BMC Lab Manual

MATERIALS LABORATORY
Contents
Exp AREA Name of the Experiment Page No
No.
1 Determination of Fineness of cement 1
2 Determination of normal consistency of cement 4
3 Determination of initial & final setting time of cement 7
4 Determination of specific gravity of cement 12

CEM
5 ENT Determination of compressive strength of cement 14
6 Verification of soundness of cement by Le-Chatelier Apparatus method 18
7 Verification of soundness of cement by Autoclave Method 22
8 Determination of tensile strength of cement 27
9 Determination of Gradation of Fine Aggregate by Sieve Analysis 31
10 Determination of Gradation of Coarse Aggregate by Sieve Analysis 36
11 Determination of Flakiness index of Coarse Aggregate 40
12 Determination of Elongation index of Coarse Aggregate 43
13 Determination of Specific gravity and Water absorption of fine Aggregate 47
14
AGG Determination of Specific gravity and Water absorption of Coarse Aggregate 57
REG
ATE
15 Determination of Bulking Factor of sand 55
16 Determination of Fine sand, Clay & Silt content of sand (Field Method) 58
17 Determination of Fine sand, Clay & Silt content of sand 60
18 Determination of Aggregate Crushing value 64
19 Determination of Aggregate Impact value 67
20 Determination of workability of concrete by Slump test 70
21
CON Determination of workability of concrete by Compaction Factor test 73
CRE
TE
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22 Determination of workability of concrete by Vee Bee table 78
22 (a) Determination of workability of concrete by Flow table A-B
23 Determination of Compressive strength of Concrete cubes & cylinders 82
24 Determination of dimension of bricks 86
25 Determination of Compressive Strength of Bricks 88

BRIC
26 KS Determination of Water absorption of Bricks 90
27 Determination of Efflorescence of Bricks 92
28 Determination of strength of hardened concrete by Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity. 94
29 NDT Determination of compressive strength of hardened concrete by Rebound 97

Hammer.
30 Determination of tensile strength of steel reinforcement (Dia: 8 mm & 12mm)
UTM using Universal Testing Machine (UTM)
**Note:
● ASTM: American Society for Testing and Materials

● IS: Indian Standards
● NDT: Non Destructive Test
● UTM: Universal Testing Machine
2 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO.1: Determination of Fineness of Cement by Sieving
AIM: To determine the Fineness of Cement by Sieving
PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES:
a) To explain the reaction of water with cements particles.

b) To explain the phenomena of hydration and rapid hardening due to greater fineness.
c) To explain the link of fineness of cement with gypsum and shrinkage.
d) To set up the apparatus.
e) To follow the procedural steps with precautions.
f) To record the observations appropriately.
g) To prepare a report as per instruction.
THEORY:
Strength development of concrete is the result of the chemical reaction of water with cement particles.
The reaction always starts at the surface of the cement particles. Thus larger the surface area available for
reaction, greater is the rate of hydration and strength development. Rapid development of strength
requires greater degree of fineness. Rapid hardening cement, therefore, requires greater degree of
fineness.
However, two much fineness is also undesirable because the cost of grinding the cement to higher
fineness is considerably high. Finer cement deteriorates more quickly when exposed to air and likely to
cause more shrinkage, but less prone to bleeding. Greater fineness also requires greater amount of
gypsum for proper retardation of setting. Fineness of cement is controlled by minimum specific surface
area of cement particles per gram of cement. For Ordinary Portland cement the specific surface area
should not be less than 2250 cm2/g. Checking fineness of cement through sieving is an indirect method
and it is easily done in the laboratory. It also indicates if lumps have formed in cement due to poor storage
and chemical reaction with moisture from the air of the ambient environment. However, specific surface
area of cement can be Blaine’s air permeability of cement apparatus.
NECESSARY INSTRUMENTS/ EQUIPMENT USED:
1. Analytical balance – capable of reproducing results within 0.0002 gm with an accuracy of ±

0.0002gm.
2. Wire cloth test sieve of size 90 microns (90 µ) conforming to IS: 460 (Part 1)- 1985
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3. Standard weights.
4. Brush- A nylon or pure bristle brush preferably with 25 to 40mm bristle for cleaning the sieve.
5. Trowel
6. Tray of size 300 x 300 mm.
SPECIMEN SUPPLIED:
The samples of cement shall be taken according to the requirements of IS: 3535 – 1986 and the relevant
standard specification for the type of cement being tested. The representative sample of cement selected
shall be thoroughly mixed before testing.
PROCEDURE:
1. Weigh accurately 100gm of cement and place it on a standard IS sieve 90 microns.

2. Break down any air set lumps in the sample with finger but do not rub on the sieve.
3. Continuously sieve the sample by holding the sieve in both hands and giving a gentle wrist motion or
mechanical sieve shaker may be used for this purpose. The sieving should be continuous for 15
minutes.
4. Weigh the residue left after 15 minutes sieving. This residue shall not exceed the specified limits as
follows:
After sieving the residue by weight on 90 µ IS sieve not to exceed 10% for ordinary cement and 5%
for rapid hardening cement.
OBSERVATIONS:
DESCRIPTION OF ITEMS SAMPLE SAMPLE SAMPLE

I II III
1. Weight of cement W(gm) 100 100 100
2. IS Sieve size (µ) 90 90 90
3. Sieving time (minutes) 15 15 15
4. Weight retained on sieve W1 (gm)
𝑊1
5. Percent weight retained on sieve 𝑊
x 100
6. Mean percentage
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PRECAUTIONS:
1. The cleaning of the sieve should be done very gently with the help of a brush i.e., 25mm or 40mm
bristle brush with 25cm handle.
2. After sieving the cement must be removed from the bottom surface of the sieve gently.
3. Weighing machine must be checked before use.
4. Sieving must be carried out continuously.
REPORT:
1) Draw sketch of tray and sieve ( a perspective view will be better)

2) Results: Calculate the mass of cement retained on 90 micron IS sieve as percent of the original mass.
3) Conclusion/ Discussion.
Compare your values with standard values for the type of cement used and give your comments on the
suitability of using cement sample for construction purposes.
REFERENCES:
● IS: 4031 (Part I) – 1988 “Method of physical tests for hydraulic cement: Part- I Determination of
fineness by dry sieving.”
● IS: 3535 (Part-I) – “Methods of sampling of hydraulic cement (first revision)”
● Concrete Technology by A.M. Neville, ELBS Publication
● Concrete Technology by M.L. Gambhir, Tata McGraw Hill Publication
****
5 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO. 2: Determination of Normal Consistency of Cement
AIM: To Determine the Normal Consistency for a Given Sample of Cement.
a) To determine the normal consistency of cement

