Department of Civil Engineering

COMSATS Institute of Information Technology (CIIT)

Abbottabad

TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING
Practical Lab Manual

Submitted To: Submitted By:

Name: _________________ Name: _________________
Signature: ______________ Reg No: ________________
Section:________________
 Highway Engineering Lab Manual

OBJECTIVES

1. Provide a platform to undergraduate and graduate students for practical

implementation of Transportation Engineering projects.
2. Bring students to the level of industrial standards in field of
Transportation Engineering.
3. Provide a platform for integration of academics and research.
4. Enhancing ability of students to apply appropriate methods of analysis to
raw data deduced from experiments.
5. At the end of course students would be able to carry out testing
procedures correctly.
6. Significance of testing in the design and infrastructure of transportation
engineering projects.

Dept. of Civil Engineering, CIIT, Abbottabad Page ii

 Highway Engineering Lab Manual

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Introduction
These notes with the safety precautions and safety measures that should be observed and
taken by all users of laboratory facilities. There will be special precautions needed for
handicapped people using laboratories, but these are outside the scope of this set of notes.
General Behavior
 No smoking
 No running, playing games, throwing objects or foolish behavior allowed.
Disciplinary actions will be taken against offenders
 Safety precautions must be observed at all times
 Observe any instructions or advice given by the laboratory staff
 Do not attempt to install, correct or operate any apparatus before reading the
instructions, and if in doubt, seek the assistance of the laboratory staff.
Safety
General
 Treat every piece of apparatus with caution
 Beware of others working in the vicinity
 Understand all safety precautions before working in the laboratories
 If in doubt, ask for assistance
Electricity
 Switch off and isolate the power supply before opening cabinet doors or attempting
to make any adjustment to the equipment
 Check all the circuits before switching on the power supply
 Do not tampers with any switches or protective gears
 Beware of dangerous voltages developed during the course of using any item of
apparatus
 Do not work on the electrical apparatus with wet hands
 Special care should be taken when bare conductors are being used to carry any
current
 Always switch off and isolate the service suppliers after using any apparatus.
Chemicals
 Treat all chemicals with extreme caution
 Use protective equipment when provided
 Know the properties of chemicals before attempting to handle them
 Alert others in the vicinity when handling poisonous, toxic, corrosive or explosive
substances.

Dept. of Civil Engineering, CIIT, Abbottabad Page iii

 Highway Engineering Lab Manual

Machines
 Do not operate any machines unless you have been trained to do so
 Use protective equipment when provided.
 Do not leave any machines in operation unattended
 Switch off and isolate the machines when not in use.
Fire Hazards
 Check for any possible danger of fire in the vicinity before producing any naked
flame
 Clean up any spilled combustible fluids immediately
 Extinguish all flames before refueling any equipment.
 Handle inflammable substances with care
 When a gas leak is suspected, extinguish all naked flames.
 Ensure there is enough ventilation before starting any combustion process.
 If the fire alarm sounds, evacuate from the laboratories immediately and assemble
at the ground floor lobby, unless there is a broadcast for other actions over internal
public address system.
Radiation Hazards
 Use protective equipment when handling any radioactive substance.
 Never leave any radioactive substance unattended.
 Never transfer any radioactive substance without a proper protective container.
Security
 Take care of your own valuables.
 Do not remove any piece of equipment from the laboratories unless authorized to
do so.
 Only enter and exit the laboratories through the established route.
 Observe the directives given by the laboratory staff.
 Do not attempt to enter or remain in the laboratory outside the opening hours.
 Report any loss or damage to laboratory equipment immediately to laboratory staff.

Dept. of Civil Engineering, CIIT, Abbottabad Page iv

 Highway Engineering Lab Manual

Table of Contents
OBJECTIVES………………………………………………………………………………...……...ii
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS…………………….…………………………………………………....iii
EXPERIMENT NO: 01........................................................................................................................1
PENETRATION TEST OF BITUMEN (ASTM D 5-05)................................................................1
EXPERIMENT NO: 02........................................................................................................................4
DUCTILITY TEST OF BITUMEN (ASTM D 113-07) .................................................................4
EXPERIMENT NO: 03........................................................................................................................8
SOFTENING POINT TEST OF BITUMEN (ASTM D 36-95) ....................................................8
EXPERIMENT NO: 04.......................................................................................................................12
FLASH AND FIRE POINT TEST OF BITUMEN (ASTM D 92-12A) .......................................12
EXPERIMENT NO: 05......................................................................................................................14
STANDARD VISCOSITY TEST (ASTM D 2170M-10) .............................................................14
EXPERIMENT NO: 06......................................................................................................................18
EXTRACTION TEST OF BITUMEN (ASTM D 2172M-11)......................................................18
EXPERIMENT NO: 07......................................................................................................................20
PREPARATION OF JOB MIX FORMULA (AASHTO T 166-88.............................................20
EXPERIMENT NO: 08......................................................................................................................22
MARSHALL STABILITY AND FLOW TEST (ASTM D 6927-06) ..........................................22
EXPERIMENT NO: 09......................................................................................................................33
AGGREGATE IMPACT VALUE TEST (ASTM D 5874-02) ....................................................33
EXPERIMENT NO: 10......................................................................................................................35
AGGREGATE CRUSHING VALUE TEST (BS 812) .................................................................35
EXPERIMENT NO: 11......................................................................................................................37
LOS ANGELES ABRASION TEST (ASTM C 535-03) ..............................................................37
EXPERIMENT NO: 12......................................................................................................................40
SHAPE TEST FOR AGGREGATES (ASTM D 4791-10) ...........................................................40
EXPERIMENT NO: 13......................................................................................................................43
WATER ABSORPTION TEST OF AGGREGATES (ASTM C 127-12) ...................................43
EXPERIMENT NO: 14......................................................................................................................45
SPECIFIC GRAVITY OF COARSE AGGREGATES (ASTM C 127-12) ................................45
EXPERIMENT NO: 15......................................................................................................................49
CALIFORNIA BEARING RATIO (CBR) TEST (AASHTO T 193-81) ....................................49

Dept. of Civil Engineering, CIIT, Abbottabad Page v

 EXPERIMENT NO 1
PENETRATION TEST OF BITUMEN
(ASTM D: 5-97)
1. Scope
The penetration of bitumen is defined as the distance in tenths of millimeter that a standard
needle vertically penetrates in a sample of bitumen under known conditions of loading, time
and temperature. (A load of 100 grams applied for 5seconds at 25C is standardized for the test)
A small penetration value indicates that the bitumen is hard, while the high penetration value
indicates that the bitumen is soft.

2. Standard
ASTM D: 5-97
3. Significance
This test is used to determine the penetration grade of
bitumen. The behavior of bituminous materials varies
significantly with change in temperature. It is therefore
important to use the appropriate grade of bitumen that is best
suitable for the climatic conditions of the project area.
4. Apparatus
4.1. Penetrometer with control box.
4.2. Container. 55 mm diameter and 35 / 70 mm
internal height. Should have flat bottom.
4.3. Water bath with at least 10 liter capacity.
4.4. Heater
4.5. Thermometer
4.6. Specified needle
4.7. Transfer tray

5. Procedure
5.1. Soften the bitumen by heating it up to 90C to bring it to pouring consistency. Stir the
bitumen while heating to avoid local overheating and to make it homogenous.
5.2. Pour the bitumen into container to a level that when cooled to testing temperature, depth of
bitumen should be at least 10 mm more than the expected depth of penetration.
5.3. Place the prepared sample at room temperature (15C - 30C) for one hour.
 5.4. Place the container below the needle of penetrometer and gradually lower the needle to
make a contact with the bitumen. Ensure that the needle is just in contact with the sample
and no penetration is affected. Place a lamp on one side of the needle in such a way that it
creates a sharp shadow of needle on the sample. This will help in correct positioning of the
needle.
5.5. Press the push button of the control box to release the needle. The needle will penetrate the
sample under its own weight for 5 seconds and after that it will stop automatically. Note
down the reading.
5.6. Take at least three readings.
5.7. At least two samples should be tested for grade determination.

