1

CONSTRUCTION
MATERIALS AND
TESTING

The course deals with the physical properties of common construction

materials primarily metals, plastics, wood, concrete, coarse and fine
aggregates, asphalt and synthetic materials; examination of material
properties with respect to design and use of end product, design and control
of aggregates, concrete and asphalt mixtures, principle of testing;
characteristics of test; properties of materials and materials testing
equipment.

2
 PREFACE

The course deals with the physical properties of common construction materials primarily metals,
plastics, wood, concrete, coarse and fine aggregates, asphalt and synthetic materials; examination of
material properties with respect to design and use of end product, design and control of aggregates,
concrete and asphalt mixtures, principle of testing; characteristics of test; properties of materials and
materials testing equipment.
This laboratory manual consists of selected number of experiments that fits and avail the existing
and newly arrived apparatus. In each experiment, its objective and scope is given first, it is followed by
materials and apparatus to be used as well as the procedure in each experiment. The experiment ends
with the student’s written report containing their data, results obtained and their observations and
recommendations following the format cited in this laboratory manual. It is important that all the
information necessary to complete the lab report is obtained before students leave the lab.
The materials were a compilation from the following authors: Engr. Edwin Ronquillo, Braja M. Das,
David McCarty used as reference.
Sincere gratitude goes to Ronnie Dungca, CE-Lab Custodian, Engr. Carolina Dungca, Chairman of
Civil Engineering Department, Dr. Doris Bacamante, Dean, College of Engineering and Architecture.

3
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
PAGE
Safety Guidelines 01:
SAFETY ORIENTATION PROGRAM 5
Safety Guidelines 02:
FIRE PROTECTION AND FIRE EXTINGUISHERS 7
Laboratory Exercise No. 1
INSPECTION OF THE MATERIALS AND TESTING LABORATORY 8
Laboratory Exercise No. 2
STUDY ON THE TESTING MACHINES 9
Laboratory Exercise No. 3
TESTING OF REINFORCING STEEL BARS 13
Laboratory Exercise No. 4
TESTING OF PORTLAND CEMENT 16
Laboratory Exercise No. 4-A
FINENESS OF CEMENT 18
Laboratory Exercise No. 4-B
NORMAL CONSISTENCY OF CEMENT 20
Laboratory Exercise No. 4-C
TIME OF SETTING OF CEMENT 22
Laboratory Exercise No. 4-D
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF CEMENT 24
Laboratory Experiment No. 5-A
REDUCING FIELD SAMPLES OF AGGREGATES TO TESTING SIZE 26
Laboratory Experiment No. 5-B
UNIT WEIGHT DETERMINATION OF AGGREGATES 27
Laboratory Experiment No. 5-C
SPECIFIC GRAVITY, ABSORPTION AND TOTAL MOISTURE
CONTENT DETERMINATION TEST OF FINE AND COARSE AGGREGATES 29
Laboratory Experiment No. 5-D
SIEVE ANALYSIS OF AGGREGATES 32
Laboratory Experiment No. 5-E
ABRASION TEST OF COARSE AGGREGATE 34
Laboratory Exercise No. 6-A
CONCRETE MIX PREPARATION AND CURING SPECIMENS 36
Laboratory Exercise No. 6-B
PREPARATION AND COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH TEST OF CYLINDRICAL CONCRETE SPECIMENS 38
Laboratory Exercise No. 6-C
PREPARATION AND FLEXURE TEST OF CONCRETE BEAM SPECIMENS 40
Laboratory Exercise No. 7
TESTING OF ASPHALT (BITUMINOUS MIXTURES) 43
Laboratory Exercise No. 7-A
DETERMINATION OF BITUMEN CONTENT FROM BITUMINOUS MIXTURES BY EXTRACTION 44
Laboratory Exercise No. 7-B
MARSHALL TEST OF BITUMINOUS MIXES 47
Laboratory Exercise No. 8-A
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF CONCRETE HOLLOW BLOCK 53

4
SAFETY GUIDELINES 01:
SAFETY ORIENTATION PROGRAM
Laboratory : _____________________ Date Performed : ______________________
Faculty In-charge : _____________________ Section/Schedule : ______________________

Objective
1. To implement information to students a safe working laboratory area.
2. To popularize consciousness of emergency equipment (e.g. fire extinguisher) and urgency exits.
3. To provide general laboratory guidelines for students to serve as their common reference with
regards to safety.

CEA – CE Lab Safety Do's and Dont's for Students

Life threatening injuries can happen in the laboratory. For that reason, students need to be
informed of the correct way to act and things to do in the laboratory. The following is a safety checklist
that can be used as a handout to students to acquaint them with the safety do’s and don’ts in the
laboratory.
Conduct
Do not engage in practical jokes or boisterous conduct in the laboratory.
Never run in the laboratory.
The use of personal audio or video equipment is prohibited in the laboratory.
The performance of unauthorized experiments is strictly forbidden.
Do not sit on laboratory benches.
General Work Procedure
Know emergency procedures.
Never work in the laboratory without the supervision of a faculty in-charge.
Always perform the experiments or work precisely as directed by the in-charge faculty.
Immediately report any spills, accidents, or injuries to the faculty in-charge.
Never leave experiments while in progress.
Never attempt to catch a falling object.
Be careful when handling hot glassware and apparatus in the laboratory. Hot glassware looks just like
cold glassware.
Turn off all heating apparatus, gas valves, and water faucets when not in use.
Do not remove any equipment or chemicals from the laboratory.
Coats, bags, and other personal items must be stored in designated areas, not on the bench tops or in
the aisle ways.
Keep the floor clear of all objects (e.g., small objects, spilled liquids).
Housekeeping
Keep work area neat and free of any unnecessary objects.
Thoroughly clean your laboratory work space at the end of the laboratory session.
Do not block the sink drains with debris.
Never block access to exits or emergency equipment.
Inspect all equipment for damage (cracks, defects, etc.) prior to use; do not use damaged equipment.
Never pour chemical waste into the sink drains or wastebaskets.
Place chemical waste in appropriately labeled waste containers.
Properly dispose of broken glassware and other sharp objects immediately in designated containers.
Properly dispose of weigh boats, gloves, filter paper, and paper towels in the laboratory.

5
Apparel in the Laboratory
Wear disposable gloves, as provided in the laboratory, when handling hazardous materials. Remove
the gloves before exiting the laboratory.
Wear a full-length, long-sleeved laboratory coat or chemical-resistant apron.
Wear shoes that adequately cover the whole foot; low-heeled shoes with non-slip soles are
preferable. Do not wear sandals, open-toed shoes, open-backed shoes, or high-heeled shoes in the
laboratory.
Avoid wearing shirts exposing the torso, shorts, or short skirts; long pants that completely cover the
legs are preferable.
Secure long hair and loose clothing (especially loose long sleeves, neck ties, or scarves).
Remove jewelry (especially dangling jewelry).

Hygiene Practices
Keep your hands away from your face, eyes, mouth, and body while using chemicals.
Food and drink, open or closed, should never be brought into the laboratory or chemical storage area.
Never use laboratory glassware for eating or drinking purposes.
Do not apply cosmetics while in the laboratory or storage area.
Wash hands after removing gloves, and before leaving the laboratory.
Remove any protective equipment (i.e., gloves, lab coat or apron, chemical splash goggles) before
leaving the laboratory.

Emergency Procedure
Know the location of all the exits in the laboratory and building.
Know the location of the emergency phone.
Know the location of and know how to operate the following:

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SAFETY GUIDELINES 02:
FIRE PROTECTION AND FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

First-aid kits
In case of an emergency or accident, follow the established emergency plan as explained by the
faculty in-charge and evacuate the building via the nearest exit.

1. Discussion on the appropriate use of Fire Extinguishers ( see below)

P A S S

2. Discussion of Emergency Resources

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LABORATORY EXERCISE NO. 1
INSPECTION OF THE MATERIALS AND TESTING LABORATORY
LAB EXERCISE NO.: 1
TITLE: INSPECTION OF THE MATERIALS AND TESTING LABORATORY
OBJECT: To become acquainted with the materials testing laboratory, the equipment available and the
requirements of the course.

PROCEDURE:
1. Visit the CE Laboratory and notice where the general Materials Testing equipment are located. Make a
floor plan.
2. Make a list of the major types of equipment available. Note the units of calibration and the dial divisions.
3. Ask or research on the use of these major equipment.
4. Write an informal report that includes:
a. A guide to the laboratory, with the major features indicated on a sketch/floor plan.
b. A brief description of each major testing machine apparatus. This should include the units of
calibration.
c. An assessment of the role of the course in your education.