b) To prepare a cement paste
c) To set up the experiment
d) To follow the procedural steps with precautions
e) To fill up the observation table appropriately
f) To report as per instruction
THEORY:
Normal consistency of cement is defined as a percentage of water by weight of cement which produces a
cement paste of standard consistence permitting a standard plunger of 10mm diameter to penetrate up to a
depth of 5mm to 7mm above the bottom of Vicat’s Mould. The percentage of water in the cement paste
for standard consistency will vary from cement to cement and from batch to batch of the cement. Normal
consistency generally ranges from 26 to 33 expressed as a percentage by weight of dry cement. Many a
times higher normal consistency values are observed for old cement or if the cement is too fine (very high
specific surface area).
NECESSARY INSTRUMENTS/ EQUIPMENTS USED:
1) Vicat- apparatus with plunger of 10mm diameter and 50mm long and Vicat’s mould with mild steel
base plate.
2) Balance with weights (capacity 1 kg, sensitivity up to 0.1 gm)
3) Trowel ( small, weighing about 210 gm)
4) Marble stone slab ( non- porous plate)
5) Enamel through
6) Measuring glass (100cc – 2nos)
7) Stop Watch
8) Thermometer range 50°C
9) Standard spatula.
SPECIMEN SUPPLIED:
Portland cements 400gm (for each trial).
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PREPARATION OF CEMENT PASTE:

a) Weigh about 400gm of dry cement accurately and place it in the enamel trough
b) Add 25% of clean water and mix it uniformly by means of spatula.
c) Care should be taken that the time of mixing (gauging) is not less than 3minutes and not more than 5
minutes. The gauging time shall be counted from the instant of adding water to the dry cement until
commencing to fill the mould.
EXPERIMENTAL SET UP:
The Vicat plunger, made up of polished brass, 10mm diameter, 50mm long with a threaded projection at
the upper end for fixing into the movable rod and also having the lower edge flat, shall be fixed to the
Vicat- apparatus in proper position. The plunger when resting on the non- porous plate at the bottom of
the mould should indicate a reading of zero in its scale.
PROCEDURE:
1) Fill the Vicat- mould with the cement paste, the mould resting on marble slab or non- porous plate.
2) Make the surface of the cement paste in level with the top of the mould with a trowel weighing about
210gm. The mould should be slightly shaken to expel air bubbles.
3) Place this mould together with the non- porous plate under the rod bearing the plunger. Bring the
bottom of the plunger gradually to the surface of the cement paste.
4) Release the plunger quickly, allowing it to sink into the paste. A reading of 5 to 7mm is desired for
normal consistency of the cement paste. In case the reading is different continue with the following
steps.
5) Prepare trial pastes with varying percentages of water and the test as described above until the plunger
penetrates up to a depth of 5mm to 7mm above the bottom of the mould.
6) Indicate this amount of water as a percentage by weight of dry cement (normal consistency).
PRECAUTIONS:
1) The temperature of cement, water and that of the test room at the time of test should be between 25°
to 29°C
2) Appliances to be used for gauging should be neat and clean.
3) The gauging time must be between 3 to 5 minutes.
4) In filling the mould, the operator’s hands and the blade of the trowel along should be used.
5) Plunger and mould must be clean for each trial.
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OBSERVATION TABLE:
Sl. Type of Manufactured Weight Percentage Quantity Un- Remarks

No. Cement by of of Water of Water penetrated
Cement Added Added Depth in
Sample mm.
REPORT:
1) Specimen calculations: Calculations for percentage of water added is to be given.

2) Results: Normal consistency (% of water by weight of dry cement) = ________%
3) Drawing of sketches of apparatus
4) Conclusion/ Discussion (comments on results, comparing with standard values)
REFERENCES:
● IS: 269 – 1989 “Specification for 33 grade Ordinary Portland cement”

● IS: 4031 (Part – IV) – 1988 “Determination of consistency of standard paste”
● Concrete Technology – by M. L. Gambhir, Tata McGraw Hill Publication
***
8 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO.3: Determination of Initial and Final Setting Time of Cement
AIM: To Determination of Initial and Final Setting Time of a Given Cement
a) To explain the theory of setting of cement

b) To explain initial and final setting time
c) To prepare a cement paste
d) To set up the apparatus
e) To follow the procedural steps with precautions
f) To fill up the observation table appropriately
g) To report as per instructions
THEORY:
The term setting of cement is used to describe stiffening of cement paste. When cement is mixed with
water, the three main compounds of cement i.e., tri- calcium silicate (C3S), tri- calcium aluminates (C3A),
and di- calcium (C2S) react with water. C3S hydrates more rapidly and develop early strength, generates
heat more rapidly and has less resistance to chemical attack. C3A is fast reacting and large amount of heat
generates and causes initial setting. The phenomenon of changing from fluid state to rigid state is called
setting of cement. Hardening of cement due to its hydration, which results in strength development, is
different from setting. In concrete construction work it is specified that the plastic concrete should be
placed and consolidated before the initial setting has occurred. It should not be disturbed until it has
hardened. The initial setting time should not be too small and therefore the standards specify the
minimum initial setting time. After initial setting, the concrete becomes rigid at final setting and
thereafter through hardening attains strength rapidly; so there is minimum delay before side shuttering
can be removed. The setting time measures the time taken for cement paste to offer a certain degree of
resistance to the penetration of a special attachment pressed into it. Two periods of times are used to
assess the setting behaviour. These are called initial setting time and final setting time. The terms initial
and final set are used to describe arbitrarily chosen stages of setting.
Initial setting time is defined as the period or the time starting from the instant of mixing of water to a
state at which the cement paste loses its plasticity. It indicates the end of slow and steady rate of chemical
reaction. Practically it is defined as the period elapsing between the time when the water is added to the
cement and the time at which a needle of 1mm square section penetrates no deeper than to a point 5mm ±
0.5 mm from the bottom of the Vicat apparatus mould with the cement paste. Initial setting time
9 NIT NAGALAND
(minimum) as specified by ISI is 30 minutes for ordinary and rapid hardening Portland cement and 60
minutes for low heat cement.
Whereas the final setting time is the time taken to reach the stage when the paste becomes a rigid mass.
Practically it is defined as the period elapsing between the time when water is added to the cement and the
time at which the needle makes an impression on the surface test block while the annular attachment fails
to do so. Note the difference between the attachments for determining the initial and final setting time.
Final setting time (maximum) is 600 minutes for all types of cement according to IS specifications (269-
1989, IS 6909- 1990, IS 1489- 1991).
Final setting time chemically implies a maximum rise of temperature in the sample. The Phenomenon of
abnormal premature hardening of concrete or cement within a few minutes of mixing of water is called
false setting of cement. In this case not much heat is evolved and re-mixing without additional water
gives the required workability and the cement sets in the normal manner with no appreciable loss of
strength. There is no relationship between setting time and rate of strength development of concrete. Final
setting time is approximately equal to 90 + 1.2 times initial setting time for normal Portland cement at
room temperature.
1. Vicat’s apparatus with mould and non- porous plate as per IS: 4031 ( Part V)- 1998 shown in Fig.1
2. Needle (C) for initial setting time and needle (F) for final setting time.
3. Balance (capacity 1 Kg. Sensitivity 0.1 gm)
4. Trowel (weighing about 210gm)
5. Enameled tray
6. Standard spatula
7. Stop watch
8. Thermometer
9. Measuring cylinder
MATERIAL USED: Cement (Ordinary Portland) and water
PROCEDURE:
1. PREPARATION OF CEMENT PASTE (SAMPLE):