6. Calculation And Observation

6.1. Pouring temperature =
6.2. Period of cooling in room = 1hour
6.3. Room temperature =
6.4. Water bath temperature = 25o C

Penetration in 10th of (mm)

S No. Reading Reading Reading Grade
1.
2.

7. Other Test Conditions. If required, the test can be performed under following set of
conditions

Temperature Load Time

O
C (F) Grams Seconds
0 (32) 200 60
4 (39.2) 200 60
45 (113) 50 5
46.1 (115) 50 5

8. Precautions
8.1. Overheating of bitumen should be avoided. Under no condition bitumen should be
heated to 60o C above the expected softening point.
8.2. The sample is covered loosely against dust
8.3. The weight of needle and spindle assembly should be accurate i.e, 100 ± 0.05 grams.

1
 8.4. Verticality of the needle should be ensured.
8.5. Readings taken on a single sample should be at least 10 mm apart.
Practical Applications.
1.
2.
3.

2
 EXPERIMENT NO 2
DUCTILITY TEST OF BITUMEN
(ASTM-D113-86)
1. Scope
The ductility of a bituminous material is measured by the distance to which it will elongate
before breaking when two ends of a briquette specimen of the material, of the form
described, are pulled apart at a specified speed and at a specified temperature. Unless
otherwise specified, the test shall be made at a temperature of 77+ 0.90F (25+0.50C) and
with a speed of 5 cm/min + 5.0%. At other temperatures the speed should be specified.
2. Standard
ASTM-D113-86
3. Significance
This test method provides one measure of tensile properties of bituminous materials and may
be used to measure ductility for specification requirements.

4. Apparatus
3.1. Mold – the mold shall be similar in design to that shown in fig. The mold shall be made
of brass, the ends b and b/ being known as clips and the parts a and a/ as sides of the
mold. The dimensions of the assembled mold shall be as shown in fig with the variations
indicated.

3
3.2. Water Bath – the water bath shall be maintained at the specified test temperature, varying
not more than 0.180F (0.10C) from this temperature. The volume of water shall not be
less than 10 liters and the specimen shall be immersed to a depth of not less than 10 cm
and shall be supported on a perforated shelf not less than 5 cm from the bottom of the
bath.
3.3. Testing Machine – For pulling the briquette of bituminous material apart, any apparatus
may be used which is so constructed that the specimen will be continuously immersed in
water as specified, while the two clips are pulled apart at uniform speed, as specified,
without undue vibration.

4
 3.4. Thermometer – A thermometer having a range as shown below and confirming to the
requirements prescribed in specification.
Temperature Range ASTM Thermometer No
0
-8 to 32 C 630C
18 to 890F 630F
Note: In those cases where the ductility specimens are aged in the standard penetration bath
at 770F (250C), the thermometer as prescribed for test method D-5 may be substituted in
place of the above.
5 Procedure
5.1 Assemble the mold on a brass plate. Thoroughly coat the surface of the plate and interior
surfaces of the sides a and a/, Fig, of the mold with a thin layer of a mixture of glycerin
and dextrin, talc or kaolin (china clay) to prevent the material under test from sticking.
The plate upon which the mold is placed shall be perfectly flat and level so that the
bottom surface of the mold will be in contact throughout.
5.2 Carefully heat the sample to prevent local overheating until it has become sufficiently
fluid to pour. Strain the melted sample through a sieve No 50 (300um) confirming to
specification. After a thorough stirring, pour it into the mold. In filling the mold, take
care not to disarrange the parts and thus distort the briquette. In filling, pour the material
in a thin stream back and forth from end to end of the mold until the mold is more than
level full. Let the mold containing the material cool to room temperature for a period of
30 to 40 min and then place it in the water bath maintained at the specified temperature of
test for 30 min, then cut of the excess bitumen with a hot straight edged putty knife or
spatula to make the mold just level full.
5.3 Keeping specimen at standard temperature. Place the brass plate and mold, with briquette
specimen, in the water bath and keep at the specified temperature for a period of 85 to 95
min. Then remove the briquette from the plate, detach the side pieces, and immediately
test the briquette.
5.4 Testing – Attach the rings at each end of the clips to the pins or hooks in the testing
machine and pull the two clips apart at a uniform speed as specified until the briquette
ruptures. A variation of + 5% from the speed specified will be permissible. Measure the
distance in cm through which the clips have been pulled to produce rupture. While the
test is being made, the water in the tank of the testing machine shall cover the specimen
both above and below it by at least 2.5 cm and shall be kept continuously to the
temperature specified within +0.90F (0.50C).
6 Observations and Calculations
Grade of Bitumen ……………………………

5
 Pouring temperature………………………….
Test temperature……………………………..
Period of cooling in room……………………
Water bath temperature……………………

Specimen No
Test Mean value
1 2 3

Ductility value (cm)

7 Precautions
7.1 Carefully heat the sample to prevent local overheating.
7.2 Take care not to disarrange the parts and thus distort the briquette.
7.3 The water in the tank of the testing machine shall cover the specimen both above and
below it by at least 2.5 cm
7.4 Keep the water bath and the specimen at the specified temperature for the specified
period.
7.5 Pulling of the two clips apart should be at a uniform speed.
8 Practical Applications
1.
2.
3.

6
7
 EXPERIMENT NO 3
SOFTENING POINT OF BITUMEN
(AASHTO T 53-89 & ASTM D 36 – 95, Reproved 2000)
1. Scope
This test method covers the determination of the softening point of bitumen in the range from
30 to 157oC (86 to 315oF) using the ring-and-ball apparatus immersed in distilled water (30 to
80oC), USP glycerin (above 80 to 157oC), or ethylene glycol (30 to 110oC). The softening
point is the temperature at which the substance attains particular degree of softening under
specified conditions of test.
2. Standard
AASHTO T 53-89 & ASTM D 36 – 95,
Reproved 2000
3. Significance
Softening point is actually a
consistency test and consists of heating of
bituminous material until they reach at the
given consistency.
4. Apparatus
4.1. Rings. Two square-shouldered brass rings conforming to the dimensions shown in the
figure
4.2. Pouring Plate. A flat, smooth, brass plate approximately 50 by 75mm (2 by 3in).
4.3. Balls. Two steel balls, 9.5mm (3/8in) in diameter, each having a mass of 3.50 + 0.05g.
4.4. Ball-Centering Guides. Two brass guides for centering the steel balls, one for each
ring, conforming to the general shape and dimensions shown in Figure.
4.5. Bath. A glass vessel, capable of being heated, not less than 85 mm in inside diameter
and not less than 120 mm in depth from the bottom of the flare.
4.6. Ring Holder and Assembly. A brass holder designed to support the two rings in a
horizontal position, conforming to the shape and dimensions shown in Figure,
supported in the assembly illustrated in Figure. The bottom of the shouldered rings
in the ring holder shall be 25mm (1in) above the upper surface of the bottom plate,
and the lower surface of the bottom plate shall be 16 ± 3mm (5/8 ± 1/8in) from the
bottom of the bath.