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LABORATORY EXERCISE NO. 2
STUDY ON THE TESTING MACHINES
INTRODUCTION
An important phase in the study of engineering materials is the determination of strength and
other mechanical properties. Such properties are measured quantitatively by use of testing machines. If
precise results are necessary, it is therefore important to learn the operation, capacity and the limitations
of the testing machine.
The significant tests performed on engineering materials are tension, compression and flexure.
These three tests can be done in a universal testing machine, thus the designation universal.

OBJECTIVE:
To study the operation of universal testing machine with hydraulic loading and weighing system;
how the loads for the different tests applied and how the loads are measured.

APPARATUS:
A universal Testing Machine and its accessories.
Compression machine.

PROCEDURE:
1. The main parts of the testing machine will be indicated to the class, then the operation will be explained.
2. Compression and tension tests will be demonstrated. The dimensions of the specimen shall be
measured prior to testing.
3. The force at the breaking point of the specimen shall be determined.
4. The compressive and tensile stresses of the specimen shall be calculated/recorded.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
The Universal Testing Machine consist of two essential parts: a means for loading specimens in
compression and also in tension, and a method of observing the applied load. A large variety of tests
are possible with a UTM with suitable accessories. The following are some of the more common tests:
Tensile Force Tests:
 Tensile Strength
 Modulus of Elasticity
 Elongation
Compression Force Tests
 Compression of Ductile and Brittle Metals
 Compression of Ceramics and Concrete
 Brinell Hardness Testing
 Shear Strength
 Beam Strength and Deflections
 Column Strength
 Guided Bend Weld Strength

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SET-UP AND GENERAL OPERATION
For the most of the test possible with the machine, the operation is much the same. In a typical
test, the appropriate test fixture or specimen-holding accessory is placed in either the tensile or the
compression space and specimen is inserted.

THE ELCTROMECHANICAL UNIVERSAL TESTING MACHINE

The Electromechanical Universal Testing Machine consists of a robust four column frame with a
lower platen/gripper which is moved via endless ball screw drive powered by a DC house grippers, platens
or other accessories for various tests. The machine has a 200 kN load call for load measurement, a linear
displacement transducer for displacement measurement and a digital display, and a potentiometer for
speed setting.
The machine is controlled by the PA/ADTR-2 program that is designed to automatically performs
compression and tensile tests. For the tensile test, calculations include the maximum force and tension
reached, the elastic limit, the Agt or deformation under maximum load, the maximum load/elastic limit
ratio, among others.
Ensure that the red mushroom button (to the right of the machine) is disengaged. Switch the
machine on. Make sure also that the machine is interfaced with the computer and all necessary
accessories are attached.

SAFETY:
Safe working practices should be observed at all times when using the equipment. Only qualified
and trained personnel should be entrusted to use the equipment. The machine is equipped with the
following safety devices:
 Electrical cut-out at full scale
 Permanent travel limit switch
 Moving travel limit switch

DOING TESTS:
1. Select the sample to be tested with the appropriate button.
2. Indicate the sample area to be tested.
3. Indicate the base length of the area that is going to be measured.
4. Fill the user fields that are necessary for the specific data of the sample.
5. Place the specimen manually in the appropriate position to be able to clip the sample to be tested and
hold it with the clamps.
6. Click with the mouse the first button on the left to start the test. If it is a control module that permits
this, the program will then select the speed the test will be made at which is transmitted immediately.
7. The program will now start to plot the graph until the sample breaks or until the test button is pressed
again or when ESC key is pressed.
8. After the test is finished, the program calculates the test results and shows them in the area on the
right of the main window. The test is stored in the disk at the same time for later retrieval.

THE COMPRESSION TESTING MACHINE

The machine is built to conduct compression on concrete cylinders of up to 150 mm Ø and flexural
test on concrete beams. Its platens are surface hardened and ground. The upper one spherically seated.
and the lower one has inscribed markings to facilitate centering of the specimen.
Stress measurement is via a microprocessor digital readout unit DIGIMAX III 48. The apparatus
comprises a CPU, a built in conditioning unit and 24 column printer. The front panel comprises a
membrane keyboard with function keys and 8 characters LCD display.

10
OPERATING INSTRUCTION:

1. Set the vertical daylight of the machine by placing the distance pieces under the lower platen in order
to obtain a vertical daylight of 10-15 mm higher than the specimen to be tested.
2. Switch on the DIGIMAX.
3. Place and center the specimen on the compression platen.
4. Set up the first flow control valve to apply the correct rate of loading. Move the lever A upward and
lever B backward. Lever a control the load (upward) or unload (downward) of the machine. Lever B
when closed (forward) control the flow of oil.
5. Press button ENTER. The display shows the last set surface value in mm 2. Accept this value or input
new surface area. The display shows +0.0.
6. Switch the pump and zero the value, which appear on the load display while the piston is going up but
before the beginning of compression.
7. When the load does not increase anymore, the display shows the maximum load that has been reached
followed by a flashing * indicating the end of the test.
8. Immediately switch off the motor.
9. Press button "FEED/PRINT" for hardcopy of the result.

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DATA:

LAB. EXERCISE NO: NAME:

TITLE: CLASS CODE:
DATE PERFORMED: GROUP NO:
DATE SUBMITTED: RATING:

SAMPLE TEST TENSION COMPRESSION

1. Length of specimen, mm

2. Cross-sectional area of
specimen, mm2
3. Reading at breaking point, P2,
N/mm2

4. Initial reading, N/mm2

5. Correct gage reading at

breaking point (3-4), PR, N/mm2

6. Stress, N/mm2 or MPa

7. Stress, kg/cm2

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LABORATORY EXERCISE NO. 3
TESTING OF REINFORCING STEEL BARS
INTRODUCTION
Steel is one of the most widely used engineering material. One very important engineering use
of steel is in the form of bars for concrete reinforcements. The two main classes
of steel bars are plain and deformed and these are further classified into three grades: structural,
intermediate and hard. The standard sizes of deformed bars are listed in Table 3-1. The standard size of
plain bars are designated by their nominal diameters.
The important tests are done on billet-steel bars: chemical, cold-bend and tension tests. The
chemical test is for determining the phosphorous content and the cold-bend and tensile test for checking
the mechanical characteristics.
in this laboratory exercise, only the tensile test will be done. This tensile test furnishes the yield
and tensile strengths of the steel bars, and is used to classify the bars into grades. Percentage elongation
is calculated and compared with the requirement for each grade (refer to Table 3-2)

OBJECTIVE:
1. To determine the suitability of reinforcing steel bars for concrete reinforcement by performance of the
physical test.
2. To determine the grade of the steel bars.

APPARATUS:
UTM Balance
Tensile grip Vernier Caliper
Extensometer

PROCEDURE:
Two approximately 16" long samples are needed for the test.

TEST FOR TENSILE PROPERTIES:

1. Measure accurately the length of the tension sample and determine its weight. Determine the actual
cross-section of deformed bars by dividing the weight per linear inch by 0.2833 (weight in lbs per cu.
of steel).
2. Mark in the center of the test specimen an 8" gage length. If possible, machine the specimen to a
reduced section in the middle about 11". Set suitable grips in the testing machine to hold the specimen
and apply the load to failure at a uniform rate. If available, attach to the specimen an extensometer
for reading deformation.
3. Record the sudden halt red-hand pointer and compute the correspondng stress which will be yield
point. Calculate the tensile strength by dividing the maximum koad carried by the specimen.
4. After fracture, put together the ends of the specimen and measure accurately the distance between
gage marks.
5. Express the increase in length of the gage length as percentage of the original gage length of 8". The
value obtained shall be the percentage elongation.

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TABLE 3 - 1 DEFORMED BARS DESIGNATION

NOMINAL DIMENSIONS
DIAMETER CROSS-SECTIONAL AREA
BAR NO.
INCHES MM SQ. IN. SQ. MM.
2* 1/4 = 0.250 6 0.05 28.27
3 3/8 = 0.375 10 0.11 78.54
4 1/2 = 0.500 12 0.20 113.10
5 5/8 = 0.625 16 0.31 201.10
6 3/4 = 0.750 20 0.44 314.20
7 7/8 = 0.8751 22 0.6 280.13
8 1.000 25 0.79 490.87
9** 1 1/8 = 1.128 28 1.00 615.75
10** 1 1/4 = 1.270 32 1.27 804.25
11** 1 3/8 = 1.410 36 1.56 1,017.90

UNIT WEIGHT
BAR NO.
LB. PER FT. KG. PER METER
2* 0.167 0.222
3 0.376 0.616
4 0.668 0.887
5 1.043 1.577
6 4.502 2.463
7 2.044 2.980
8 2.670 3.848
9** 3.400 4.827
10** 4.303 6.305
11** 5.313 7.980

* 1/4 in. bar in plain round only

** Bar Nos. 9, 10, and 11 correspond to the former 1 in. sq., 1 1/8 in sq., and 1 1/4 in. sq. sizes and are
equivalent to those former standard bar sizes in weight and nominal cross-sectional areas.