Weigh 400-450 gm of Ordinary Portland Cement accurately (W) having standard consistency (P). The
water which is to be added in the above weighed cement is 0.85 times the percentage of water required
for the standard consistency i.e., 0.85PW. Start the stopwatch at once, when the water is added in the
10 NIT NAGALAND
cement. Mix it uniformly with spatula over a glass plate. The mixing or gauging time of cement water is
not less than 3 minutes and not more than 5 minutes. It is counted from the instant of adding water to dry
cement up to the filling of the mould.
2. DETERMINATION OF INITIAL SETTING TIME:

i. The cement paste as prepared above is filled in Vicat’s mould, which is rested on a non porous
plate.
ii. Smooth off the upper surface of the paste, making it level with the top of the mould to give the test
block.
iii. The mould resting on non- porous plate is placed under the rod bearing the needle(C).
iv. Lower the needle gently in contact with the surface of the test block and quickly release the needle
allowing it to penetrate into test block. In the beginning the needle (C) will completely pierce the
test block.
v. Repeat this procedure until the reading becomes 5 ± 0.5mm, measured from the bottom of the
mould.
vi. Note the initial setting time.
vii. Record the time in the observation table.
3. DETERMINATION OF FINAL SETTING TIME:

i. Replace the needle (C) (used for initial setting time) of the Vicat’s apparatus with the needle with
an annular attachment (F) for the final setting time.
ii. Release the needle gently as described in initial setting time, till the needle makes an impression
1
thereon, while the annular attachment fails to do so after about 1 2 hour of initial setting at
intervals of 10 minutes.
iii. The period elapsing between the time when water is added to the cement and the time at which the
needle makes an impression on the surface of test block while the annular attachment fails to do
so shall be the final setting time.
iv. Record that time in the observation table.
v. Use the undesirable of test block if a scum is forming on the surface, for the determination of final
setting time.
11 NIT NAGALAND
OBSERVATION:
● Weight of cement (W) gm = gm

● Standard consistency of Water (P) = %
● Weight of water to be added =0.85x W x P =
Sl. No. Time in minutes Vicat’s apparatus reading

1
2
3
4
5
6
● Time for initial setting =

● Time for final setting =
PRECAUTIONS:
1) Needle should be cleaned every time before use.

2) Proper needle is fixed for initial and final setting time.
3) Release the needle gently after it comes in contact with the surface of test mould.
4) Gauging time should not be less than 3 minutes and not more than 5 minutes.
5) Check up the stopwatch for accuracy.
6) Shift the position of the mould after recording the penetration reading so that the penetration may not
be at the same place.
7) Test block should be kept in 90% relative humidity and at temperature 27°C± 2°C
8) The experiment should be performed away from vibrations and other disturbances.
REPORT:
1. Drawing the sketches: Sketches of Vicat’s apparatus, with needle C and F.

2. Results:
a) Initial setting time of cement = minutes
b) Final setting time of cement = minutes
3. Conclusion/ Discussion
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After doing this test in the laboratory, compare the observed values with the standard values for the
type of cement which is used by you and give your comments on the suitability of using the cement
sample tested by you at construction site.
REFERENCES:
● IS: 269- 1989 “Specifications for 33 Grade Ordinary Portland Cement”

● IS: 4031 (Part- V)- 1988 “Determination of initial and final setting times”
● Concrete Technology by M.L. Gambhir, Tata McGraw Hill Publication
● Properties of Concrete by A.M. Neville, ELBS Publication.
***
13 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO: 4 Determination of Specific Gravity of Cement
AIM: To determine the specific gravity of cement
PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVE:
a) To understand specific gravity of cement.

b) To set up the apparatus
c) To follow the procedural steps with precautions
d) To fill up the observation table correctly
e) To prepare a report as per instructions
THEORY:
Specific gravity is normally defined as the ratio between the weight of a given volume of material and
weight of an equal volume of water. To determine the specific gravity of cement, we use kerosene in
place of water as kerosene does not react with cement which makes it easier for performing the
experiment. Density bottle of 100 ml made to hold a known volume of liquid at a specified temperature
(usually 20°C) is used in this experiment. The bottle is weighed, filled with the liquid whose specific
gravity is to be found, and weighed again. The difference in weights is divided by the weight of an equal
volume of water to give the specific gravity of the liquid. Specific gravity of cement can be calculated as:
𝑊2−𝑊1
𝐺= (𝑊2−𝑊1)−(𝑊3−𝑊4)
𝑥 0. 81
NECESSARY INSTRUMENTS & APPARATUS:

1. Cement (OPC or PPC)
2. Density bottle 100 ml
3. Kerosene
4. Weigh balance
5. Trowel
6. Water
7. Stir
PROCEDURE:
1. Prepare the test specimen. Clean the density bottle.

2. Weigh the empty density bottle along with the stopper and note as (W1)
3. Weigh about 50 gm of cement accurately in the balance.
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4. Fill the density bottle with the cement carefully without any loss. Weigh the density bottle along with
stopper and note as (W2)
5. Add kerosene (polar liquid) to the cement in the bottle till it is half full. Stir it to remove the entrapped
air bubbles. Fill it to the throat of the bottle and close the mouth. Carefully dry it from outside. Weigh
the bottle and note as (W3)
6. Empty the bottle and clean the bottle with water. Now fill the bottle with clean kerosene and close the
mouth. Carefully dry it from outside. Weigh the bottle and note as (W4)
7. Repeat the procedure for at least three readings.
OBSERVATION:
SL OBSERVATIONS SAMPLE-1 SAMPLE-2 SAMPLE-3

NO
1 Weight of the empty bottle (W1)
2 Weight of the empty bottle + cement (W2)
3 Weight of the empty bottle + cement +