8
 4.7. Thermometers
4.7.1. An ASTM Low Softening Point Thermometer, having a range from -2 to +
80°C or 30 to 180°F, and conforming to the requirements for Thermometer
15C or 15F as prescribed in Specification.
4.7.2. The appropriate thermometer shall be suspended in the assembly as shown in Figure
so that the bottom of the bulb is level with the bottom of the rings and within 13mm
(0.5in) of the rings, but not touching them or the ring holder. Substitution of
other thermometers shall not be permitted.
5. Procedure
5.1. Heat the bitumen until it comes to liquid form.
5.2. Fill the rings with bitumen and cool it to room temperature.
5.3. Assemble the apparatus with ring thermometer and place balls guide in position and fill
the bath to a depth of 4 to 4.25in.
5.4. Maintain the bath at a temperature of 4±1ºC for 15 minutes.
5.5. Place the balls on the surface of the specimen
5.6. Start the bath heater at a rate of 5ºC/ min and keep stirring as necessary.
5.7. Record the temperature when the balls pass in the rings and touch the bottom; this is the
softening point in centigrade.
5.8. The softening point to be reported as the mean of the temperatures at which the two
discs soften enough to allow each ball, enveloped in bitumen, to fall a distance of 25mm.

9
10
6. Observations and Calculations
Bitumen Grade ………………………
Period of air cooling = 1 hour

Rate of heating Rate of heating

Time (Minute) Temperature ºC Time (Minute) Temperature ºC

7. Precautions
7.1. Heat the sample with care.
7.2. The max temperature should not exceed 100oC.
7.3. Note the reading with care and raise the temperature at the rate of 5oC/minute.

8 Practical Applications
1.
2.
3.

11
 EXPERIMENT NO 4
FLASH AND FIRE POINT OF BITUMEN
(AASHTO: T 48-89 and ASTM: D-92)
1. Scope
Different bituminous materials hav quite different values of flash and fire point When the
bitumen or cut back is to be heated before mixing or application utmost care is taken to see that
heating is limited to a temperature will below the flash point.
2. Standard
AASHTO: T 48-89 and ASTM: D-92
3. Significance
This flash-point and fire-point test method is
a dynamic method and depends on definite
rates of temperature increases to control the
precision of the method. Bitumen is flammable
liquid at high temperature and therefore,
there is a risk of catching fire if care is not
exercised during construction. Its primary
use is to define the critical
temperature at and above which suitable
precautions should be taken to eliminate
fire hazards during its application.
4. Apparatus
4.1. Cleave open cup
4.2. Heater
4.3. Thermometer
5. Procedure
5.1. Heat the bitumen until it converts into liquid form with temp not exceeding 100C.
5.2. Fill the cup and place it at a room temperature for one hour.
5.3. Heat the bitumen at the rate of 5 1C/minute.
5.4. When the temperature reaches near flash point or when sparking is started the test flame
is applied to specimen.

12
 5.5. Meanwhile as the bitumen takes fire momentarily that is the flash point, record the
temperature and when it takes fire for at least 5 seconds completely that is the fire point
temperature.
5.6. The flash point is taken as the temperature read on the thermometer at the time of flame
application when flash appears first at any point on the surface of material .The heating
is continued until the volatile ignite and the bitumen continues to burns for 5seconds.
The mean value should not differ from the individual values by more than 3 0C for flash
point and by 10C for fire point.
6. Observations and Calculations
6.1. Bitumen grade …………………….
6.2. Type of equipment ....…….………………
6.3. Rate of heating …………………………

Test property Test Number Mean

1 2 3
1. Flash point
2. Fire point
3. Variation from
Mean Value

7. NHA Specifications

Serial Bitumen Grade Flash Point Fire Point 8. P

1 40/50 2320C 2420C re
2 60/70 2320C 2420C
c
3 80/100 2320C 2420C
4 120/150 2180C 228C a
ut
ions
8.1. All parts of the cup should be clean and dried.
8.2. The cup should be filled up to filling mark.
8.3. For preparation of sample liquid asphalt should be heated at lowest temperature
8.4. The mean value should not differ from the individual values by more than 30C for flash
point and by 10C for fire point.

9. Practical Applications

1.
2.

13
3.

14
 EXPERIMENT NO 5
STANDARD TEST FOR VISCOSITY OF ASPHALTS
(BS 4693: 1971 & ASTM D 88 – 94 Reapproved 1999)

1. Scope
This method determines the viscosity of cutback bitumen and road oil in arbitrary units using
the Standard Tar Viscometer. Two forms of the apparatus are described, differing in the size of
the orifice, the diameter of the larger orifice being 10 mm and the smaller 4 mm. The 10 mm
cup is used at 25oC for materials whose viscosity at that temperature and in that cup exceeds 15
sec, and at 40oC for materials whose viscosity at 25oC exceeds 500 sec. The 4 mm cup is used
at a temperature of 25oC for materials whose viscosity is less than 15 sec in the 10 mm cup at
25oC.
2. Standard
BS 4693: 1971 & ASTM D 88 – 94 Reapproved 1999

3. Significance
Viscosity is the inverse of fluidity. The degree of fluidity at the application temperature greatly
influences the ability of bituminous material to spread, penetrate into voids and also coats the
aggregate and hence affects the strength and characteristics of resulting paving mixes. At high
fluidity or low viscosity, bitumen binder simply lubricates the aggregate particles instead of
providing a uniform film thickness for binding action. Low fluidity or high viscosity does not
enable the bitumen to coat the entire surface of aggregate in the mix easily and also resists the
compactive effort and resulting mix is heterogeneous in character. This unique temperature/
viscosity relationship is important when determining the performance parameters such as the
adhesion, rheology, durability and application temperatures of bitumen.
4. Apparatus
4.1. Tar Viscometer with cups having orifice of 4 mm and 10 mm diameters.
4.2. Water Bath.
4.3. Thermometer
4.4. Thermometer Support.
4.5. Receiver Flask (a 100 ml cylinder with graduations at 20 ml, 25 ml, and 75 ml
capacities).
4.6. Time Recorder (a stop watch).

15
 Standard Tar Viscometer

Cups with 10 mm and 4 mm diameter Orifices

Stopper Being Inserted to Close the In-built Water Bath

Opening

16
 Electro-Thermal Control of Water Bath Graduated Flask Placed to Pour Tar

5. Procedure
5.1. Obtain a fresh sample free of water (< 0.2%).
5.2. Heat the sample in an oven at a temperature which is at least 50oF (28oC) below the
flash point and in any case not over 325oF (163oC) until it has become sufficiently
fluid to pour, occasionally stirring the sample to aid heat transfer and to assure
uniformity. Then allow the sample, still in the closed container, to cool to a
temperature slightly above that at which the test is to be made.
5.3. Clean the viscometer cup with a suitable solvent and then thoroughly dry it to
remove all trace of solvent.
5.4. Insert a stopper in the bottom of the viscometer cup and fill the cup with the prepared
sample.
5.5. Pass a thermometer through the central hole so that its bulb is approximately at the
geometric center of the sample.
5.6. Place the cup in the viscometer water-bath.
5.7. Set up the viscometer in a level position, fill the bath with water and adjust its
temperature and maintain it to within + 0.1oC of the test temperature for a period of
1.5 hour. Throughout the test maintain the bath temperature at this value, stirring
frequently.
5.8. Remove the thermometer and stopper.
5.9. Pour light mineral oil into the receiver up to the 20 ml graduation mark and place the
receiver directly under the orifice of the cup.
5.10. Lift the stopper and suspend it on the valve support.
5.11. Start the time recording device when liquid in the receiver reaches 25 ml graduation
mark and stop it when the liquid reaches the 75 ml graduation mark.

