (in)

1.5 No. 4
1 No. 8
¾ No. 16
½ No. 30
3/8 No. 50
No. 4 No. 100
No. 8 No. 200
No. 16 Pan
Pan

TABLE 2: Size of Sieve Stack for Coarse & Fine Aggregate

c. Nest the sieves in order of decreasing size of opening from the top to bottom. Place
the pan below the bottom sieve. Place the sample on the top sieve. Place lid over
top sieve.
d. Agitate the sieves by hand or by mechanical apparatus for a sufficient period such
that not more than 1% by weight of the residue on any individual sieve will pass
that sieve during 1 minute of additional hand sieving. Ten minutes of original
sieving will usually accomplish this criteria.
e. Determine the weight of material retained on each sieve. The total retained weights
should closely match the original weight of the sample (within 0.3%).
4. CALCULATIONS
a. Calculate percentages passing and total percentage retained to nearest 0.1% of the
initial dry weight of the sample.
b. Calculate the fine ness modulus as follow:

Fine Aggregate:
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F.M = {∑ (Cumulative % Retained on # 4, 8, 16, 30, 50, and 100 sieves)}/100

Coarse Aggregate:
F.M = {∑ (Cumulative % Retained on 1-1/2, ¾, 3/8, Nos. 4, 8, 16, 30, 50, and 100
sieves)}/100

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K. AGGREGATE IMPACT VALUE TEST (AIV)

1. OBJECTIVE
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 The method of the test covers the procedures for determining the aggregate
impact value of course aggregate. 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.

2. APPARATUS
Aggregate impact testing machine consist of a circular base over which 2
vertical guides stand. The hammer which is provided with a locking
arrangement can be raised to fall freely down the vertical guides. The height of fall can
be adjusted through 300mm + 5mm. Supplied complete with a metal measure 75mm dia x
50mm deep and tamping rod 230mm long and 10mm dia.

3. PREPARATION OF TEST SAMPLE

a. The test sample shall consist of aggregate the whole of which passes a 12.5mm
standard sieve and is retained on a 10mm standard sieve. The aggregate comprising the
test sample shall be dried in an oven for a period of 4 hours at a temperature of 100C –
110C and cooled.

b. The cylindrical steel measure shall be filled about 1/3 rd full with the aggregate
and tamped with 25 strokes of the rounded end of tamping
rod. A further similar quantity of aggregate shall be added and a further tamping of
25 strokes given. The measure shall finally be filled to over flowing, tamped 25
times and the surplus aggregate struck off, using the tamping rod as a straight edge.
The net weight of the aggregate in the measure shall determined to the nearest
gram (Call it weight A) and this weight of a aggregate shall be used for the
duplicate test on the same material.

4. PROCEDURE
a. 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 column are vertical.
b. 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
taping of 25 strokes of the tamping rod.
c. The hammer shall be raised until its lower face to 380mm above the upper surface
of the aggregate in the cup and allow 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 1 second.
d. The crushed aggregate shall then be removed from the cup and the whole of it sieved
on the 2.36mm standard sieve until no further significant amount passes in 1 minute.
The fraction passing the sieve shall be weighted to an accuracy of 0.1g (call it weight
B). The fraction retained on the sieve also be weighted (call it weight C) and it the
total weight (B+C) is less than the initial weight (weight A) by more than 1 gram,
the result shall be discarded a fresh test made. Two tests shall be made.

5. CALCULATION
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 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.

B
Aggregate Impact Value = x 100
A

The mean of the two result shall be reported to the nearest whole
number as the aggregate impact value of the tested material

L. SILT TEST
1. OBJECTIVE
This test method covers the determination of the drag particle contained in a sand
sample.

2. APPARATUS
Measuring Cylinder of 250ml, salt water, and sand sample.

3. PROCEDURE
a. Take 50ml of salt water using measuring cylinder of 250ml.
b. Add a sample of sand in the cylinder until water level reach 100ml. Then add salt water
till the water level is 150ml.
c. Close the top of measuring cylinder with hand and shake the content for a while. Then,
let the mixture dissolve for 3 hours.
d. After 3 hours, measure the height of dregs and sand level. Measure the dregs obtain
using the given formula:

Height of Dregs
Dregs obtain = x 100%
Height of sand

M. BLAINE AIR PERMEABILITY

1. OBJECTIVE
This test method cover the determination of the fineness of hydraulic cement, using the
Blaine air permeability apparatus, in term of the specific surface expressed as total surface
area in square meters per kilogram of cement. The Blaine apparatus draw a defined volume of
air through a prepared bed of cement defined porosity. Covered by BS: 4359 Part ɪɪ.