Kerosene (W3)
4 Weight of the empty bottle + kerosene (W4)
5 Specific Gravity; G =
𝑊2−𝑊1
(𝑊2−𝑊1)−(𝑊3−𝑊4)
𝑥 0. 81
**Note: Sp. Gravity of kerosene = 0.81
6 Mean Specific Gravity
PRECAUTIONS:
1. Carefully break the lumps in the cement
2. Carefully stir and shake the bottle to avoid loss
3. Cement should not be lost while pouring into the bottle.
CONCLUSION:
REPORT:
1. Sample Calculation
15 NIT NAGALAND
2. Drawing and sketches
***
EXPERIMENT NO. 5 DETERMINATION OF COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF
CEMENT:
AIM: To Determine the Compressive Strength of Cement.
a) To define compressive strength of cement

b) To prepare the cement mortar
c) To prepare the mortar cubes
d) To test the cubes with precautions
f) To report as per instruction
THEORY:
The compressive strength of cement is measured by determining the compressive of cement mortar cubes
of 1:3 proportion with a water-to-cement ratio of (P+12)/100 where P is the normal consistency of
cement. The fine aggregate (Ennore sand) to be used is standard sand, washed clean, dried at 100ºC -
110ºC & cooled, passing through IS- 850μ sieve and not more than 10% passing through IS-600μ sieve as
specified by IS:650-1991(2nd Revision). The compression test enables also to distinguish rapid hardening
cement from low heat and ordinary cement. This test is to final checked on the quality of cement and can
be calculated by measurement of applied load on the contact area of a cube. Different cement has
different minimum specified strengths at specified ages. Normal Portland Cement should have minimum
compressive strength of 16 MPa, 22Mpa & 33MPa at 3.7 & 28 days respectively. 28 days compressive
strength of cement is referred to as its grade (without the unit of MPa) e.g. cement of grade 33, 43 or 53.
NECESSARY INSTRUMENTS/EQUIPMENTS USED:
1) Vibration machine
2) Cube mould, 7.06 cm size each
3) Trowel
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4) Enamel trough
5) Measuring cylinder
6) Balance
7) Thermometer
8) Non-porous plate
9) Compression testing machine.
PREPARATION OF MORTAR FOR CUBES:
i) Oil the interior faces of nine cubes mould.

ii) Place one of the assembled moulds on the table of vibration machine and firmly hold it in position
by means of suitable clamps.
iii) Securely attach a hopper of suitable size and shape at the top of the mould to facilitate filling and
this hopper shall not be removed until completion of the vibration period.
iv) For the preparation of cubes, cleaned appliances shall be used and the temperature of water and
that of room shall be 27ºC+ 2ºC.
v) Cement: 200gm, standard sand 600gm. Water (P/4+3)% of combined weight of cement and sand,
where P= normal consistency of cement in %.
vi) Place on non-porous plate a mixture of cement and standard sand in the proportion 1:3 by weight.
vii) Mix it dry with a trowel for one minute ant then with the water until the mix is of uniform colour.
viii) Gauging time should not be less than 3 minutes and should not exceed 4 minutes. If it exceeds, the
mixture is rejected and operation is repeated.
ix) Immediately after mixing the mortar as specified above, place the mortar on the hopper of the
cube mould and compact the same by vibration for a period of about 2 minutes at a speed of
1200+ 400vibrations/min.
x) Keep the cubes at a temperature of 27ºC+ 2ºC in an atmosphere of at least 90% relative humidity
for 24 hours after completion of vibration.
xi) The other cubes are cast following the same procedure.
xii) At the end of this period, removed them from the mould and immediately submerge in clean fresh
water at 27ºC+ 2ºC. Keep the cubes there until taken out just prior to testing in compression. The
period shall be recorded just after the completion of compaction in the vibratory machine.
Although 28 days strength only can identify the grade of cement, the following period may be
observed for different type of cement as a minimum.
a) Ordinary Portland cement: 3 & 7 days
b) Rapid Hardening Portland cement: 1&3 days
c) Low Heat Portland cement: 3,7&28 days
17 NIT NAGALAND
TESTING:
i. Place a test cube by keeping any of its transverse surfaces on the horizontal platform of the
compression-testing machine coaxially without any packing between the cube and the steel plates of
the testing machine.
ii. Apply the load steadily and uniform starting from zero at the rate of 35Mpa/minutes till the cubes
fails.
iii. Record the reading at failure.
iv. Test three cubes at a particular age (period) and record the readings accordingly.
PRECAUTIONS:
1) All appliances should be neat and clean.

2) The mixture that takes more than 4 minutes of mixing before starting of cube casting should be
rejected.
3) In assembling the mould, cover the joints between halves of the mould with a thin film petroleum
jelly in order to ensure that no water escapes during vibration.
4) Water in which cubes are submerged should be renewed after every 7 days. The cubes should not
be allowed to dry up before testing; however the free water from the surface should be removed
with jute or a piece of dry cloth.
5) Load on the specimen should be applied gradually.
6) The specimen should be immediately tested after it removed from curing tank.
OBSERVATION TABLE:
Cube sample details:
i. Date of casting…………………..Room temp……………ºC

ii. Time at casting…...........hrs……….min. Water temp……………….ºC
Specimens
Compressive strength Test for cement
I II III IV V VI
Weight of Cement (gm)
Weight of standard sand (gm)
Weight of water (P/4+3)% of weight of dry aggregate &
cement (gm)
Size of specimen (L) mm
(B) mm
(H) mm
Area of specimen (A) mm2
18 NIT NAGALAND
Load at fracture (W) in N at age of :
3 days
7 days
28 days
Compressive strength (W/A) in N/mm2 at age of
3 days
7 days
28 days
Average strength in N/mm2 at age of:
3 days 7 days 28 days
REPORT:
RESULTS:
i. Average strength = …………………………N/mm2 at age of……………….days

ii. Conformity with IS specification ……………….. (Yes/no).
CONCLUSION:
DISCUSSION:
REFFERENCES
● IS: 4031 (PART VI)-1988 “Method of Physical Test for hydraulic cement: Part VI Determination
of compressive strength of hydraulic cement.”
● IS: 650-1991 “Specification for standard sand for testing of cement.”
● Concrete Technology- by A.M. Neville J.J Brooks.
● Concrete Technology- by M.L Gambhir, Tata McGraw Hill Publication.
● Properties of concrete- by A.M Neville, ELBS publication.
***
19 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO: 6 Verification of Soundness of Cement by Le-Chatelier Apparatus
method:
AIM: To verify the soundness of cement by “Le-Chatelier “Method.
PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES.
a) Define soundness and unsoundness of cement.

b) State the materials which increase the volume of the hardened concrete.
c) List different methods of testing the soundness of cement.
f) To fill up the observation table correctly.
g) To prepare the report as per instruction.
THEORY:
It is essential that cement paste, once it has set, does not undergo an appreciable change in volume.
Cements, which exhibits no such appreciable change, are described as sound. The unsoundness of cement
is caused by undesirable expansion of some of its constituents after setting. These expansions results in
disintegration and severe cracking. Such expansions may occur due to the reaction of free lime (Cao) and
magnesia and calcium sulphate. Free lime hydrates very slowly because a thin film of cement, which
prevents direct contact between lime and water when the cement sets, covers it. Also, hard-burnt excess
free lime in cement hydrates very slowly. Slacked lime occupies the larger volume, as a result of this
expansion severe cracking will takes place. Magnesia also reacts with water in a similar manner to that of
lime. Calcium sulphate is also liable to cause expansion through the formation of calcium
sulphoaluminate from excess gypsum. Cement is said to be sound if it does not undergo significant
volumetric change during hardening process. Cement is said to be unsound when the percentage of free
lime and magnesia is more than that specified. The unsoundness may be reduced by limiting the magnesia
content to less than 0.5%, by fine grinding, by allowing the cement to aerate for several days and through
proper mixing. The methods with which the soundness of cement can be determined are (1) Le-chatelier
test (2) Autoclave test.
The expansion in cement should not be more than 10mm in Le-chatelier‘s test according to IS: 269-1976.
It may be noted that expansion due to the presence of free lime only is mostly reflected in Le-chatelier‘s
test.
20 NIT NAGALAND
NECESSARY INSTRUMENTS /EQUIPMENT USED:

Le-chatelier‘s apparatus as shown in fig. below is as per IS-4031(part III)-1988. It is made of a small
split cylinder of brass having 0.5mm thickness and height of 30mm. on either side of the split is attached
two indicators with pointed ends. The length of this attachment from the centre of the split cylinder is
165mm. The mould shall be kept in good condition with the jaws not more than 0.5mm apart.
1. Glass plates in 2 numbers
2. Lead weights
3. Trovel
4. Measuring cylinder for measure of water
5. Enamel tray
6. Thermometer
7. Stop watch
8. Balance with weights
9. Blowlamp or water bath with electric heating arrangement
Fig. Le-chatelier‘s apparatus
MATERIAL USED:
Cement, water and petroleum jelly.
PROCEDURE:
1) PREPARATION OF CEMENT SAMPLE:
21 NIT NAGALAND
Before making the sample for this test, first determine the normal consistency, P of cement with vicat‘s
apparatus. Weigh the cement (50gm) for each mould. Measure the amount of water equal to 0.78PW,
where P is the consistency of cement on which the soundness test is performed and W is the weight of
cement taken for each mould. Mix it properly to form a paste.
2) FILLING AND TESTING WITH LE-CHATELIER ‘S APPARATUS:

a) Place the brass split cylinder mould on one glass and fill up the above cement pastes in it.
b) Care should be taken to keep the edge of the mould gently together, while filling the cement paste in
the mould.
c) Cover the above split cylinder (with sample) with another piece of glass plate.
d) Place the lead weight over the glass plate.
e) Submerge the above assembly in fresh and clean water maintained at a temperature 27ºC + 2ºC
and keep it there for 24 hours.
f) Accurately measure the distance separating the indicating points in mm after the curing.
g) Submerge the mould again in water at the same above prescribed temperature in a water container.
h) Allow the water to boil with the mould kept submerge by raising temperature in 25-30 minutes and
boil it for 3 hours.
i) Remove the mould from water.
j) Allow it to cool in a natural manner and measure the distance between the indicating points.
k) The difference between measurements represents the Le-chatelier expansion of cement on hydration.
l) Record the entire observation table correctly.
OBSERVATION:
PARTICULARS SPECIMEN NO.

a) Weight of cement sample (W)gm 1 2 3
b) Water required for normal consistency (P)
c) Water added to the sample 0.78PW
d) Time at which the sample is put in water at 27ºC + 2ºC
e) Time at which the water is brought to the boiling point
f) Distance between the pointer ends before heating (D1)mm
g) Time of heating
h) Distance between the pointer ends after heating (D2)mm
i) Difference (D2 –D1) in mm
22 NIT NAGALAND
PRECAUTIONS:
1) Weighing of cement and measurement of water is done accurately.

2) While filling the cement paste in the split cylinder mould, keep the edges of the mould together
gently.
3) Submerge the sample in water having temperature 27ºC + 2ºC for 24 hours.
4) From the time of addition of water for mixing it with cement till the time to fill up the mould
should not less than 3 minutesand not more than 5 minutes.
5) Handle the mould carefully while conducting the test. Mishandling will change the dimension,
specially the gap between the two jaws that is split edges.
REPORT:
RESULT:
Expansion/contraction of cement = …………mm
CONCLUSION:
DISCUSSION:
The expansion of cement should not be more than 10 mm for ordinary Portland Cement, rapid hardening
cement, low heat Portland cement and blast furnace slag cement. Compare the observed values with
standard values and give comment; either cement is sound or unsound.
REFFERENCES:
● IS: 4031 (part III)-1988 “Method of physical tests for hydraulic cement: Part III Determination of
soundness of cement.”
****
23 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO: 7 Verification of Soundness of Cement by Autoclave Test method
AIM: To verify the soundness of cement by Autoclave test Method.
a) Define soundness and unsoundness of cement.

b) State the materials which increase the volume of the hardened concrete.
c) List different methods of testing the soundness of cement.
f) To fill up the observation table correctly.
g) To prepare the report as per instruction.
Theory:
It is essential that cement paste, once it has set, does not undergo an appreciable change in volume.
Cements, which exhibits no such appreciable change, are described as sound. The unsoundness of cement
is caused by undesirable expansion of some of its constituents after setting. These expansions results in
disintegration and severe cracking. Such expansions may occur due to the reaction of free lime (Cao) and
magnesia and calcium sulphate. Free lime hydrates very slowly because a thin film of cement, which
prevents direct contact between lime and water when the cement sets, covers it. Also, hard-burnt excess
free lime in cement hydrates very slowly. Slacked lime occupies the larger volume, as a result of this
expansion severe cracking will takes place. Magnesia also reacts with water in a similar manner to that of
lime. Calcium sulphate is also liable to cause expansion through the formation of calcium
sulphoaluminate from excess gypsum. Cement is said to be sound if it does not undergo significant
volumetric change during hardening process. Cement is said to be unsound when the percentage of free
lime and magnesia is more than that specified. The unsoundness may be reduced by limiting the magnesia
content to less than 0.5%, by fine grinding, by allowing the cement to aerate for several days and through
proper mixing. The methods with which the soundness of cement can be determined are
(1) Le-chatelier test
(2) Autoclave test.
Autoclave test is more accurate than Le-Chatelier‘s test it may be noted that expansion due to presence of
free lime and magnesia is mostly reflected in autoclave test. This test is intended for determining the
soundness of cement or the expansion in length nearest to 0.01% of the effective length which is the
length between the innermost part of the metals inserts used as reference points. Autoclave expansion
should not exceed 0.5% in OPC, rapid hardening, low heat and super sulphated cement. In case PPC it is
24 NIT NAGALAND
0.3%. Prefixing a minus sign to the percentage expansion shall indicate a contraction (negative
expansion).
NECESSARY INSTRUMENT/EQUIPMENT USED:
1. Autoclave apparatus: The autoclave consists of a high-pressure steam boiler equipped with
automatic pressure control and a safety valve. The capacity of the heating unit shall be such that
with maximum load (water + specimen) the pressure of the saturated steam in the autoclave can be
1
raised to a gauge pressure of 2.1 MPa in 1 to 1 4 hour from the time the heater is turned on. The
automatic pressure control shall be capable of maintaining the pressure at 2.1 + 0.1 MPa
corresponding to a temperature of 215.7ºC + 1.7 ºC. The autoclave is designed to permit the
pressure to drop from 2.1 MPa to less than 0.07 MPa in one hour after the heat supply has been shut
off. It is equipped with a vent valve for allowing the escape of air during the early part of the
heating period and for releasing any steam pressure remaining at the end of the one hour cooling
period. It is as per IS: 4031(Part III)-1988.
2. Length comparator: Changes in length of the test specimens shall be measured by a dial gauge or
micrometer comparator having a range of at least 7.6 mm. The instrument shall be graduated to at
least 0.05 mm and when tested at any point through it range, the error shall be not greater than plus
or minus 0.025 mm. The difference between repeated measurements shall not be greater than 0.025
mm. The comparator shall be equipped with a steel reference bar and shall be frequently checked
with this reference bar.
3. Mould: The mould is 25x25 mm in size and 282 mm in internal length. The parts of the mould shall
be tight fitting and firmly held together when assembled. It is made up of steel or hard metal. The
sides of the mould shall have provision to hold properly in place, during the setting period, a pair of
stainless steel or non- corroding metal reference points having a diameter of 6.5 mm. The reference
points shall be set to an effective gauge length of 250 mm, care being taken to keep them clean and
free from oil.
4. Graduated Glass Cylinders: It is of 150 ml capacity. The mains graduations lines of the cylinders
shall be in circles and shall be numbered. The least graduation shall be extending at least one fifty
of the way.
5. Balance with weights.
6. Trowel.
PROCEDURE:
Preparation of Test specimen:
25 NIT NAGALAND
1. At first a coating of mineral oil is given on the inside surface of the mould and then stainless steel
metal reference inserts are set inside the holes so as to obtain the effective gauge length of the test
specimen equal to 250 mm.
𝑁
2. Weight about 600 gm of cement. Calculate the amount of water in ml given by 100
x W, where N =
Normal consistency of cement.