6. Observations and Calculations

Report the time obtained as per procedure mentioned above to the nearest whole second as the
viscosity, stating which cup was used and the temperature of the test.
Viscosity (Seconds) Test Temp oF (oC) Cup Orifice Size (mm)
________________ ________________ ___________________

17
 ________________ ________________ ___________________
________________ ________________ ___________________
________________ ________________ ___________________

7. Precision
Results of duplicate tests should not differ by more than the following amounts:-

Repeatability Reproducibility
Viscosity (seconds)
(one operator and apparatus) (different operators and apparatus)
Below 20 2 Sec 2 sec
20 – 40 2 Sec 10 % of the mean
Above 40 5 % of the mean 10 % of the mean

8. Precautions
8.1. Set up the viscometer and bath in an area where they will not be exposed to drafts or
rapid changes in air temperature, and dust or vapors that might contaminate a
sample.
8.2. Do not make viscosity measurements at temperatures below the dew point of the
room's atmosphere.
8.3. Provide adequate stirring and thermal control for the bath so that the temperature of
a test sample in the viscometer will not vary more than ±0.03°C (± 0.05°F) after
reaching the selected test temperature.
8.4. Never preheat any sample within 28°C (50°F) of its flash point, because volatility
losses might alter its composition.
8.5. Do not touch the overflow rim with the withdrawal tube; the effective liquid head of
the sample would be reduced.
9. Practical Applications

1.
2.
3.

18
19
 EXPERIMENT NO 6
EXTRACTION TEST OF BITUMEN MIX
(ASTM Designation, D2172 Method ‘A’ & AASHTO T164-90)
1. Scope
Paving mixture is tested to determine conformity with bitumen content requirement. The
process consists of dissolving the bituminous binder in the mixture of known weight in a
suitable solvent and separating the aggregate by the percentage of bituminous material is
computed.
2. Standard
ASTM Designation, D2172 Method ‘A’ & AASHTO T164-90

3. Significance
To find out the Bitumen %age in bitumen mix.
4. Apparatus
4.1. Centrifuge Extraction machine.
4.2. Filter paper.
4.3. Oven capable of being maintained at 110C
4.4. Balance 5kg capacity accuracy 0.1gm
4.5. Spatula or trowel and large flat pan/tray

20
5. Procedure
5.1. Place the bitumen mix in flat pan or tray and heat it in an oven at a temperature of
110C until it’s sufficiently soft so that the particles of the sample can be separated with
a spatula or trowel.
5.2. Weight a representative sample of about 650 ---2500 gm
5.3. Place the sample into the bowl of the extraction machine distributing it uniformly
around the periphery of the bowl.
5.4. Cover the sample with solvent (C.T.C or Petrol) allowing sufficient time for the solvent
to disintegrate the sample.
5.5. Place the bowl containing the sample and solvent in the extraction machine, fit the filter
ring (Filter paper) around the edge of the bowl and clamp the bowl tightly in place.
5.6. Start the machine; first revolve slowly then increase the speed sufficiently to allow the
dissolved bitumen to flow out of the spout.
5.7. Stop the machine, add some fresh solvent and repeat this procedure until a clear extract
emerges.
5.8. Dry the contents of the bowel in the oven at a temperature of 110C till a constant
weight is obtained and calculate the percentage of bitumen in the sample as follows:-

6. Calculation and Observation:-

Wt of sample before test =…………………………….

Wt of sample after test =……………………………
Increase in wt of filter paper (After test) =…………………………….
Wt of the total mineral aggregate =……………………………
Wt of bitumen content =……………………………
Percentage of bitumen content =……………………………

Gradation of Mineral Aggregate after Test

Specification
Sieve Wt.
Cum wt. Passing % %passing
size Retained

3 / 4”
1 / 2”
3/8
#4
# 10
#20

21
 # 40
# 60
# 200
Pan
Total

7. Precautions
7.1. Heat the sample with care.
7.2. Avoid heat and open flames.
7.3. Keep container tightly closed.
7.4. Gloves should be worn
7.5. Good ventilation while the test is being performed.
7.6. All equipment should be cleaned frequently to prevent testing errors.

8. Practical Applications

1.
2.
3.

22
 EXPERIMENT NO 7
PREPARATION OF JOB MIX
(AASHTO: T166-88, T245-90, T269-90, T228-90, T 84-88 & 85-88 )
1. Scope.
The design of asphalt mix, as with other engineering materials designs, is largely a matter of
selecting and proportioning materials to obtain the desired proportion is the finished
construction. The overall objectives for the design of asphalt paving mixes is to determine an
economical blend and gradation of aggregate and asphalt that yields a good and durable
pavement structure.
2. Standard
AASHTO: T166-88, T245-90, T269-90, T228-90, T 84-88 & 85-88
3. Significance
Design of asphalt paving mixes
4. Apparatus.
4.1. Specimen mold assembly
4.2. Specimen Extractor
4.3. Balance (1.0gm-----3kg)
4.4. Heater
4.5. Oven (0------200 C)
4.6. Mixing apparatus
4.7. Thermometer (0----200 C)
4.8. Rubber and canvas Gloves
4.9. Hot plate
5. Procedure.
5.1. Take about 1150 gm. of aggregate material according to the specification.
5.2. Add bitumen content at different %ages (about 3 to 6%) and heat at a temperature of 150
C.
5.3. Mix the aggregate and bitumen thoroughly so that each particle is well coated.
5.4. Check the temperature time by time so, that it does not exceed the standard temperature
(163±5C).
5.5. Place the mixed material in the assembly and heat the mold before placing the mix.

23
 5.6. Used the technique during placing of mix and compact the material according to the type
of traffic i.e. low load, medium, and heavy load (35, 50, 75 blows each side) respectively
at a temperature 143± 5 C.
5.7. After compaction bring the mold in room temperature and extract the specimens
5.8. Determine the density and voids.
6. Observation & Calculation
Effectiv
%age Bulk Apparen
S No. Description e Sp.
used Sp. Gr. t Sp. Gr.
Gr.
1. Coarse Agg Ret on # 4 sieve 50 2.74 2.81 2.78
Fine Agg passing # 4 &Ret on # 200
2. 44.5 2.71 2.78 2.75
sieve
3 Filler passing # 200sieve 5.5 2.62 2.62 2.62
4. Bitumen 1.03 1.03 1.03

Gradation

Retained Wt.
Sieve Specification limits Mid limits % Retained
(gm.) Ret. Wt =
Size (Passing %) (Passing %)
Ret%x1150/100
3/4” 100 100 -- --
1 / 2” 75 – 90 82.5 100-82.5 = 17.5 201
3 / 8” 60 – 80 70 82.5-70 = 12.5 144
#4 40 – 60 50 70-50 = 20 230
$8 20 – 40 30 50-30 = 20 230
#50 5 – 15 10 30-10 = 20 230
#200 3–8 5.5 10- 5.5 = 4.5 52
-- 200 -- -- 1-94.5 = 5.5 63

7. Precautions
7-1 Mixing should be uniform
7-2 Heat the sample carefully
7-3 Gloves should be worn

8. Practical Applications
1.
2.
3.

24
25
 EXPERIMENT NO 8
MARSHALL FLOW AND STABILITY TEST FOR JOB MIX
(AASHTO: T166-88, T245-90, T269-90, T228-90, T 84-88 & 85-88 )
1. Scope.
This test covers the measurement of stability and flow of cylindrical specimen of bituminous
pavement mixture loaded on lateral surface by means of marshal machine.