2. APPARATUS
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 Blaine air permeability apparatus – Consists of a manometer, a stainless steel
permeability cell, a perforated metal disk, and a stainless steel plunger.

Balance – 0.001g resolution.

Timer – 0.5 s resolution.

3. PROCEDURE
a. Place approximately 4 oz of cement in a small covered jar or tin container. Shake
vigorously for 2 minutes to fluff the cement and break up lumps and agglomerates.
Allow the covered container to stand for 2 minutes, then remove the cover and stir
gently to homogenize the sample.
b. Weigh out the cement to nearest 0.001g. the weight of sample shall be determined as
follow: W= ρV(1-n).
c. Where ρ is the density of the cement (3.15g/cm³), n is a standard porosity of the bed
(0.5) and V is the total volume of the cement bed determined by calibration (see ASTM
for calibration procedure using NIST SRM No. 114). Prior calibration has established
that is volume is : V= 1.8372 cm³.
d. Gently seat the perforated metal dick in the permeability cell on the ledge at the bottom
of the cell using a rod having a diameter slightly smaller than that of the cell. Place a
filter paper on the metal disk and press the edges down with the same rod.
e. Place the cement in the cell on top of the first filter paper. Tap the side of the cell lightly
in order to level the bed of cement. Place a second filter paper on this bed of cement.
f. Compress the cement with the plunger until the plunger collar contacts the top of the
cell. Slowly withdraw the plunger a short distance, rotate the plunger 90°, and compress
the cement a second time until the collar contact the top of the cell. Slowly remove the
plunger. Note that fresh filter papers must be used for each determination.
g. Attach the permeability cell to the manometer tube (use a little stopcock grease to
ensure an airtight connection).
h. Slowly evacuate the air in the right arm of the manometer using the pressure bulb until
the liquid reaches the top mark, and close the manometer valve. The liquid will start to
slowly lower because of airflow through the cement sample into the manometer.
i. Start the timer when the bottom of the meniscus of the liquid reaches the third mark
(next to the bottom mark). Record this time, T, to the nearest 1 second.

4. CALCULATION
a. Calculate the specific surface values in accordance with the following
equation:

Ss T
S=
Ts
Where T is the measured time interval of the manometer drop for the
Test sample, Ss is the specific surface area of the standard reference material (NIST
SRM #114), and Ts is the measured time interval of the manometer drop for SRM. This
equation is valid for cement test performed at the same temperature as the standard reference

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test, and at the same porosity (n = 0.5). Prior calibration has established that these SRM value
are as follows:
Ss = 377.4m²/kg, and
Ts = 92.2 s

FIGURE 1 : The Blaine Air Permeability Apparatus

N. NORMAL CONSISTENCY OF HYDRAULIC CEMENT -VICAT APPARATUS
1. OBJECTIVE
To determine the normal consistency of hydraulic cement to ensure that the
cement is of the desired quality and that it conforms to the requirements of
the relevant standards. This test method is intended to be used to determine
the amount of water required to prepare hydraulic cement pastes for testing.