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DATA:

LAB. EXERCISE NO: NAME:

TITLE: CLASS CODE:
DATE PERFORMED: GROUP NO:
DATE SUBMITTED: RATING:

Bar Sample No.

1 2

1 Type

2 Nominal Diameter, mm

3 Average Diameter, mm

4 Length, cm

5 Weight, gm

6 Tensile Load, kN

a. At Yield Point

b. At Break Point

7 Elongation, cm

a. Final Length

b. Gage Length

c. Change in Length

8 Area, mm2

a. Plain: (π/4)x(3)2

b. Deformed: (5)/[(4)x0.0785)]

9 Yield Point, MPa: 6a/8a or 8b

10 Tensile Strength, MPa: 7c/7b x 100%

15
LABORATORY EXERCISE NO. 4
TESTING OF PORTLAND CEMENT
INTRODUCTION:

Portland cement being the most important of all necessary materials in modern engineering
construction, is the basic binding material in concrete. It is defined as the product obtained by pulverizing
clinker which consists of argillaceous and calcareous materials. Such raw materials are mixed in exact
proportions and burnt to incipient fusion. The burnt product, called "clinker", is mixed with 2.5% to 5% of
gypsum and pulverized to form Portland Cement. Like all cements, Portland Cement possess one property
called hydraulicity which is ability to set and harden under water.

The argillaceous raw materials include clay, shale, slate and blast-furnace slag. These contribute
silica and alumina to the clinker. The calcareous materials include limestone, chalk, marl marine shells and
these contribute lime and magnesia to the clinker. Gypsum is added to regulate the setting time of the
cement.

Five major components are known to be present in Portland cement after calcination. These are
tricalcium silicate, dicalcium silicate, tricalcium aluminate, tetracalcium aluminoferite, and magnesia.
These compounds are normally present in the clinker in the form of extremely fine interlocking crystals.
Magnesia seems to exist uncombined in Portland Cement. It is nearly inert but if present inexcessive
amount it might cause unsoundness due to extremely slow hydration. Magnesia content should not
exceed 5%.

The initial set and much of the early strength of the cement is due to the tricalcium silicate. The
tricalcium silicate content and tricalcium aluminate indicate the strength attained by the cement up to 28
days. Dicalcium silicate, which hydrate slowly, is greatly responsible for the subsequent increase in
strength in the final hardening of the cement which may be prolonged over many months.

Five (5) types of Portland Cement

1. Type I - for general use when the special properties of the other types are not required.
2. Type II - for concrete construction exposed to moderate sulfate action or where moderate heat of
hydration is required.
3. Type III - for high early strength
4. Type IV - for low heat of hydration
5. Type V - for high sulfate resistance

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REQUIREMENTS FOR TYPE I PORTLAND CEMENT IN GOVERNMENT SPECIFICATION

PHYSICAL TESTS SPECIFICATIONS

FINENESS:
Specific Surface, sq.cm/gm 1600 minimum
Residue on #200 Sieve, % 10 maximum
% Fineness 90 minimum

TIME OF SETTING: GILMORE TEST 60 minimum

a. initial Set, minutes 10 maximum
b. Final Set, hours

SOUNDNESS: 0.50 maximum

Autoclave Expansion, % No sign of volume change
Pat Test

COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH, MORTAR CUBE, psi 1,200 minimum

1 day in moist air, 2 days in water 2,100 minimum
1 day in moist air, 6 days in water 3,500 minimum
1 day in moist air, 27 days in water

3.00 maximum
Lost on Ignition, % 0.75 maximum
Insoluble Residue, % 3.00 maximum
Sulfur Trioxide, % 5.00 maximum
Magnesium Oxide, % 0.50 maximum
Sodium and Potassium Oxide, %

17
LABORATORY EXERCISE NO. 4-A
TESTING OF PORTLAND CEMENT
TITLE: FINENESS OF CEMENT

OBJECTIVE: To determine the fineness of Portland Cement by using the No. 200 sieve.

APPARATUS:

Sieve No. 200

Sieve Cover
Sieve Pan
Digital Balance
Sieve Brush
Scoop

PROCEDURE:
1. Place a 50g sample of Portland Cement on the sieve No. 200 with pan and cover.
2. Start sieving and continue until the residue looks clean. this will take about 5 minutes.
3. Remove pan. Tap gently the sides of sieve to dislodge dust adhering to the sieve and brush the
underside of the sieve.
4. Continue sieving until no more than 0.05g passes through in one minute of continuous sieving.
5. Brush thoroughly both sides of sieve and get the weight of the residue.
6. Percent residue is

% Residue = x 100%

% Fineness = 100% - % Residue

where:
W2 = weight of residue
W1 = weight of original sample = 50g

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DATA:

LAB. EXERCISE NO: NAME:

TITLE: CLASS CODE:
DATE PERFORMED: GROUP NO:
DATE SUBMITTED: RATING:

DATA SHEET:

a. Weight of Sieve No. 200 + Residue, gm

b. Weight of Sieve No. 200, gm

c. Weight of Residue, gm, (a) - (b)

d. Weight of Original sample, W1, gm 50

e. % Residue

Result Specification
f. % Fineness
90% minimum
Meet Does not Meet
g. REMARKS Requirement Requirement

19
LABORATORY EXERCISE NO. 4-B
TESTING OF PORTLAND CEMENT

TITLE: NORMAL CONSISTENCY OF CEMENT

OBJECTIVE: To determine the amount of water required to reduce Portland Cement to a certain state of
plasticity called Normal Consistency by means of the Vicat Apparatus.

APPARATUS:

Vicat Needle Graduated cylinder, 50 ml capacity

Digital balance, 1 kg capacity Glass plate
Trowel Mixing tray

PROCEDURE:
1. Make 500g of cement sample into a mound and form a crater in the center.
2. Pour a measure quantity into the crater. Within 30 seconds turn the outer edge into the center with a
trowel.
3. Mix the material with gloved hands for 1-1/2 minutes in a continuous kneading, mixing and squeezing
operation.
4. Form the paste into a ball and toss it from one hand to the other 6 times, the hand being kept in apart.
5. Press the ball in the larger end of the conical ring of the Vicat needle, filling the ring completely with
the paste. Remove excess paste with palm of hand.
6. Place the conical ring with its larger end resting on the glass plate. Remove excess paste at smaller end
with one stroke of the trowel.
7. Center the mold under rod of Vicat apparatus, with end of plunger in contact with surface of paste.
8. Determine the penetration 30 seconds after release of plunger. The paste is of normal consistency if
the penetration is 10 minutes.
9. Repeat procedure with different amounts of water until normal consistency is obtained. Use fresh
cement for each trial.

CALCULATION:

N.C. = x 100%

where:
N.C. = normal consistency
V = volume of water use in cubic centimeter
W = weight of cement sample = 500 grams

20
DATA:

LAB. EXERCISE NO: NAME:

TITLE: CLASS CODE:
DATE PERFORMED: GROUP NO:
DATE SUBMITTED: RATING:

DATA SHEET:

TRIAL NO. 1 2 3 4 5

Weight of sample, gm

Volume of water used, cc

Penetration, mm

N.C., %

21
LABORATORY EXERCISE NO. 4-C
TESTING OF PORTLAND CEMENT
TITLE: TIME OF SETTING OF CEMENT

OBJECTIVE:
To determine the initial time and final setting of Portland Cement with the use of the Gillmore
Needle.

APPARATUS:

Gillmore Needle
Graduated cylinder, 50 ml capacity
Digital balance, 1 kg capacity
Glass plate
Trowel
Mixing tray

PROCEDURE:
1. Prepare a cement of normal consistency.
2. Make a pat about 3 inches in diameter, 1/2 inch thick at the center with a flat top and tapering to a
thin edge on a glass plate.
3. Store the pat in a moist closet with a temperature of 23oC and test at intervals.
4. Determine the time of setting by applying the needles lightly on the surface of the pat. The cement
shall be considered to have acquired its initial set when the pat will bear the 1/4 lb. needle without
appreciable indentation. The final set is when the pat will bear the 1 lb. needle without appreciable
indentation.

22
DATA:

LAB. EXERCISE NO: NAME:

TITLE: CLASS CODE:
DATE PERFORMED: GROUP NO:
DATE SUBMITTED: RATING:

DATA SHEET:
1. CLOCK TIME

a. Time Started

b. Initial Set

c. Final Set

2. TIME OF SETTING

a. Initial Set, (b) - (a)

b. Final Set, (c) - (a)

23
LABORATORY EXERCISE NO. 4-D
TESTING OF PORTLAND CEMENT
TITLE: COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF CEMENT

OBJECTIVE:
To determine the compressive strength of cement mortar cube.