3. Mix the water with cement thoroughly to give a paste of uniform colour.
4. After proper mixing the mould for test specimens shall be filled in two layers, each layer being
compacted with thumb or or forefinger by pressing the paste into the corners around the references
inserts and along the surface of the mould until a homogeneous specimens is obtained.
5. After compaction, the top layers shall be cut-off, flush with the top of the mould and then smoothen
the surface with the trowel.
6. The mould is kept in a moist room for 24 hours.
7. Removed the test specimens from the mould after 24 hours and measure its length between the
reference inserts.
8. Fill up to 7% -10% (approximately 15 cm- 20 cm depth) of the space of the autoclave with water so
as to maintain an atmosphere of saturated steam vapour inside during testing.
9. The test specimen is placed in the bar mould stand so that each side of the specimen shall be
exposed in autoclave.
10. Switch on the autoclave, during the start the vent valve shall be opened permitting air to escape
from autoclave until steam beings to escape at about 104ºC.
11. Close the vent valve and the temperature of the autoclave shall be raised at such a rate as will bring
1
gauge pressure of the steam +2.1 MPa in 1 to 1 4 hours from the time when the autoclave is
started.
12. The pressure 2.1+ 0.1 MPa shall be maintained for 3 hours. If the thermostat control puts off the
heater at a pressure of 2.1 MPa (at a temperature of 215.7ºC) the heater switch should be put on
again when the temperature drops below 214ºC after sometime.
13. Switch off the autoclave heater and the inbuilt fan cools it at a rate such that the pressure will be
less than 0.1 MPa at the end of one hour.
14. The vent valve is opened partly so that the remaining pressure, if any be released slowly.
15. Open the autoclave lid and take out the specimen.
16. Place the specimen immediately in water.
17. Cool the specimen at uniform rate adding cold water so that the temperature comes down 27ºC+2ºC
in fifteen minutes.
18. Place the specimen at 27ºC+2ºC in water for another fifteen minutes.
26 NIT NAGALAND
19. After the specimen is surface dried, its length is measured again.
20. The difference in length of the test specimen before and after autoclave shall be calculated. It gives
the autoclave expansion or contraction of the cement.
OBSERVATION:
The length of the specimen before placing in the autoclave, X=...............mm
The length of the specimen after taking out from the autoclave, Y=...............mm
Increase in length due to heating in the autoclave, Z= Y-X =...............mm
𝑍
Autoclave expansion of cement, = 𝑋
x100 = ...........%.
REPORT:
Result:
Expansion/contraction of cement = …………mm
Conclusion/Discussion:
PRECAUTIONS:
1. While preparing the test specimen, the effective gauge length between two metal references
should be 250 mm.
2. Cement paste must be filled in the mould in two layers and each layers being compacted with the
thumb or fore finger by pressing the paste in the corners around the the metal reference inserts.
3. The pressure gauge should have a capacity range of 4.2 MPa. While operating, it should be
carefully observed that the pressure gauge hand never approaches this maximum marked range.
4. Pressure gauge is checked periodically during early portion of heating period. Further, the
thermometer must always be used to provide a means of detecting any failure of pressure gauge or
thermostat control.
5. The automatic control shall be maintained in proper working order at all time.
6. Safety valve shall be tested twice a year.
7. After switching off the heater the assembly is cooled through generally an inbuilt fan.
8. Heavy leather gloves shall be worn to prevent burning of the hands when removing the top lid of
the autoclave. Care should be taken to avoid scaling by using any suitable liquid.
9. The position of the vent valve shall be away from the operator ‘s side.
10. A few drops of kerosene oil is placed in the vent valve about once a week and it is cleared with
needle so that it is in good working conditions.
27 NIT NAGALAND
REFFERENCES:
● IS: 4031 (part III)-1988 Method of physical tests for hydraulic cement: Part III Determination of
soundness of cement.
***
28 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO: 8 Determination of Tensile Strength of cement
AIM: To determine the tensile strength of cement
a. To define the tensile strength of cement.

b. To prepare the cement mortar
c. To prepare the standard briquettes.
d. To follow the procedural steps with precautions
e. To fill up the observation table correctly
f. To prepare a report as per instructions
THEORY:
Cement is usually subjected to compressive stresses when used in the form of concrete or mortar. The
most comprehensive test for cement or for a mixture of it with sand is done by determining its crushing
strength. Unfortunately, it requires a very costly machine and, therefore, the usual practice is to use
the tensile test instead which can be carried out very cheaply. The tensile strength is determined in order
to gain some idea of the cohesion between the particles. This property by itself is not of importance in
cement concrete, but as it is roughly proportional to the crushing strength and is easier to determine, the
tensile test is usually substituted for the crushing test.
Tensile Strength of Cement test is used as an indirect indication of compressive strength of cement. It is at
present generally used for the rapid hardening cement.
✔ ASTM Standard for Conditions for Tensile Test:
While conducting the test the following conditions should be fulfilled:
❖ ROOM TEMPERATURE = 180 C to 200 C