2. Standard
AASHTO: T166-88, T245-90, T269-90, T228-90, T 84-88 & 85-88
3. Significance
The Marshall Stability and flow test
provides the performance
prediction measure for the Marshall
Mix design method. This test attempts
to get the optimum binder content for the
aggregate mix type and traffic
intensity.
4. Apparatus
2.1 Marshall machine
2.2 Water bath
2.3 Oven (0------200 C)
2.4 Thermometer (0----200 C)
2.5 Rubber and canvas Gloves
5. Procedure:

5.1. Place the specimen in water bath for 30 minutes at temperature of 60C
5.2. After 30 minutes immersion the specimens are tested for stability and flow.
5.3. The stability values obtained or corrected when the height of the specimen tested is other
than 2-1/2 in using correction factors.

6. Observation & Calculation

Bulk Combined Sp. Gr. (Gsb) = ____________________100___________________
% C.A/Bulk S G+%F.A/Bulk S G+% Fine/Bulk S G

26
 Effective Sp. Gr. (Gse) =____________________100______________________
%C.A/Effect S.G+%F.A/Effect S.G+% Filler/Effect S.G

Bulk Sp. Gr. of compacted mix (Gmb) = A/ (B-C)

Where,
A= wt of specimen in air gm.
B= wt of specimen S.S.D gm.
C= wt of specimen in water gm.

Max Theoretical Sp. Gr. (Gmm) = 100 / (%Agg/Gse+% A.C/S G of A.C)

Percent Air Voids (P.A.V) = Gmm-Gmb/Gmm x 100

Voids in mineral aggregate (V.M.A) = 100-Gmmx%Aggregate/Gsb

Voids filled with bitumen (V.F.B) = V.M.A-P.A.V/V.M.A x 100

7. Specification For Wearing Coarse

7.1. Stability 1000kg Min
7.2. Flow 2-----3.5mm
7.3. P.A.V 3-----5 %
7.4. V.M.A 14min
7.5. V.F.B 65----75 %
7.6. Loss of Stability 20% of max

Table No.2
Specimen Bitumen Stability value (Kg)
Flow value 0.25/0.1 mm
No. content Measured Corrected
units
Percent
1.
2.
3.
Average
1.
2.
3.
Average

27
1.
2.
3.
Average

28
8. Stability Correction Ratio
Volume of Approximate Volume of Approximate
Correctio Correctio
specimen thickness of specimen thickness of
n ratio n ratio
Cm3 specimen mm Cm3 specimen mm
200 to 213 25.4 5.56 393 to 405 49.2 1.56
214 to 215 27.0 5.0 406 to 420 50.8 1.47
226 to 237 28.6 4.55 421 to 431 52.4 1.39
238 to 250 30.2 4.17 432 to 443 54.0 1.32
251 to 264 31.8 385 444 to 456 55.6 1.25
265 to 276 33.3 3.5 457 to 470 57.2 1.19
277 to 289 34.9 3.33 471 to 482 58.7 1.14
290 to 301 36.5 3.03 483 to 495 60.3 1.09
302 to 316 38.1 2.76 496 to 508 61.9 1.04
317 to 328 39.7 2.5 509 to 522 63.5 1.0
329 to 340 41.3 2.27 523 to 535 64.0 0.96
341 to 353 42.9 2.08 536 to 546 65.1 0.93
354 to 367 44.4 1.92 547 to 559 66.7 0.89
368 to 379 46.0 1.79 560 to 573 68.3 0.86
380 to 392 47.6 1.67 574 to 585 71.4 0.83

29
9. Marshal Test Graphs
Unit W eight (gm/cc)

PAV (%)
Asphalt Content %
Asphalt Content %
Flow (mm)

Stability (Kg)

Asphalt Content % Asphalt Content %

VFB (%)

Asphalt Content %

30
Unit Weight (gm/cc)

Asphalt Content (%)

31
PAV (%)

Asphalt Content (%)

32
Flow (mm)

Asphalt Content (%)

33
Stability (kg)

Asphalt Content (%)

34
VFB (%)

Asphalt Content (%)

35
Note:-Graphs should be plotted between
%A.C vs. Stability
%A.C vs. Flow
%A.C vs. Unit weight
%A.C vs. P.A.V (A tolerance of one percent of air voids may be permitted)
%A.C vs. V.M.A
%A.C vs. V.F.B

10. Results
Asphalt content at maximum unit weight (a) =
Asphalt content at maximum Stability (b) =
Asphalt content at 4% (1) PAV (c) =
Optimum Asphalt content (a + b+ c / 3) =

Table 1
Specimen %age of Bitumen
No. Aggregate content % Weights (gm.)

In air In water SSD Wt. Vol.of Speci

1 2 3 4 5 6=5-4
1.
2.
3.
Avg

1.
2.
3.
Avg

1.
2.
3.
Avg

1.
2.
3.
3.
Avg

36
 Bulk Bit.Gs Gse of Max Theo PAV VMA VFB
density Agg Gs (Gmm)
(Gmb)

7=3/6 8 9 10=100/ 11=10- 12=100--7x1/Gsb 13=12--

(1/9+2/8) 7/10x100 11/12x100

11. Precautions
11-1 Mixing should be uniform
11-2 Heat the sample carefully
11-3 Gloves should be worn
11-4 Give Blows gently to avoid any injury.

12.Practical Applications
1.
2.
3.

37
38
 EXPERIMENT NO 9
AGGREGATE IMPACT VALUE TEST
ASTM D5874 - 02
1. Scope:
Aggregate impact value gives the relative strength of aggregates against impact loading.
2. Standard
ASTM D5874 - 02
3. Significance
Toughness is the property of material to
resist impact due to traffic loads. The road
stones are subjected to the pounding action or
impact and there is possibility of aggregate
stone breaking into smaller pieces. The road
aggregate should therefore be tough enough to
resist fracture under impact.
4. Apparatus:
4.1. Impact testing machine
4.2. Weighing balance
4.3. Sieve 14mm, 10mm, 2.36mm
4.4. Oven
4.5. Cup of dia 10.2cm and depth 5cm
4.6. Temping rod of dia 1.0cm and 23cm long

5. Procedure:
5.1. About 350g of aggregate passing 14mm sieve and retained on 10mm sieve are
selected.
5.2. Place the aggregate in the impact testing machine cup and tamp each layer with 25
blows using temping road.
5.3. The aggregate is subjected to 15 blows by a standard rammer of weight 14 kg falling
from 38cm.
5.4. After the application of specified number of blows the aggregate is taken out from the
cup and sieved through 2.36mm and %age of passing material is calculated
5.5. Results are calculated as percentage fines passing 2.36mm sieve.

39
6. Observations & Calculations:

Wt of aggregates passing 14mm and retained on 10mm sieve A =__________

Wt of fines passing 2.36mm sieve B = ________________

Impact value of aggregate = B/A*100 (%) = ___________________

7. Specification:
7.1. Exceptionally strong = Less than 10%
7.2. Strong = 10% to 20%
7.3. Satisfactory for road construction = 20% 30%

8. Precautions
8.1. Use gloves while removing containers from oven after switching off the oven.
8.2. Wear safety shoes & goggles at the time of testing.
8.3. Before testing, machine should be properly checked.
8.4. Special care should be taken that no outer air enters when using the balance.
8.5. After performing the test, clean the sieve with a smooth brush.
8.6. Keep all the exposed metal parts greased.
8.7. Keep the guide rods firmly fixed to the base & top plate.
8.8. Equipment should be cleaned thoroughly before testing & after testing.