APPARATUS:

Cube molds (3-gang mold)

Graduated cylinder, 100 ml capacity
Digital balance, 2 kg capacity
Flow table
Mixing pan
Trowel
Flow table mold
Tamping rod

PROCEDURE:
1. Prepare the mortar for the test which shall be 1 part of cement and 2.75 parts by weight of graded
sand with enough water to give a flow of between 100 to 115.
2. Add cement to the water in the mixing pan and mix for 30 seconds and add one-half of the sand and
mix for 30 seconds. Combine the remaining sand for 1 1/2 minutes.
3. To determine flow, place mortar in the flow table mold in 2 layers, each layer being tamped with 20
times with the tamping rod. Level-off mortar lush with the surface of mold using straight edge of the
trowel. Remove mold vertically and drop the flow table 25 times through a height of 1/2 inch in 15
seconds. Flow is the resulting increase in diameter of the mortar, expressed as a percentage of the
original diameter. Use varying amounts of water until the desired flow is obtained.
4. After the flow test, return the mortar with the right flow to the pan and remix for 15 seconds.
5. Place a 1 inch layer of the mortar in all the cube molds. Tamp each layer 32 times in 4 rounds of 8
strokes each, every round at right angles in each other. Pressure shall be enough to ensure uniform
filling.
6. Place the second layer of the mortar and tamp as before. Level-off the mortar flush with the top of
mold with the use of trowel.
7. Keep all specimens in the molds in a moist closet from 20 to 24 hours. After 24 hours, remove
specimens from molds and immerse in clean water until one day before test.
8. Wipe each cube to a surface-dry condition and test in compression to failure.
9. report the average strength of the 3 cubes.

24
DATA:

LAB. EXERCISE NO: NAME:

TITLE: CLASS CODE:
DATE PERFORMED: GROUP NO:
DATE SUBMITTED: RATING:

DATA SHEET:

Trial No. 1 2 3 4
Weight of cement sample, gm
Weight of sand, gm
FLOW DETERMINATION
a. Water used, ml
b. Initial diameter, in
c. Final diameter, in
d. Flow, % [(c) - (b)] / (b) x 100%

COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH DETERMINATION

a. Cross-sectional area, mm2

Age in Days
b. Total load in Newton (N) for
3 7 28
1st Cube
2nd Cube
3rd Cube
c. Compressive strength, MPa

25
LABORATORY EXPERIMENT NO. 5-A
TESTING OF AGGREGATES
TITLE: REDUCING FIELD SAMPLES OF AGGREGATES TO TESTING SIZE

OBJECTIVE:
To prepare and reduce a representative sample of aggregates for testing by using a mechanical
sample splitter or by quartering method.

APPARATUS:

Mechanical Sample Splitter

Shovel
Mixing Pan
Scoop

PROCEDURE:
A. MECHANICAL SPLITTER
1. Place the field sample in the hopper of the sample splitter and distribute it uniformly from edge to
edge, so that equal amounts will flow through each chute. The rate of pouring the sample shall be
such as to allow free flowing through the chutes into the receptacles below.
2. Reintroduce the portion of the sample in one of the receptacles into the splitter as many times as
necessary to reduce the sample to the specified sample size for the intended test.
3. The portion of the material collected in the other receptacle may be reserved for reduction in size for
other tests.

B. QUARTERING METHOD
1. Place the sample on a hard, clean level surface where there will be neither loss of material nor the
accidental addition of foreign material.
2. Mix the material thoroughly by turning the entire sample over 3 times. With the last turning, shovel
the entire sample into a conical pile.
3. Carefully flatten the conical pile to a uniform thickness and diameter by pressing down the apex with
shovel. The diameter should be approximately four to eight ties the thickness.
4. Divide the flattened mass into four equal quarters with a shovel or trowel.
5. Remove two diagonally opposite quarters including all fine material and brush the cleared spaces
clean.
6. Successively mix and quarter the remaining material until the sample is reduced to the desired size.

26
LABORATORY EXPERIMENT NO. 5-B
TESTING OF AGGREGATES
TITLE: UNIT WEIGHT DETERMINATION OF AGGREGATES

OBJECTIVE:
To determine the unit weight of aggregates

APPARATUS:

Volumetric measure (preferably metal)

Tamping rod (steel)
Balance and weights
Scoop

PROCEDURE:
The volumetric measures shall be calibrated by determining the weight of water required to fill it.
Volume of container is equal to weight divided by the unit weight of water at the temperature of
calibration.

A. COMPACT UNIT WEIGHT DETERMINATION

1. Fill one-third of measure, and level.

2. Tamp 25 times in evenly distributed over surface.
3. Fill two-thirds of the measure, level and repeat procedure as in step 2.
4. Lastly, fill the measure to overflowing and repeat procedure as in step 2.
5. Strike-off the excess aggregate with the tamping rod.
6. Remove all excess material beyond the material inside the volumetric measure.
7. Weigh the volumetric measure and the sample and record.
8. Compute unit weight by dividing the weight of the sample by the volume of measure.

B. LOOSE UNIT WEIGHT DETERMINATION

1. Fill the volumetric measure to overflowing by means of a scoop.

2. Discharge the aggregate from a height of about 2 in. from top of measure.
3. Exercise care to prevent segregation of particle sizes.
4. Carefully level-off the surface of measure.
5. Weigh the volumetric measure and the sample and record.
6. Compute unit weight by dividing the weight of the sample by the volume of measure.

27
DATA:

LAB. EXERCISE NO: NAME:

TITLE: CLASS CODE:
DATE PERFORMED: GROUP NO:
DATE SUBMITTED: RATING:

DATA SHEET:

A. LOOSE UNIT WEIGHT

Coarse Aggregates Fine Aggregates
a. Weight of measure + Sample, gm.
b. Weight of measure, gm.
c. Weight of sample, gm (a) - (b)
d. Volume of measure, cm3
e. Unit weight, gm/cm3 (c) / (d)

B. COMPACT UNIT WEIGHT

Coarse Aggregates Fine Aggregates
a. Weight of measure + Sample, gm.
b. Weight of measure, gm.
c. Weight of sample, gm (a) - (b)
d. Volume of measure, cm3
e. Unit weight, gm/cm3 (c) / (d)

28
LABORATORY EXPERIMENT NO. 5-C
TESTING OF AGGREGATES
TITLE: SPECIFIC GRAVITY, ABSORPTION AND TOTAL MOISTURE CONTENT DETERMINATION TEST OF
FINE AND COARSE AGGREGATES

OBJECTIVE:
To determine the specific gravity, percent absorption and moisture content of aggregates

APPARATUS:

Pycnometer (500 ml capacity) Water bucket

Conical sand cone with tamper Wire basket of No. 4 mesh
Tray Digital spring balance
Scoop Oven

PROCEDURE:
A. SPECIFIC GRAVITY AND ABSORPTION TEST FOR FINE AGGREGATES

Prior to testing soak 1000g of sample in water for 24 hours at room temperature of 20 oC.

1. Fill the pycnometer with water, and air should be expelled by rolling on side or boiling and record the
weight of pycnometer with water at its calibration mark.
2. Spread sample of 1000 g on a flat surface and stir frequently until it approaches a free-flowing condition.
3. Place sample in the conical mold, tamp surface 25 times and lift mold vertically. Sample in the cone will
retain its shape in the presence of free moisture. If this condition exists, continue drying and repeat
the test until sample slumps upon removal of the mold. This will indicate a surface-dry conditions.
4. Weigh 500g of the surface-dry sample and place in the pycnometer.
5. Fill pycnometer with water and roll on a flat surface to remove air bubbles. Then place in a water bath
maintained at 20oC for about one hour.
6. Fill pycnometer to 500 ml mark and weigh.
7. Remove sample from pycnometer and dry to constant weight.
8. Get oven dry weight.
9. Determine specific gravity and % absorption from the following:

Gsg = % Absorption = x 100%

where:
Gsg. = specific gravity of bulk saturated surface-dry (SSD) sample
Wo = weight in air of oven-dried sample
W1 = weight in air of saturated surfaced-dry sample
W2 = weight of pycnometer filled with water
W3 = weight of pycnometer + water + sample

29
B. SPECIFIC GRAVITY AND ABSORPTION TEST FOR COARSE AGGREGATES

Prior to testing soak 5kg of sample in water, retained on sieve 3/8" and wash portion retained to
remove dust or other coating for 24 hours at room temperature of 20 oC.