❖ RELATIVE HUMIDITY = 90 %
✔ ASTM Standard for Tensile strengths:

Following are the standard tensile strengths for different cement;
1) Ordinary Cement:
⮚ Not less than 300 lb. per sq.in. After 3 days
⮚ Greater than 375 lb. per sq.in. After 7 days
2) Rapid Hardening Cement:

29 NIT NAGALAND

1) Cement (OPC or PPC)
2) Fine Aggregate(Sand)
3) Water
4) Weigh balance
5) Trowel
6) Lubricants
7) Spatula
8) Standard Tamping rod 5/8’’
9) Standard Briquettes: Briquettes are required for testing tensile strength of cement. The moulds
of briquettes are according to the ASTM (American Standard Test Methods) standards. A mould
consists of three briquettes. They are shown in the figure.
PROCEDURE:
1. Prepare a cement mortar paste (cement and sand). Take the proportion as 1:3 which means “x” gm of
cement will mix with “3x” gm of sand.
2. The water is added to the mortar. The quantity of water is 5 per cent by weight of cement and sand.
30 NIT NAGALAND
3. Clean the Standard Briquette mould and apply lubricant. Place the mortar paste in three layers in the
briquette mould.
4. After every layer the briquette should be tempered 25 times with a standard tamping rod.
5. The mould is completely filled with mortar and then a small heap of mortar is formed at its top. It is
beaten down by a standard spatula till water appears on the surface. Same procedure is repeated for
the other face of briquette. Prepare at least six numbers of briquettes.
6. Now set it aside for 24 hours, so that its initial and final setting time is reached.
7. After 24 hours remove the moulds carefully. It should be done by opening the nuts at the ends of
mould so that the briquettes are not subjected to any type of load before curing.
8. Now place the above six briquettes in water for seven days so that proper curing is done.
9. After 3 days & 7 days, check there tensile strength with the help of Briquettes tensile testing
machine, in standard condition of the surrounding.
OBSERVATION:
⮚ Date of Casting:
⮚ Room Temperature:
⮚ Time of casting in hr/min.:
⮚ Water temperature:
⮚ Date of testing (3 days):
⮚ Date of testing (7 Days):
SL AGE OF WEIGHT LOAD AREA OF TENSILE MEAN

NO THE OF THE APPLIED THE STRENGTH TENSILE
BRIQUETTE SAMPLE BRIQUETTE STRENGTH
31 NIT NAGALAND
Units Kg N mm2 N/mm2 N/mm 2
1
3 Days
2
4
7 Days
5
PRECAUTIONS:
1. All appliance should be neat & clean
2. The mixture that takes more than 4 minutes of mixing before starting of casting should be rejected
3. Apply lubricants around the briquettes.
4. The curing should be proper.
5. The specimen should be immediately tested after it is removed from the curing tank.
CONCLUSION:
REPORT:
3. Results:
4. Discussions
***
32 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO. 9: Determination of Gradation of Sand by Sieve Analysis
AIM: To Determine the Gradation of Sand by Sieve Analysis
a) To explain the theory of particle size distribution (Grading)

b) T collect the true representative sample from stock pile
c) To set up the experiment
f) To plot the particle size distribution curve (Grading curve)
g) To report as per instruction
THEORY:
Sieve analysis is a mechanical process of separating aggregate (here sand) into its different size fractions
by sieving or screening through a series of test sieves in order to determine the grading of particle size
distribution i.e., proportion of particles of different sizes. Sand as a fine aggregate for concrete and mortar
should be well graded on the principle that the smaller particle shall fill the voids between larger particles
leaving minimum voids that are supposed to be filled up by the cement particles in the resulting mass. For
normal structural purposes the grading shall be within the limits specified in IS: 383- 1970. The sieves
that are to be used for the sieve analysis of fine aggregate (sand) as per IS: 2306 (Part –I) – 1963 are
4.75mm, 2.36mm, 1.18mm. 600µm, 300 µm, 150 µm, & 75 µm. The sieves are arranged in such an order
that the square openings are nearly half for each succeeding smaller size.
The curve showing the cumulative percentage of the material passing the sieves represented on the
ordinate and with the sieve openings plotted to a logarithmic scale represented on the abscissa is termed
as the grading curve. The grading curve indicates whether the grading of a given sample confirms to that
specified or is too coarse or too fine, or deficient in a particular size.
Fineness Modulus (F.M.) of fine aggregate (sand) is an approximately numerical index of fineness, giving
some idea of the mean size of the particles present in the entire body of the aggregate. Larger the value,
the larger is the average size approximately. It is defined as the sum of the cumulative percentages
retained on the sieves (from 4.75mm to 150µ) divided by 100. The fineness modulus can be looked upon
as a weighted average size of a sieve on which the material is retained, the sieve being counted from the
finest, that is 150µ sieve. However, it should be kept in mind that one parameter, the average cannot be
representative of a distribution; thus the same fineness modulus can represent an infinite number of
33 NIT NAGALAND
totally different size distributions or grading curves. It is not much used in India now-a-days. But it is
valuable for measuring slight variations in the segregations from the same source.
Standard grading zones or limits of percentages passing different sieves are available for proper grading
of sand in grading zones I, II, III, and IV as shown in Table below reproduced from IS:383-1970. Coarse
sand is suitable for making concrete where as finer sand can be used for smooth plastering of masonry or
concrete surfaces. But mortar with coarser sand is stronger than mortar with finer sand for same
proportion of cement to sand ratio and workability.
Table showing percentages of sand passing sieves for different Grading Zones:
IS Sieve Grading Zone Grading Zone Grading Zone Grading Zone

designation I II III IV
10mm 100 100 100 100
4.75mm 90- 100 90- 100 90-100 95-100
2.36mm 60- 95 75- 100 85-100 95-100
1.18mm 30- 70 55-90 75-100 90-100
600µ 15- 34 35-59 60-79 80-100
300µ 5- 20 8-30 12-40 15-50
150µ 0-10 0-10 0-10 0-15
NECESSARY INSTRUMENTS/ EQUIPMENT USED
1) A set of IS- Sieves of 4.75mm, 2.36mm, 1.18mm, 600µ, 300µ, 150µ, 75µ, with a lid at top and
receiving pan at the bottom.
2) A weighing balance or scale of 5kg capacity accurate to 0.1 percent the weight of the test sample.
3) A sieve shaking machine.
4) Soft brush, tray, duster, stopwatch etc.
MATERIALS & PREPARATION:
(a) Cool the oven dry (100°C – 110°C) sample to room temperature. Take about 1kg from it, by
quartering and break the lumps if any.
(b) Check the accuracy of the balance.
(c) Check the sieve sizes and order.
(d) Clean the sieves and the receiving pan.
34 NIT NAGALAND
PROCEDURE:
1) Weigh out 500gm. Of the sample prepared for testing = W gm