9. Practical Applications
1.
2.
3.

40
 EXPERIMENT NO 10
AGGREGATE CRUSHING VALUE TEST
BS: 812 & IS: 383-2386

1. Scope
This test is to determine the indirect measure of crushing value of aggregate. Low aggregate
crushing value indicates strong aggregate as the crushed fraction is low.
2. Standard
BS: 812 & IS: 383-2386
3. Significance
Aggregate used in road construction should be strong enough to resist crushing under
traffic wheel load. If the aggregate is weak, the stability of the pavement structure is likely
to be adversely affected.
4. Apparatus:
4.1. Steel cylinder with open ends.
(15.2cm dia and 15cm height)
4.2. Cylindrical measure inner dia
11.5cm, height 18cm
4.3. Tamping rod with rounded ends.
(1.6cm Dai and 60cm length)
4.4. Compression machine. (50 ton
capacity)
4.5. Weighing Balance

5. Procedure:
5.1. Wash the sample thoroughly and oven dry.
5.2. The aggregate passing from 14mm sieve and retained on 10mm (9.5 mm) sieve are
selected for test.
5.3. Place the aggregate in three equal layers in the cylindrical measure and each layer
may be tamped 25 blows and then weigh.
5.4. Place the cylinder of the test apparatus in position on the base plate, and place the
aggregate in three layers in the cylinder, each layer may be tamped with 25blows.
5.5. Insert the plunger in the cylinder and subject it in the compression machine.
5.6. Apply the load at a rate of 4 Ton/ minute up to 40 Ton.

41
 5.7. Sieve the materials from 2.36 mm sieve and determine the %age of fines passing.
5.8. Results are reported as %age fine passing 2.36mm sieve after crushing.

6. Calculation:
6.1. Weight of dry sample before test, W1 = _____________
6.2. Weight of fines passing from 2.36mm sieve after test, W2 = __________
6.3. Aggregate Crushing Value = W2/W x100 (%) = _________________

7. Specification:
7.1. Base coarse < 30%
7.2. Wearing coarse < 15%

8. Precautions
8.1. Use hand gloves while removing containers from oven after switching off the oven.
8.2. To wear safety shoes & goggles at the time of testing.
8.3. Before testing, machine should be properly checked.
8.4. Special care should be taken that no outer air enters when using the balance.
8.5. After test clean the sieve by a smooth brush.
8.6. Keep all the exposed metal parts greased.
8.7. Keep the guide rods firmly fixed to the base & top plate.
8.8. Equipment should be cleaned thoroughly before testing & after testing.

9. Practical Applications

1.
2.
3.

42
 EXPERIMENT NO 11
LOS ANGELES ABRASION TEST
ASTM C 535 & AASHTO T-96
1. Scope
This test is to determine the hardness of aggregate. Aggregates with distinctly different
origins should be expected to perform differently in this test machine.

2. Standard
ASTM C 535 & AASHTO T-96

3. Significance
Aggregate used in road
construction should be strong enough
to resist the wear due the heavy traffic
load. If the aggregate have high
abrasion value the stability of road
pavement is likely to be
adversely affected.

4. Apparatus
4.1. Loss Angeles abrasion machine
4.2. Balance
4.3. Oven (maintaining a uniform temperature of 230 ±9°F)
4.4. Set of sieves and sieve No.12, Steel balls/Charge (390/445gm) approx. 127/32 inches
in dia.
4.5. Shelf/trays

5. Sample Preparation:
5.1. The disturbed representative test sample shall consist of clean washed aggregate that
has been oven-dried to constant mass at a temperature of 230 ±9° F. Separate the
sample into individual size fractions by sieving, and recombine to the grading of Table

43
 1 or Table 2 that most nearly corresponds to the range of sizes in the aggregate as
furnished for testing. The sample mass shall be recorded to the nearest 1 g.

6. Procedure:
6.1. The test sample should be thoroughly washed and oven dried and is taken according to
gradation in tables.
6.2. The test sample and abrasive charges shall be placed in the Los Angeles abrasion
machine and the machine is rotated at a speed of 30 to 33 Rpm for 500 revolutions for
test method AASHTO T 96; 1000 revolutions for test method ASTM C 535.
6.3. After the prescribed number of revolutions the material shall be discharged carefully
from the machine and shall be sieved on 1.7mm (#12) sieve.
6.4. Wash the material coarser than the No. 12 sieve, dry to constant mass at 230 ±9 0F,
and record mass to the nearest 1 g.
7. TABLE 1 AASHTO T-96 Sample Grading for Small size Aggregates.

8. TABLE 2 ASTM C535 Sample Grading for large size Aggregates.

44
9. Observations and Calculations:
Weight of dry sample before test, W1 = ______________

Weight of sample passing from 12 # sieve, W2 = _______________

Or W2 =original sample mass –final sample mass

Abrasion value of Aggregate = W2x100/W1 (%) = ____________________

10. Specification:
10.1. Granular Sub Base: The coarse aggregate materials retained on sieve No. 4 shall
have a percentage of wear by Los Angeles abrasion test (AASHTO T-96) of not
more than 50 %.
10.2. Aggregate Base Course: The coarse aggregate material retained on sieve No.4 shall
have a percentage of wear by Los Angeles abrasion test (AASHTO T-96) of not
more than 40%.
11. Precautions
11.1. The Los Angeles abrasion testing machine shall be periodically checked for wear
and maintained to comply with the original specifications.
11.2. Laboratory must be in closed area especially at the measuring area to avoid the
wind resistance which can affect the weight data or closed box of measuring
machine.
11.3. After doing the experiment, all the apparatus must been cleaned and kept at a
clean place to avoid any dust entering the apparatus.
11.4. Machine must be maintained regularly. All the damages must be repaired before
being used by the student. It will also help in avoiding accidents in laboratory.

45
 11.5. The accurate amount of steel balls will make the collected data more efficient. The
sample will break into what we are supposed to get.

12. Practical Applications

1.
2.
3.

46
 EXPERIMENT NO 12
SHAPE TEST FOR AGGREGATES
ASTM D 4791-99
1. Scope:
This test method covers the determination of the percentages of flaky and elongated
particles, and in case of gravel determine by its Angularity No. The flakiness index of
aggregate is the percentage of the mass of the aggregates whose least dimension is less than
0.6 times the mean dimension. The flakiness test is applicable to aggregates of size larger
than 6.3.Elongated particles greatest dimension is greater than 1.8 times their mean size
(dimension) and the angularity number of an aggregate is the amount (to the nearest whole
number) by which the % age voids in it after compacting in a prescribed manner, exceeds
33.
2. Standard
ASTM D 4791-99

3. Significance
Rounded aggregates are
preferred in concrete
pavements for their higher
workability and
crushing. Angular shape
aggregates are used in flexible
pavement for their better
interlocking and
friction.
4. Apparatus:
4.1. Flaky sieves
4.2. Elongation gauges
4.3. Set of sieves
4.4. Balance
4.5. Cylinder 3 Liter capacity
4.6. Tamping rod, Oven and Scoop
5. Procedure:

47
 5.1 Flakiness & Elongation of Aggregates
5.1.1 If determination by mass is required, oven dry the sample to constant mass at a
temperature (105 ˚C).
5.1.2 If determination is by particle count, drying is not necessary.
5.1.3 The given sample is sieved through square opening sieves; the retained particles
are weighed and denoted as W1, W2, and W3---Wn.
5.1.4 The sample is placed in separate plates, passing and retained sieve size for each
fraction is written on the plate.
5.1.5 The sample is passed by its least dimension through the corresponding opening of
the flaky sieves. Weigh separately and record as F1, F2, and F3--------------Fn.
5.1.6 Collect all the material passed and retained, now pass this material through the
Elongation gauge. The retained material on elongation gauge are weighted and
recorded as E1, E2-------En.
5.2 Angularity Number
5.2.1 Take at least 10 Kg of aggregate sample and sieve with specified sieves,
5.2.2 The sample should be placed in cylinder in three equal layers
5.2.3 Each layer should be tamped 100 times by means of a tamping rod.
5.2.4 Weigh the cylinder with aggregate and determine the weight of aggregate (W).
5.2.5 At least three readings are taken.
5.2.6 Find the volume of cylinder with water at 27 ˚C.
6 Observations and Calculations:

Flakiness Index = ∑F x 100 / ∑W = %

Elongation Index = ∑E x 100 / ∑W = %

48
 Angularity No = 67 – W x100 / (Ww x Gs) =
Where,
W = wt of aggregate in cylinder
Ww = wt of water in cylinder
Gs = Specific gravity of aggregate
7. Specification:
7.1. Flakiness Index < 15 %
7.2. Elongation Index < 15 %
7.3. Angularity Number = 0 to 11
8. Precautions
8.1. Use hand gloves while removing containers from oven after switching off the oven.
8.2. Use safety shoes, mask & aprons at the time of test.
8.3. Thoroughly clean & dry the container before testing.
8.4. Special care should be taken that no outer air enters when using the balance.
8.5. All parts of the equipment should always be kept clean.
8.6. After the completion of test sieves should be cleaned by smooth brush.
9. Practical Applications

1.
2.
3.

49
 EXPERIMENT NO 13
WATER ABSORPTION TEST OF AGGREGATES
ASTM C 127-12
1. Scope
This test helps to determine the water absorption of coarse aggregates.

2. Standard
ASTM C 127-12

3. Significance
Stones having higher water absorption values are porous
and hence weak. Higher value of water absorption
implies more Bitumen absorption. Freeze and thawing
effect would be larger for more water absorption.
4. Apparatus:
4.1. Wire basket – perforated, electroplated or plastic
coated with wire hangers for suspending it from the
balance,
4.2. Water-tight container for suspending the basket,
4.3. Dry soft absorbent cloth – 75cm x 45cm (2 nos.),
4.4. Shallow tray of minimum 650 sq.cm area,
4.5. Air-tight container of a capacity similar to the basket and Oven.

5. Procedure:
5.1. The sample should be thoroughly washed to remove finer particles and dust, drained and then
placed in the wire basket and immersed in distilled water at a temperature between 22 and 32 C.
5.2. After immersion, the entrapped air should be removed by lifting the basket and allowing it to
drop 25 times in 25 seconds. The basket and sample should remain immersed for a period of 24
+ ½ hours afterwards.
5.3. The basket and aggregates should then be removed from the water, allowed to drain for a few
minutes, after which the aggregates should be gently emptied from the basket on to one of the
dry clothes and gently surface-dried with the cloth, transferring it to another dry cloth when the
first would remove no further moisture. The aggregates should be spread on the other cloth and

50
 exposed to the atmosphere away from direct sunlight till it appears to be completely surface-
dry. The aggregates should be weighed (Weight ‘A’).
5.4. The aggregates should then be placed in an oven at a temperature of 100 to 110˚C for 24hrs. It
should then be removed from the oven, cooled and weighed (Weight ‘B’).
5.5. Two such tests should be done and the individual and mean results should be reported.

6. Observations and Calculations:

Observation-1
Weight of saturated surface dry sample, A = _______________

Weight of oven dry sample, B = _______________

Water absorption = [(A - B)/B] x 100% = ______________________

Observation-2
Weight of saturated surface dry sample, A = _______________

Weight of oven dry sample, B = _______________

Water absorption = [(A - B)/B] x 100% = ______________________

Mean Water absorption = ____________________

7. Precautions
7-1Thoroughly clean & dry the container before testing.
7-2 Special care should be taken that no outer air enters when using the balance.
7-3 To wear safety shoes & apron at the time of test.

8. Practical Applications

1.
2.
3.

51
 EXPERIMENT NO 14
SPECIFIC GRAVITY OF COARSE AGGREGATES
ASTM C 127-12
1. Scope
This test is done to determine the specific gravity of fine-grained soil by density bottle method.
Specific gravity is the ratio of the weight in air of a given volume of a material at a standard
temperature to the weight in air of an equal volume of distilled water at the same stated
temperature.
2. Standard
ASTM C 127-12

3. Significance
In the asphalt mix design industry, the bulk specific
gravity and absorption of the aggregates, both fine and coarse, is
crucial for quality asphalt design. Bulk specific gravity is
used to determine the amount of asphalt binder absorbed by
the aggregates and the percentage of voids in the mineral
aggregates which are both important in design and quality
control.

4. Apparatus:
4.1. Two density bottles of approximately 50ml
capacity along with stoppers,
4.2. Constant temperature water bath (27.0 + 0.2 C),
4.3. Vacuum desiccator,
4.4. Oven, capable of maintaining a temperature of 105 to 110 C
4.5. Weighing balance, with an accuracy of 0.001g,
4.6. Spatula

5. Preparation of Sample
The soil sample (50g) should if necessary be ground to pass through a 2mm IS Sieve. A 5 to 10g
sub-sample should be obtained by riffling and oven-dried at a temperature of 105 to 110 C.
6. Procedure:

52
 6.1. The density bottle along with the stopper, should be dried at a temperature of 105 to
110 C, cooled in the desiccator and weighed to the nearest 0.001g (W).
6.2. The sub-sample, which had been oven-dried, should be transferred to the density bottle
directly from the desiccator in which it was cooled. The bottles and contents together
with the stopper should be weighed to the nearest 0.001g (W).
6.3. Cover the soil with air-free distilled water from the glass wash bottle and leave for a
period of 2 to 3hrs for soaking. Add water to fill the bottle to about half.
6.4. Entrapped air can be removed by heating the density bottle on a water bath or a sand
bath.
6.5. Keep the bottle without the stopper in a vacuum desiccator for about 1 to 2hrs, until
there is no further loss of air.
6.6. Gently stir the soil in the density bottle with a clean glass rod, carefully wash off the
adhering particles from the rod with some drops of distilled water and see that no more
soil particles are lost.
6.7. Repeat the process till no more air bubbles are observed in the soil-water mixture.
6.8. Observe the constant temperature in the bottle and record.
6.9. Insert the stopper in the density bottle, wipe and weigh (W).
6.10. Now empty the bottle, clean thoroughly and fill the density bottle with distilled water
at the same temperature. Insert the stopper in the bottle, wipe dry from the outside and
weigh (W).
6.11. Take at least two such observations for the same soil.

7. Observations and Calculations

53
54
8. Precautions:

55
8.1. When tare weight is used to compensate for the weight of the suspended basket, be
certain the correct tare weight is used.
8.2. Thoroughly clean & dry the container before testing.
8.3. Special care should be taken that no outer air enters when using the balance.
8.4. Use apron & safety shoes at the time of testing.
8.5. All parts of the equipment should always be kept clean.
9. Practical Applications

1.
2.
3.

56
 EXPERIMENT NO 15
CALIFORNIA BEARING RATIO (CBR) TEST
AASHTO T 192-81
1. Scope
This laboratory method covers the determination of C.B.R. of undisturbed and remolded
/compacted soil specimens, both in soaked as well as unsoaked state. The California bearing ratio
test is a penetration test meant for the evaluation of subgrade strength of roads and pavements.
The results obtained by these tests are used with the empirical curves to determine the thickness of
pavement and its component layers. This is the most widely used method for the design of flexible
pavement. It is the ratio of force per unit area required to penetrate a soil mass with standard
circular piston at the rate of 1.25 mm/min. to that required for the corresponding penetration of a
standard material. The test may be performed on undisturbed specimens and on remolded
specimens who may be compacted either statically or dynamically.