1. Remove sample from water and wipe all visible films of water with an absorbent cloth. Sample is now
in surface-dry condition but saturated inside (SSD).
2. Weigh surface-dry sample in air and record.
3. Place sample in wire basket submerge in water and determine weight and record.
4. Get oven dry weight after drying the sample in an oven.
9. Determine specific gravity and % absorption from the following:

Gsg = % Absorption = x 100%

where:
Gsg = specific gravity of bulk saturated surface-dry (SSD) sample
Wo = weight in air of oven-dried sample
W1 = weight in air of saturated surfaced-dry sample
W2 = weight of sample in water

C. TOTAL MOISTURE CONTENT DETERMINATION OF AGGREGATES

1. Weigh container.
2. Put a representative sample of the aggregate mass being tested to the container and weigh to the
nearest 0.1%, avoiding moisture loss.
3. Dry sample to constant weight in the oven at a temperature of 100 -110oC.
4. Weigh the dry sample and container to the nearest 0.1% after cooling.
5. Calculate moisture content by

%M = x 100% where:
%M = total moisture content
Wt = weight of sample obtained from aggregate mass,
or original sample
W1 = weight of oven dried sample

6. Surface moisture content may be calculated by:

%SM = %M - % Absorption where:

%SM = surface moisture content
%M = total moisture content

30
DATA:

LAB. EXERCISE NO: NAME:

TITLE: CLASS CODE:
DATE PERFORMED: GROUP NO:
DATE SUBMITTED: RATING:

DATA SHEET:

A. SPECIFIC GRAVITY AND ABSORPTION TEST RESULTS FOR FINE AGGREGATE

a. Weight of pycnometer + water, W2, gm

b. Weight of SSD sample, W1, gm.
c. Weight of pycnometer + water + sample, W3, gm
d. Weight of oven dried sample, Wo, gm
e. Gsg (Bulk SSD), (b)/[(b)-(c)+(a)]
e. % Absorption, [(b)-(d)] / (d) x 100%
B. SPECIFIC GRAVITY AND ABSORPTION TEST RESULTS FOR COARSE AGGREGATE

a. Weight of SSD sample in air, W1, gm

b. Weight of SSD sample in water, W2, gm.
c. Weight of oven dried sample in air, Wo, gm
d. Gsg (Bulk SSD), (b)/[(b)-(c)]
e. % Absorption, [(b)-(a)] / (a) x 100%
C. MOISTURE CONTENT TEST RESULTS FOR AGGREGATES

a. Weight of original sample + container, gm

b. Weight of container, gm.
c. Weight of oven dried sample + container, gm
d. Weight of original sample, Wt, gm
e. Weight of oven dried sample, Wo, gm
f. Moisture Content, %M, [(d)-(e)] / (e) x 100%

31
LABORATORY EXPERIMENT NO. 5-D
TESTING OF AGGREGATES
TITLE: SIEVE ANALYSIS OF AGGREGATES

OBJECT:
To determine the grain size distribution of fine and coarse aggregates.

APPARATUS:

Digital balance, 5 kg cap

Standard set of sieves
Container
Oven
Scoop

PROCEDURE:

1. Weight the original sample.

2. Wash the sample using sieve No. 200 and oven dried.
Performing washing needs additional sieve No. 16 so that sieve No. 200 will not risk.
3. Get the weight after drying.
4. Determine the weight of individual sieve.
5. Pass sample through the nested set of sieves.
Sieving is finished when no material passing on succeeding sieve.
6. Weigh the material retained on each sieve.
7. Calculate the cumulative percentage passing each sieve by dividing from original weight of sample.

32
DATA:

LAB. EXERCISE NO: NAME:

TITLE: CLASS CODE:
DATE PERFORMED: GROUP NO:
DATE SUBMITTED: RATING:

DATA SHEET:

A. SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE AGGREGATE

Weight of
Weight of Cumulative
Weight of Sieve + Percent SPECIFICATION
Sieve Size Material Weight
Sieve Material Passing % Passing
Retained Passing
Retained
Cover
#4 95 -100
#8
#16 45 - 80
#30
#50 10 - 30
#100 2 - 10
Pan

B. SIEVE ANALYSIS OF COARSE AGGREGATE

Weight of
Weight of Cumulative
Weight of Sieve + Percent SPECIFICATION
Sieve Size Material Weight
Sieve Material Passing % Passing
Retained Passing
Retained
Cover
3" 95 -100
1-1/2"
3/4" 45 - 80
3/8"
#4 10 - 30
Pan

FORMULAS:

1. Cumulative weight passing = Total weight - weight retained

2. % Passing = x 100%

33
LABORATORY EXPERIMENT NO. 5-E
TESTING OF AGGREGATES
TITLE: ABRASION TEST OF COARSE AGGREGATE

OBJECT:
To measure the degradation of mineral aggregates of standard grading.

APPARATUS:

Steel Spherical Balls

Machine with a counter
Sieves

PROCEDURE:

1. Prepare the sample according to the maximum size of materials.

2. Place the specified number of steel spheres in the machine and rotate it for 500 revolutions at a
speed of 30 - 33 revolutions per minute (RPM).
3. Take the material in the machine, then separate it using sieve No. 12 (1.70mm).
4. Wash the material retain on sieve and dry in an oven.
5. Compute percentage loss due to Abrasion by getting the discrepancy between the retained
material compare to the original sample weight.
6. Percent loss is result of dividing the difference between the original weight of material and
retained weight of material on sieve no. 12 with the original weight of material.

GRADING OF TEST SAMPLE

Sieve Size Mass of Indicated Sizes, g
Passing Retained A (12 balls) B (11 balls) C (8 balls) D (6 balls)
1 1/2" 1" 1250 ± 25 - - -
1" 3/4" 1250 ± 25 - - -
3/4" 1/2" 1250 ± 10 2500 ± 10 - -
1/2" 3/8" 1250 ± 10 2500 ± 10 - -
3/8" 1/4" 2500 ± 10 -
1/4" #4 2500 ± 10 -
#4 #8 5000 ± 10
TOTAL 5000 ± 10 5000 ± 10 5000 ± 10 5000 ± 10
Note:
1. A, B, C, and D in the above tale, represent grading of aggregate and in parenthesis the number
of steel balls to be used for the particular grading.
2. sample shall be washed and oven-dried at a temperature of 105oC - 110oC and should conform
to one of the grading observation.

34
DATA:

LAB. EXERCISE NO: NAME:

TITLE: CLASS CODE:
DATE PERFORMED: GROUP NO:
DATE SUBMITTED: RATING:

DATA SHEET:

a. Weight of tray + Weight of sample, gms

b. Weight of tray + Wet weight of sample retained on sieve #12, gms

c. Weight of tray + Dry weight of sample retained on sieve #12, gms

d. Weight of material loss, gms (a - c)

e. Percent loss, % ( d / a x 100%)

COMPUTATION:

% x100%

35
LABORATORY EXERCISE NO. 6-A
TESTING OF CONCRETE
TITLE: CONCRETE MIX PREPARATION AND CURING SPECIMENS

OBJECTIVE:
To prepare a concrete mix according to a specification and to determine its properties (slump, density).
Note: This exercise can be done simultaneously with LEN 6-B and 6-C.

APPARATUS:
Slump test apparatus
Molds, beam molds & cylindrical molds, Tramping rod
Shovel, scoop and trowel; Pail, mixer or mixing pan
Wood float, straightedge and ruler; Balance and weights

PROCEDURE:
1. Weigh equal amounts of sand and gravel for a total of about 15kg. and place them into the mixer. Add
2kg. of cement and, with the mixer turning, add water using the water-cement ratio of 0.45, 0.55 or
0.65 as assigned. Keep precise records of the amounts. it is convenient to measure the water in a
beaker (1L=1kg.)
2. The aim is to produce a mix consistency with a slump about 50,100 or 150mm as assigned. Add water
and cement in correct proportion with the aggregates.
3. Perform a slump test in the ff. manner:
a. Place the slump mold on a flat, moist and non-absorbent surface.
b. Fill the slump cone with the concrete mix to 1/3 of the depth of cone and tamp with the rod.
Tamp the layer with 25 strokes uniformly distributed over the surface.
c. Add another portion of the concrete mix to another 1/3 of the depth of the cone and tamp
25 times. the tamping rod should penetrate the entire depth of the layer being tamped.
d. Add concrete mix to the slump cone until it is full. Tamp the layer as in step c above. Level-off
the excess at the surface with a trowel or straightedge.
e. Lift the mold slowly and carefully in a vertical direction.
f. Measure immediately the slump with a ruler by getting the difference between the height of
the cone and the height of the vertical axis of the slumped concrete. Record.
4. If the resulting slump is greater than the specified amount or smaller by more than 25mm, mix the
concrete again and make adjustments.
5. Measure and weigh specimen molds (cylindrical or beam molds). Fill the molds with the mix. Compact
the concrete by rodding (3 layers of 25 strokes per layer for cylindrical specimens and 2 layers of 75
strokes per layer for beam specimens). Taper up the excess concrete on top of the mold and level it
off after one hour. Weigh the mold with mix and compute the density. Tag specimens and place on
each a damp paper on the top. Leave the specimens in a secured room for 24 hours before the molds
are removed and specimens placed in the curing pond.
6. Test the specimens at the specified age.