2. APPARATUS
a. Balance – Sensitive to 0.1 percent of the weight of the sample being
tested.
b. Glass Graduate 200 - ml capacity, for measuring mixing water.
c. Vicat Apparatus - The vicat apparatus, consist of a frame item A,
bearing a movable rod item B weighing about
300grams, one end item C the plunger end, being 10mm in
diameter for a distance of at least 50mm, and the other end having a removable needle
D, 1mm in diameter and 50mm in length.
- Rod B is reversible and can be held in any desired position
by a set screw E, and has an adjustable indicator F, which moves
over a scale that is graduated in millimeters and is attached to fram
A.
- Rod B is made of stainless steel having a hardness of not less
than 3 HRC, and is straight with the plunger end which is
perpendicular to the rod axis.
3. PROCEDURE
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 a. Measure out 500g. of fresh cement, and add an accurately measured
amount of water (for first trial use 150ml, adjust with further testing).
b. Thoroughly mix the cement and water together taking as little time as
possible producing the approximate shape of a ball with glove hands.
c. Then toss six times through a free path of about 6 inches from one hand to other so
as to produce a nearly spherical mass that may be easily
inserted into the vicat ring with minimum amount of additional
manipulation.
d. Press the ball, resting in the palm of one hand, into the larger end of the conical ring
G, held in the other hand, completely filling the ring with paste. Remove the excess
at the larger end by a single movement of palm of the hand. Place the ring on its
larger end on the base plate H,
and slice off the excess paste at the smaller end at the top of the ring by the single
oblique stroke of a sharp – edge trowel held at a light angle
with the top of the ring, and smooth the top, if necessary, with a few
light touches of the pointed end of the trowel.
e. During these operations of cutting and smoothing, take care not to
compress the paste.

4. CONSISTENCY DETERMINATION

a. Center the paste confined in the ring, resting on the plate, under the rod B, which is
the plunger end C, which shall be brought in contact with the surface of the paste,
followed by the tightening of the set-screw E.
b. Next set the movable indicator F to the upper zero mark of the scale, or take an initial
reading, and release the rod immediately. This must not exceed 30 seconds after
completion of mixing. The apparatus shall be free of all vibrations during the test.
c. Make trial pastes with varying percentages of water until the normal consistency is
obtained. Make each trial with fresh cement.
d. Repeat the entire procedure four to five times, each time using the fresh cement, and
the corrected amount of water so that normal consistency may be attained. The cement
paste is of normal consistency when the rod settles to a point 10 ≤ 1 mm below the
original surface in 30 seconds after being released.
e. Calculate the amount the water required for normal water consistency to the nearest
0.1 percent and report to the nearest 0.5 percent of weight of the dry cement. If normal
consistency is not attained in five trials, plot experiment data obtained specifically,
penetration verses volume of water used, one such example is shown on the enclosed
graph below. From the graph constructed interpolate to obtain what volume of water
would give the 10mm required penetration. Note do not copy or use the graph shown,
it is only presented for information only.

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 FIGURE 1 : VICAT APPARATUS

O. LE CHATELIER (SOUNDNESS TEST)

1. OBJECTIVE
The main purpose of the soundness test is to assess the possible risk of the late expansion
due to hydration of uncombined calcium oxide and magnesium oxide. For this purpose
report the mean difference C-A.

2. APPARATUS
Le Chatelier Apparatus, Water Bath.

3. PROCEDURE
a. Carry out the simultaneously on two specimens from the same batch of
cement paste.
b. Prepare a cement paste of standard consistence. Place a lightly oil Le Chatelier mould
on the lightly oiled base plate and fill it immediately without undue compaction or
vibration using only the hands and straight edged implement, if desired to level the
top surface. During filling prevent the split in the mould from accidentally opening
e.g. by gentle pressure with the fingers of by typing or by use of a suitable rubber
band.
c. Cover the mould with the lightly oiled cover plate, add the additional
mass, if necessary. Maintain it for (24±0.5) h at (20±1) C and not less
than 98% relative humidity.
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 d. At the end of the (24±0.5) h period measure the distance (A) between the
indicators points to the nearest 0.5mm.
e. Then heat the mould gradually to boiling during (30±5) min and maintain
the water bath at boiling temperature for 3hours ± 5min.
f. At the end of the boiling period the distance (B) between the indicator
points maybe measured to nearest 0.5mm.
g. Allow the mould to cool to (20 ± 2) C. Measure the distance (C) between the
indicator points to nearest 0.5mm.
h. For each specimen, record the measurement A and C and calculate the difference C
– A to nearest 0.5mm.

FIGURE 1 : LE CHATELIER APPARATUS

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