2. Standard
AASHTO T 192-81

3. Significance
The California bearing ratio (CBR) is a penetration
test for evaluation of the mechanical
strength of road subgrades and base courses. It
gives corporative idea of strength of various
locally available materials.
4. Apparatus:
9.1. Cylindrical mold with inside dia 150
mm and height 175 mm, provided with
a detachable extension collar 50 mm
height and a detachable perforated base plate 10 mm thick
9.2. Spacer disc 148 mm in dia and 47.7 mm in height along with handle, Metal rammers
9.3. Weight 2.6 kg with a drop of 310 mm (or) weight 4.89 kg a drop 450 mm
9.4. Weights. One annular metal weight and several slotted weights weighing 2.5 kg each,
147 mm in dia, with a central hole 53 mm in diameter

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 9.5. Loading machine, With a capacity of at least 5000 kg and equipped with a movable
head or base that travels at an uniform rate of 1.25 mm/min. Complete with load
indicating device
9.6. Metal penetration piston 50 mm dia and minimum of 100 mm in length
9.7. Two dial gauges reading to 0.01 mm
9.8. Sieves. 4.75 mm and 20 mm I.S. Sieves
9.9. Miscellaneous apparatus, such as a mixing bowl, straight edge, scales soaking tank or
pan, drying oven, filter paper and containers.
5. Preparation of Sample
5.1. Undisturbed specimen:
Attach the cutting edge to the mold and push it gently into the ground. Remove the soil from the
outside of the mold which is pushed in. When the mold is full of soil, remove it from weighing the
soil with the mold or by any field method near the spot.
5.2. Remolded specimen
Prepare the remolded specimen at Proctor’s maximum dry density or any other density at which
C.B.R> is required. Maintain the specimen at optimum moisture content or the field moisture as
required. The material used should pass 20 mm I.S. sieve but it should be retained on 4.75 mm I.S.
sieve. Prepare the specimen either by dynamic compaction or by static compaction.
6. Procedure:
6.1. Dynamic Compaction:
6.1.1. Take about 4.5 to 5.5 kg of soil and mix thoroughly with the required water.
6.1.2. Fix the extension collar and the base plate to the mold. Insert the spacer disc over the base
(See Fig.38). Place the filter paper on the top of the spacer disc.
6.1.3. Compact the mixed soil in the mold using either light compaction or heavy compaction.
For light compaction, compact the soil in 3 equal layers, each layer being given 55 blows
by the 2.6 kg rammer. For heavy compaction compact the soil in 5 layers, 56 blows to each
layer by the 4.89 kg rammer.
6.1.4. Remove the collar and trim off soil.
6.1.5. Turn the mold upside down and remove the base plate and the displacer disc.
6.1.6. Weigh the mold with compacted soil and determine the bulk density and dry density.
6.1.7. Put filter paper on the top of the compacted soil (collar side) and clamp the perforated base
plate on to it.
6.2. Static compaction
6.2.1. Calculate the weight of the wet soil at the required water content to give the desired
density when occupying the standard specimen volume in the mold from the expression.

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 W =desired dry density * (1+w) V
Where W = Weight of the wet soil
w = desired water content
V = volume of the specimen in the mold as per the mold available

6.2.2. Take the weight W (calculated as above) of the mix soil and place it in the mold. Place a
filter paper and the displacer disc on the top of soil.
6.2.3. Keep the mold assembly in static loading frame and compact by pressing the displacer disc
till the level of disc reaches the top of the mold.
6.2.4. Keep the load for some time and then release the load. Remove the displacer disc.
6.2.5. The test may be conducted for both soaked as well as un-soaked conditions.
6.2.6. If the sample is to be soaked, in cases of compaction, put a filter paper on the top of the
soil and place the adjustable stem and perforated plate on the top of filter paper.
6.2.7. Put annular weights to produce a surcharge equal to weight of base material and pavement
expected in actual construction. Each 2.5 kg weight is equivalent to 7 cm construction. A
minimum of two weights should be put.
6.2.8. Immerse the mold assembly and weights in a tank of water and soak it for 96 hours.
6.2.9. Remove the mold from tank.
6.2.10. Note the consolidation of the specimen.
6.3. Penetration Test
6.3.1. Place the mold assembly with the surcharge weights on the penetration test machine.
6.3.2. Set the penetration piston at the center of the specimen with the smallest possible load, but
in no case in excess of 4 kg so that full contact of the piston on the sample is established.
6.3.3. Set the stress and strain dial gauge to read zero. Apply the load on the piston so that the
penetration rate is about 1.25 mm/min.
6.3.4. Record the load readings at penetrations of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 4.0, 5.0, 7.5, 10 and
12.5 mm. Note the maximum load and corresponding penetration if it occurs for a
penetration less than 12.5 mm.
6.3.5. Detach the mold from the loading equipment. Take about 20 to 50 g of soil from the top 3
cm layer and determine the moisture content.
7. Observations and Calculations
7.1. For Dynamic Compaction
Optimum water content (%) ……………………………..
Weight of mold + compacted specimen g …………………………
Weight of empty mold g ………………………………..
Weight of compacted specimen g……………………………….
Volume of specimen cm3 ……………………………….

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 Bulk density g/cc …………………………………….
Dry density g/cc ……………………………………..

7.2. For Static Compaction

Dry density g/cc ………………………………….
Molding water content % ……………………………………..
Wet weight of the compacted soil, (W)g ……………………………..
Period of soaking 96 hrs (4days).……………………………………

7.3. For penetration Test

Calibration factor of the proving ring 1 Div. = 1.176 kg
Surcharge weight used (kg) 2.0 kg per 6 cm construction
Water content after penetration test % ………………
Least count of penetration dial 1 Div. = 0.01 mm

If the initial portion of the curve is concave upwards, apply correction by drawing a tangent to the
curve at the point of greatest slope and shift the origin. Find and record the correct load reading
corresponding to each penetration.
C.B.R. = PT/Ps x 100
Where
PT = Corrected test load corresponding to the chosen penetration from the load penetration curve.
Ps = Standard load for the same penetration taken from the Table1.

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8. Interpretation & Recording
C.B.R. of specimen at 2.5 mm penetration ………………………………..
C.B.R. of specimen at 5.0 mm penetration ...……………………………….
C.B.R. of specimen ………………………………….
9. Specification:
The C.B.R. values are usually calculated for penetration of 2.5 mm and 5 mm. Generally the
C.B.R. value at 2.5 mm will be greater that at 5 mm and in such a case/the former shall be taken as
C.B.R. for design purpose. If C.B.R. for 5 mm exceeds that for 2.5 mm, the test should be
repeated. If identical results follow, the C.B.R. corresponding to 5 mm penetration should be taken
for design. The following table gives the standard loads adopted for different penetrations for the
standard material with a C.B.R. value of 100%

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10. Precautions
9.10. The maximum size of material particles to be tested is limited to 19 mm. Therefore in
case of gravels initial sieving is essential.
9.11. Blows should be applied uniformly over the entire surface of soil in mold.
9.12. Clean the sieves with the help of a brush, after sieving
9.13. While weighing put the sieve with soil sample on the balance in a concentric position.
9.14. Check the electric connection of the sieve shaker before conducting the test.

11. Practical Applications

1.
2.
3.

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