36
DATA:

LAB. EXERCISE NO: NAME:

TITLE: CLASS CODE:
DATE PERFORMED: GROUP NO:
DATE SUBMITTED: RATING:

DATA SHEET:

CONCRETE MIX PREPARATION Sample 1 Sample 2 Sample 3

W/C ratio used
Sand
Gravel
Cement
Water
Resulting slump, mm
Air content
Dimension of specimen molds
a. Cylinder mold
Diameter
Length
Volume
b. Beam mold
Width
Thickness
Volume
Weight of specimen mold, kg
Weight of mold + concrete mix, kg.
Density or unit weight, kg/m3 or kN/m3

37
LABORATORY EXERCISE NO. 6-B
TESTING OF CONCRETE
TITLE: PREPARATION AND COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH TEST OF CYLINDRICAL CONCRETE SPECIMENS

OBJECTIVE:
To prepare cylindrical concrete specimens and to test these specimens in compression. Note: Sample
prepared in LEN 6-A can be used in this exercise.

APPARATUS:
Compression machine
Compression cylindrical molds 6 in. dia. and 12 in. ht.
Vibrating table
Standard steel tamping rod
Mixing pan
Capping material
Trowel
Straightedge

PROCEDURE:
1. Obtain a representative sample from the concrete mix. Place the thoroughly-mixed sample in the
cylindrical mold in 3 layers of approximately equal volume. Tamp each layer with 25 strokes with the
steel tamping rod. The rod should penetrate the entire depth of the layer being tamped. Place the
mold on the vibrating table for even distribution of concrete. After the top layer has been placed and
tapered up, strike-off the excess (after one hour when initial set has been completed) with a
straightedge and cover with a plate or damp material that will prevent evaporation.
2. After 24 hours, remove the specimen from the mold and cure until the time of test. Curing means to
store the specimen in a moist condition at temperature range of 18 oC to 24oC. Specimens should not
be exposed to running water.
3. Prior to testing, cap the ends of the specimen with suitable material to make ends approximately at
right angles to the axis of the cylinder. The cap should be as thin as possible. Use Neoprene cap is
also accepted.
4. Get the average diameter by measuring two diameters at right angles to each other near the center of
height of specimen. Measure also the height of the specimen with and without the caps.
5. Place the specimen, which is in a moist condition, on the lower platen of the machine. Apply load at a
constant rate until the specimen fails.
6. Record the maximum load carried by the specimen.

38
DATA:

LAB. EXERCISE NO: NAME:

TITLE: CLASS CODE:
DATE PERFORMED: GROUP NO:
DATE SUBMITTED: RATING:

DATA SHEET:
Age, days 7 14 28
Height, mm
a b a b a b
Diameter, mm
Average diameter, mm
Cross-sectional area, mm2
Maximum load, kN
Compressive strength, MPa

Note: The instructor shall discuss the proper operation of the Compression machine. The lower platen
should not rise more than 500 mm. in indicated on the front graduation.

39
LABORATORY EXERCISE NO. 6-C
TESTING OF CONCRETE
TITLE: PREPARATION AND FLEXURE TEST OF CONCRETE BEAM SPECIMENS

OBJECTIVE:
To determine the modulus of rupture of concrete beams. Note: Sample prepared in LEN 6-A can be used
in this exercise.

APPARATUS:
UTM
Flexure beam molds, 6" x 6 " x 21"
Standard steel tamping rod
Mixing pan
Shovel
Trowel

PROCEDURE:
1. Place the thoroughly-mixed sample, representative of the batch, in the mold with its long axis horizontal
in layers approximately 3 inches in depth. Tamp each layer 1 stroke per 2 in2 of area. The top layer shall
slightly overfill the mold. After each layer has been rodded, spade the concrete along the sides and
ends of the mold with trowel. After rodding, and soading operations on the top layer are completed.,
let the mix set for one hour and then strike-off the surface with a straightedge and finish with a trowel.
Cover the top with damp material.
2. After 24 hours, remove sample from mold and cure until time of test.
3. Sample may be tested using Third-point loading or Center-point loading. Test sample in the same
position as molded. Center the sample on the bearing blocks. Bring the load-applying blocks in contact
with the upper surface of the specimen at the third-point suports (fr third-point loading) or at the
center line between supports (for center-point loading)
4. Apply load at uniform rate and in such a manner as to avoid shock. Increase load until specimen fails.
Record the maximum load carried by specimen.
5. After the test, measure the average width and average depth of specimen at section of failure
measured to the nearest 0.05 in. (1.3 mm)

CALCULATION:

*For Third-point loading

a) If fracture is within middle third, calculate modulus of rupture by:

PL
R = -----
bd2

where:
R = modulus of rupture, psi
P = maximum load, lb

40
 L = span, in.
b = average width, in.
d = average depth, in.

b) If fracture is outside the middle third of the span length by not more than 5% of the span length,
calculate modulus of rupture by:

3Pa
R = -------
bd2

where:
a = distance between line of fracture and nearest support measured along the centerline of the
bottom surface of the beam, in.

c) If fracture is outside of cases (a) and (b), discard the results of the test.

*For Center-point Loading

Calculate Modulus of rupture by:

3PL
R = -------
2bd2

where:
R = modulus of rupture, psi
P = maximum load, lb
b = average width, in.
d = average depth, in.

41
DATA:

LAB. EXERCISE NO: NAME:

TITLE: CLASS CODE:
DATE PERFORMED: GROUP NO:
DATE SUBMITTED: RATING:

DATA SHEET:

FLEXURE TEST:

Type of Loading ____________ Third-point Loading

____________ Center-point Loading

1 Age, days 7 14 28

2 Average width, W, mm

3 Average depth, D, mm

4 Span Length, L, mm

5 Maximum Load, P, kN

6 Modulus of Rupture, R, mm

Location of Fracture (for Third-point loading)

____________(a) Within middle third of span

____________(b) Outside middle third, less than 5% of span

____________(c) Outside middle third, more than 5% of span

____________(d) Distance of fracture from nearest support, mm, for case (b)

42
LABORATORY EXERCISE NO. 7
TESTING OF ASPHALT (BITUMINOUS MIXTURES)

INTRODUCTION:

Bituminous mixes (sometimes called asphalt mixes) are used in the surface layer of road and
airfield pavements. The mix is composed usually of aggregate and asphalt cements, some types of
bituminous mixes are also used in based coarse. The design in of asphalt paving mix, as with the design of
other engineering materials is largely a matter of selecting and proportioning constituent materials to
obtain the desired properties in the finished pavement structure.

The desirable properties of Asphalt mixes are:

1. Resistance to permanent deformation: The mix should not distort or to be displaced when subjected to
traffic loads. The resistance to permanent deformation is more important at high temperatures.
2. Fatigue resistance: the mix should not crack when subjected to a repeated loads over a period of
time.
3. Resistance to low temperature cracking. This mix property is important in cold regions.
4. Durability: the mix should contain sufficient asphalt cement to ensure an adequate film thickness
around the aggregate particles. The compacted mix should not have very high air voids, which
accelerates the aging process.
5. Resistance to moisture-induced damage.
6. Skid resistance.
7. Workability: the nix must be capable of being placed and compacted with reasonable effort.
8. Low noise and good drainage properties: If the mix is to be used for the surface (wearing) layer of the
pavement structure.

43
LABORATORY EXERCISE NO. 7-A
TESTING OF ASPHALT (BITUMINOUS MIXTURES)

TITLE: DETERMINATION OF BITUMEN CONTENT FROM BITUMINOUS MIXTURES BY EXTRACTION

OBJECTIVE:
This method can be used for quantitative determination of bitumen in hot-mixed paving mixture and
pavement samples for specification acceptance, service evaluation, control and research.

APPARATUS:
1. Oven, capable of maintaining the temperature 110±5 oC (230±9 oF)
2. Pan, flat of appropriate size to warm test specimen
3. Balance
4. Hot plate electric with adjustable heating rate
5. Ignition dish, 125 ml capacity
6. Desiccators
7. Extraction Apparatus, consisting of a bowl and a apparatus in which the bowl may be resolved
at controlled variable speed up o 3600 rpm. The speed may be controlled manually or with a
preset speed control.
8. Filter ring, felt or paper, to fit the rim of the bowl.
9. Low-ash paper filter rings may be used in place of the felt ring. Such filter rings shall consist of
low ash filter paper stock 0.05±0.005 in. thick. The nominal base weight of the paper shall be
330±30 lb for a ream (500 sheets-25 x 38 in ). The ash content of the paper should not exceed
0.2% (approximately 0.034 g per ring)
10. Reagents - trichloroethylene, gasoline, benzene

PREPARATION OF TEST SPECIMENS

1. If the mixture is not sufficiently soft to separate with a spatula or trowel, place it in a large flat and
warm 90 to 100oC only until it can be handled or mixed. Split or quarter the material until the mass of
material required for test is obtained.
2. Weigh 850 to 1000g of the sample.

PROCEDURE:
1. Place specimen into a bowl.
2. Cover the test portion in the bowl with trichloroethylene, 1-trichloroethane or methane chloride and
allow sufficient time for solvent to disintegrate the test portion (not over 1 hour). Place the bowl
containing the test portion and the solvent in the extraction apparatus. Fit the filter ring around the
edge of the bowl. Clamp the cover on the bowl tightly and place a beaker under the drain to collect.
3. Start the centrifuge revolving slowly and gradually increase the speed to a maximum of 3600 rpm until
solvent ceases to flow from the drain. Allow the machine to stop, add 200 ml (or more as appropriate
for mass of sample) trichloroethylene, 1-trichloroethane or methane chloride and repeat the
procedure. Use the sufficient solvent additions (not less than three) so that the extract is not darker
than light straw color. Collect the extract and the washings in an appropriate container for mineral
matter determination.
4. Remove the filter ring from the bowl and dry in air. If felt filter rings are used, brush off mineral matter
adhering to the surface of the ring and add to the extracted aggregate. Dry ring to constant mass in an
oven at 230±9oF (110±5oC). Carefully remove all the contents of the bowl into a metal pan and dry in

44
 air under a hood and then to constant mass in an oven or on hot plate at 230±9 oF (110±5oC). The mass
of the extracted aggregate is equal to the mass of the aggregate and mineral filler in the pan.
5. Calculation in Bitumen content, % by mass of aggregate

W1 - W 2
Bitumen content = -------------- x 100
W2

where:
W1 = mass of the test portion (sample)
W2 = mass of sample after extraction

45
DATA:

LAB. EXERCISE NO: NAME:

TITLE: CLASS CODE:
DATE PERFORMED: GROUP NO:
DATE SUBMITTED: RATING:

DATA SHEET:

46
LABORATORY EXERCISE NO. 7-B
TESTING OF ASPHALT (BITUMINOUS MIXTURES)

TITLE: MARSHALL TEST OF BITUMINOUS MIXES

OBJECTIVE:
This method of test covers the procedures for testing bituminous mixes to determine Bulk Density,
Stability, and flow test, and density and voids analysis.

APPARATUS:
1. Mold assembly: cylindrical molds of 10 cm diameter and 7.5 cm height consisting of a base
plate and collar extension.
2. Compaction pedestal and hammer
3. Sample Extractor: for extruding the compacted specimen from the mould (see figure 7.2)
4. Breaking head
5. Loading machine (see figure 7.1)
6. Flow meter, water bath, thermometer

PREPARATION OF TEST SPECIMEN:

The coarse aggregate, fine aggregate and the filler material should be proportioned so as to fulfill
the requirements of the relevant standard. The required quantity of the mix is taken so as to produced
compacted bituminous mix specimens of thickness 63.5 mm approximately, 1200 grams of aggregates
and filler are required to produce the desired thickness. The aggregates are heated to a temperature of
175oC to 190oC the compaction mould assembly and rammer are cleaned and kept pre-heated to a
temperature of 100oC to 145oC. The bitumen is heated to a temperature of 121oC to 138oC and the
required amount of first trial of bitumen is added to the heated aggregate and thoroughly mixed. The mix
is placed in a mould and compacted with 75 blows on top and 75 blows inverted. The sample is taken out
of the mould after few minutes using sample extractor.

47
 Flow and Stability
Display

Load Cell

Deformation Sensor Breaking Head

Marshall Specimen

Figure 7.1 Marshall Stability and Flow Test Setup

Figure 7.2 Marshall Specimen Extractor

48
PROCEDURE:
1. Mix the sample of mixed material (Hot Plant Mixes with Asphalt) thoroughly and split out not less than
three increments weighing approximately 1,200 g for a 100 mm (4 in) diameter plug. Bring the
increments to within the limits of the compacting temperature determined in the preparation of
sample prior to compacting.
2. Repeat procedure 1 to be tested at six different asphalt cement contents, in 1/2 percent increments.
At least three specimens are prepared for each percentage of asphalt. Prepare one extra aggregate
and asphalt sample to be mixed first and then thrown away. This sample is to "butter" the mixing bowl
and paddle and thus reduce material loss when mixing the test specimens.
3. Dry individual aggregates to constant mass at 105 to 110oC (221 to 230oF). Separate the individual
aggregates by dry screening into desired fractions. The following size fractions are recommended as a
minimum:

25.0 to 19.0 mm (1 to 3/4 in) 4.75 to 2.36 mm (No.4 to No.8)

19.0 to 12.5 mm (3/4 to 1/2 in) 2.36 to 1.18 mm (No.8 to No.16)
12.5 to 9.5 mm (1/2 to 3/8 in) Passing 1.18 mm (Passing No.16)
9.5 to 4.75 mm (3/8 in to No.4)

4. Preparation of Reclaimed Material: Place the reclaimed material in a 50 to 80 oC (125 to 175oF) draft
oven for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, to soften. Transfer the materials to the mixing bowl and mix for two minutes
in order to breakdown the reclaimed material to the recommended sizes. (Mixer will mix
approximately 3,500 g.) Other methods of breakdown are acceptable provided they do not fracture
aggregates or lose an excessive amount of material in the process. Separate the reclaimed material
into desired fractions by screening, when cool enough to screen. The following size fractions are
recommended:

19.0 to 12.5 mm (3/4 to 1/2 in) 4.75 to 2.36 mm (No.4 to No.8)

12.5 to 9.5 mm (1/2 to 3/8 in) Passing 2.36 mm (Passing No.8)
9.5 to 4.75 mm (3/8 in to No.4)
Weigh each fraction and record percentage of total sample.

5. Preparation of Mixes: Combine the individual aggregates or reclaimed material and virgin aggregates
by weighing out in a separate pan for each test specimen, proportionate amounts of each size fraction
for each individual aggregate to produce the desired combined aggregate with a batch mass of
approximately 1,125 g. This should be sufficient to produce a compacted specimen 64 + 3 mm (2.5 +
1/8 in) thick. Adjust the mass of the batch as needed to produce compacted specimens of 64 + 3 mm
(2.5 + 1/8 in) thickness.
Heat the aggregate and asphalt within the limits of mixing temperature determined. Charge the
mixing bowl with the heated aggregate and form a crater in the top. Add the required amount of
asphalt and mix the aggregate and asphalt until thoroughly coated, at least 2 minutes. Care should be
taken to keep all of the sample in the mixing bowl during this process.
Place the mix in a 135oC (275oF) oven and age the material for 2 hours as outlined. At the end of
the aging time place the mix in an oven set at the compaction temperature or reset the 135 oC (275oF)
oven temperature to reflect the compaction temperature. Allow the mix to adjust to the new
temperature prior to removing for compaction.
6. Compaction of Specimens: Prior to the addition of the asphalt to the batches, thoroughly clean the
specimen mold assembly and the face of the compaction hammer and heat the mold assembly and
hammer in boiling water, in an oven or on a hot plate, to a temperature between 90 and 175 oC (200

49
 and 350oF). Assemble the mold, base plate and collar and place a paper disc cut to size in the bottom
of the mold.
Place the entire hot batch of aggregate-asphalt mixture in the mold, spade vigorously with a
heated spatula or trowel 15 times around the perimeter and 10 times over the interior of the mold.
Smooth the surface of the mix to a slightly rounded shape. The temperature of the mix just prior to
compaction shall be within the limits. Place a paper disc on top of the mix. Place the mold assembly,
including the collar, on the pedestal, fasten securely with the mold holder and apply 50 or 75 blows a
with the compaction hammer. Each blow must have the prescribed free fall of 457 mm (18 in) with the
axis of the compaction hammer held perpendicular to the base of the mold assembly during the
compaction process. Remove the base plate and collar, and reverse and reassemble the mold. Apply
the specified number of blows to the reversed specimen. After compaction, remove the mold assembly
from the pedestal. Place the mold into the extractor and pop the plug loose from the mold. Permit the
plug to cool in this state until the next plug has been processed. Extrude the initial plug out of the mold
and pop the next plug loose. Carefully transfer the extruded plug to a smooth, flat surface and allow it
to stand until the plug reaches room temperature.
7. Thickness of Specimen: Measure the specimen thickness to the nearest 0.025 mm (0.001 in). If the
specimen thickness is less than 60 mm (2.375 in) or more than 67 mm (2.625 in), discard it and mold a
replacement having a thickness within these limits.
8. Determination of Specific Gravity and Unit Weight: Determine the specific gravity and unit weight by
the appropriate method.
9. After determining the specific gravity for all of the specimens. Immerse the specimens in a 60 ± 1 oC
(140 ± 2 oF) water bath for 30 to 40 minutes7. Thoroughly clean the guide rods and inside surfaces of
the test heads prior to making the test. Lubricate the guide rods so that the upper test head slides
freely over them. Remove the specimen from the water bath and place in the breaking head. The
elapsed time for the test from removal of the test specimen from the water bath to the maximum load
determination shall not exceed 30 sec. Place the complete breaking head assembly in position on the
testing machine. Place the flow meters, where used, in position over the guide rods and adjust the flow
meters to zero. Hold the flow meters firmly against the upper segment of the breaking head while the
test load is being applied. Avoid using excess pressure against the testing head while determining flow.
9.1 Apply the load to the specimen by a constant rate of movement of the load jack or testing machine
head of 50 mm (2 in) per minute until a maximum load is reached and the load decreases as
indicated by the proving ring dial. Record the maximum load noted on the testing machine or
converted from the proving ring micrometer dial reading.
9.2 Release the flow meter sleeves or note the micrometer dial readings, where used, the instant the
maximum load begins to decrease. Note and record the indicated flow values or equivalent units in
0.25 mm (0.01 in) if micrometer dials are used to measure flow.
9.3 For specimens other than 62.9 - 64.1 mm (2.476 - 2.525 in) in thickness, adjust the load using the
proper correction factor from Table 7.1.

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 Table 7.1 Stability Correction Ratio
Thickness of Correction
Specimen in mm (in) Ratio
60.3 - 61.2 (2.375 - 2.410) 1.07
61.3 - 62.9 (2.411 - 2.475) 1.04
63.0 - 64.1 (2.476 - 2.525) 1.00
64.2 - 65.3 (2.526 - 2.570) 0.97
65.4 - 66.7 (2.571 - 2.625) 0.94

NOTE: The measured stability of a specimen multiplied by the ratio for the thickness of the specimen
equals the corrected stability for a 63.5 mm (2 1/2 in) specimen.

10. Specific Gravity of Molded Specimens:

10.1 If the difference between the specific gravity of a single specimen in a set of three specimens and
the average of the set is greater than 0.025, discard the entire set and mold a new set.
10.2 If the difference between the specific gravity of a single specimen in a set of three specimens and
the average of the set is greater than 0.014 and not greater than 0.025, discard the results of the
single specimen and use the results of the tests on the remaining two specimens to compute the
average specific gravity of the set.
10.3 If the difference between the specific gravity of a single specimen in a set of three specimens and
the average specific gravity of the set in question is not greater than 0.014, the specific gravity of
the specimen is acceptable and may be used to determine the average specific gravity.

11. Stability of Molded Specimens:

11.1 If the difference between the stability of a specimen and the average stability of the set of three
specimens is not greater than the CV1 values shown in Table 7.2 the specimen is acceptable for use
in determining the average stability of the set.
Table 7.2 Stability Evaluation
Stability Range in N (lbf)
(Based on Mean of Set) CV1 CV2
0 - 2224 (0 - 500) 160 (35) 310 (70)
2228 - 4448 (501 - 1000) 290 (65) 580 (130)
4452 - 6672 (1001 - 1500) 440 (100) 890 (200)
6676 - 8896 (1501 - 2000) 580 (130) 1160 (260)
8900 - 11120 (2001 - 2500) 730 (165) 1470 (330)
11124 - 13344 (2501 - 3000) 870 (195) 1730 (390)
13348 - 15568 (3001 - 3500) 1000 (225) 2000 (450)
15572 - 17792 (3501 - 4000) 1160 (260) 2310 (520)
17796 - 20016 (4001 - 4500) 1290 (290) 2580 (580)
20020 - 22240 (4501 - 5000) 1420 (320) 2850 (640)

11.2 If this difference is greater the CV1 value but not greater than the CV2 values, the specimen will
be eliminated in the calculation of the average stability. Not less than two specimens will be used
when determining the set average stability.
11.3 If the difference between the stability of any specimen of a set and the average stability of the set
is greater than CV2 values shown in Table 7.2, the entire set will be discarded and another set
obtained.

51
DATA:

LAB. EXERCISE NO: NAME:

TITLE: CLASS CODE:
DATE PERFORMED: GROUP NO:
DATE SUBMITTED: RATING:

DATA SHEET:

S/L Sieve Size Specification Our % Sample Wt.

No. Passing Range(%) Selection Retained gm
Pass
0 25.0 to 19.0 mm (1 to 1/2 in) 100
1 19.0 to 12.5 mm (3/4 to 1/2 in) 66-95
2 12.5 to 9.5 mm (1/2 to 3/8 in) 54-88
3 9.5 to 4.75 mm (3/8 in to No.4) 37-70
4 4.75 to 2.36 mm (No.4 to No.8) 26-52
5 2.36 to 1.18 mm (No.8 to No.16) 18-40
6 1.18 to 600 um (No.16 to No.30) 13-30
7 600 to 300 um (No.30 to No.50) 8-23
8 300 to 150 um (No.50 to No.100) 6-16
9 150 to 75 um (No.100 to No.200) 4-10
10 ‹ 75 um (filler) Pan 0

% of Total
Aggregate
Coarse Aggregate =
Fine Aggregate =
Filler (Agg. Dust) =

% Wt. of Bitumen
Bitumen

SPECIFIC GRAVITY:
Coarse Aggregate
Fine Aggregate
Filler
Bitumen

52
53
LABORATORY EXERCISE NO. 8-A
TESTING OF CONCRETE HOLLOW BLOCK (CHB)

TITLE: COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF CONCRETE HOLLOW BLOCK

OBJECTIVE:
To determine the compressive strength of concrete hollow block.

APPARATUS:
1. Compression machine and some attachment
2. Balance

INTRODUCTION

Concrete can be converted into precast masonry units such as Hollow and Solid normal and light weight
concrete blocks of suitable size to be used for load and non-load bearing units for wallings. Use of such
concrete blocks are more appropriate in region where soil bricks are costly, poor in strength and are
not available. Depending upon the structural requirements of masonry unit, concrete mixes can be
designed using ingredients available locally or if not found suitable then with in the most economical
distance. The concrete mix used for normal hollow and solid blocks shall not be richer than one part
by volume of cement to 6 parts by volume of combined room dry aggregates before mixing. Hollow
concrete blocks for normal work used in masonry when reinforced is used shall not be leaner than 1
part cement to 8 parts room dry sand by volume. The mixes are designed with the available materials
to give overall economy and the required properties of the products. The hollow load bearing concrete
blocks of the standard size 400 x 200 x 200 mm will weight between 17 and 26 kg (1063 to 1625 kg/m3)
when made with normal weight aggregates. Normal weight blocks are made with cement, sand, gravel,
crushed stone and air-cooled slag. The grading for sand used in Hollow concrete block shall be as given
below.

I.S. Sieve Size Percentage Passing

4.75 mm 98-100
2.36 mm 80-100
1.18 mm 60-80
600 Micron 40-65
300 Micron 10-40
150 Micron 0-10

PROCEDURE:
1. Specimens shall be tested with the centroid of their bearing surfaces aligned vertically
with the center of thrust of the spherically seated steel bearing blocks of the testing
machine.
2. The load up to one-half of the expected maximum load may be applied at any convenient
rate, after which the control of the machine shall be adjusted as required to give a uniform
rate of travel of the moving head such that the remaining load is applied in not less than
one nor more than two minutes.

54
3. The compressive strength of a concrete masonry unit shall be taken as the maximum load
in Newton divided by the gross cross sectional area of the unit in square millimeters.
4. Report to the nearest 0.1 N/mm2 separately for each unit and the average for the 8 full
units.
5. The Gross area is the total area occupied by a block on its bedding face, including areas
of the cavities and end recesses.

DATA:

LAB. EXERCISE NO: NAME:

TITLE: CLASS CODE:
DATE PERFORMED: GROUP NO:
DATE SUBMITTED: RATING:

DATA SHEET:

DETERMINATION OF BLOCK DENSITY

1 2 3
a. Mass of block, kg
b. Volume of block, cm3
c. Density, kg/m3
Ave. =

COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF BLOCKS

1 2 3
c. Load, kN
d. Area of block, cm2
c. Strength, MPa
Ave. =

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