2) Weigh each sieve = W1 gm. Weigh also the receiving pan and keep a record.
3) Set the sieves in- order with the largest sieve (4.75mm) at the top, put the receiving pan at the bottom
of 75µ sieve.
4) Place the weighed sample into the top sieve put the lid over it.
5) Put the whole assembly on the sieve- shaking machine and shake for 10 minutes.
6) Weigh each sieve along with the sand retained on it = W2 (gm)
7) Find out:
a. The weight of the sample retained on each sieve = W2 – W1 = W3 (gm)
𝑊2−𝑊1
b. The percentage of total sample by weight retained on each sieve ={ 𝑊
x 100}
c. Find out the cumulative percentage by weight of total sample retained on each.
8) Add up the cumulative percentages for sieve sizes 4.75mm, 2.36mm, 1.18mm, 600µm, 300µm, and
150µm only and divide it by 100 to obtain fineness Modulus (F.M)
9) Check the weight of sample retained on sieves and receiving pan with that of test sample taken (W)
OBSERVATION:
Weight of sand taken, W = 500gm.
Observation Table for a sample of sand:
Sieve IS Weight Weight of Wt. Of Percentage Cumulative Cumulative Remark

order sieve of sieve Sieve & Sand of weight percentage percentage
No. size (gm) Sand Retained retained retained passing
retained (gm)
(gm)
1 4.75 1. Oven dry
mm sand cooled
to room
2 2.36 temp. was
mm tested
3 1.18
2. Shaking of
mm sieves was
600µ done by
4
shaking
5 300µ machines
6 150µ
35 NIT NAGALAND
Total = ________ (gm)
PRECAUTIONS:
1) Aggregate sample should be air- dried to prevent clogging in sieves.

2) Finer sieves should be cleaned gently with soft brushes.
3) Care should be taken to see that the sieves are not surcharged. The weight of sand sample should
not exceed 500gm
4) Sieving should be done by giving varied motion so that each particle gets sufficient chance of
passing through the sieve opening (if done manually).
REPORT:
1) Drawing the Sketches:

Sketch the outline of the sieve- shaker with set of sieves used.
2) Sample Calculation:
Sample calculation must be shown for (i) Cumulative percentage retained (ii) Fineness
Modules (iii) Percentage finer than
3) Plotting of graphs:
Cumulative percentage (Y-axis) versus sieve- size (X-axis) Grading Curve can be drawn for the given
sample of sand.
4) Results:
Size of sand at:
i. 10% finer than (D10) = mm
ii. 60% finer than (D60) = mm
iii. D60/ D10 = Uniformity Co-efficient, Cu=
∑𝑐𝑢𝑚𝑢𝑙𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒 % 𝑟𝑒𝑡𝑎𝑖𝑛𝑒𝑑 𝑜𝑛 𝑒𝑎𝑐ℎ 𝑠𝑖𝑒𝑣𝑒
iv. Fineness Modulus (F.M) 100
=
v. The given sand falls in the Grading Zone __________

5) Conclusion/ Discussion:
Comment on test results obtained by you in laboratory (well graded/ Gap graded/ uniformity graded).
Give your comments on the suitability of using the sand sample tested by you for the type of work at a
construction site.
36 NIT NAGALAND
REFERENCES:
● IS: 2386 (Part-I)- 1963, Methods of test for aggregates for concrete: Part- I Particle size and
shape.
● IS: 383- 1970, Specification for coarse and fine aggregates from natural sources for concrete.
● Concrete Technology by M.L.Gambhir, Tata McGraw Hill Publication
● Properties of Concrete- by A.M.Neville, ELBS Publication
****
37 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO.10: Determination of Gradation of Coarse Aggregate by Sieve
Analysis
AIM: Determination of Particle Size Distribution of Coarse Aggregate by Sieve Analysis.
a) To explain the sieve analysis of coarse aggregate.

b) To select sieves as per given size in IS Code.
c) To set up the apparatus.
d) To follow the procedural steps with precautions.
e) To fill up the observation table appropriately.
f) To report the testing as per instructions.
THEORY:
Coarse aggregate is the one retained on 4.75mm IS Sieve. When the aggregate contains different sizes
of particles in suitable proportions, it is called graded aggregate. It provides minimum voids as
smaller particles fill in the voids created by large particles. The workability of the concrete is also
improved with well- graded aggregate. Single size aggregate makes the concrete harsh and does not
work well with trowel and does not give good surface finish. For this, sieve analysis is necessary
which enable ones to determine the proportions smaller than different sizes of particles. It is given in
term of percentage of total aggregate passing through each size of the sieve. Then the results are
plotted on a graph, on which ordinate shows percentage of aggregate passing and abscissa shows the
sieve size on logarithmic scale. The resulting curve is known as grading curve for the aggregate.
Grading curves can be finer or coarser as located respectively on the upper part and lower part of the
grading zone. These are the limits placed on the grading, upper limit for finer grading and lower limit
for coarser grading. Finer the grading, greater is the water requirement, resulting in the poor quality of
concrete. Coarser the grading, greater is the tendency of larger particles to segregate from the concrete
mass.
The grading curve indicates whether the grading of a given sample of aggregate is too coarse, too fine,
or deficient in a particular size.
a) If the actual grading curve is lower than the specified grading curve, the aggregate is Coarser and
segregation of mix might takes place.
38 NIT NAGALAND
b) If the actual grading curve lies well above the specified grading curve, the aggregate is Finer and
more water will be required, thus increasing the quantity of cement for a constant water cement
ratio. Therefore, this is uneconomical.
c) If the actual grading curve is steeper than the specified grading curve, it indicates the excess of
middle size particles and may lead to harsh.
d) If the actual grading curve is flatter than the specified grading curve, then the aggregate will be
DEFICIENT in middle size particles. It tends to become one with more of larger uniform sized
aggregate, i.e., single sized aggregate. Maximum size of aggregate increases the workability of
concrete. In mass concreting work, Large size aggregate is preferred, as with this, the
consumption of cement is less. Due to smaller total surface area of lager size aggregate, the water
cement ratio can be decreased, which increases the strength. 10 to 20mm size of aggregate is
generally used for high strength concrete
According to IS 456-1978 the maximum nominal size of coarse aggregate should not be greater
than one fourth of the minimum thickness of the member and should also be restricted to 5mm
less than the minimum clear distance between the main bar or 5mm less than the minimum cover
to reinforcement. In case of pre-stressed concrete members the maximum size of aggregate should
also be 5mm less than the spacing between the cables, strands or sheathing.
1) Sieve sizes: 80mm, 63mm,40mm, 20mm, 16mm, 12.5mm, 10mm, 4.75mm, 2.36mm, top sieve cover
and bottom pan.
2) Sieve shaker
3) Balance
4) Sample drying tray
5) Oven having temperature range 100°C – 115°C
6) Camel hairbrush
The minimum weight for different nominal sizes of aggregate may be taken as suggested below:
Maximum size present in Minimum suggested Wt. Of Minimum Wt. Of sample to

substantial proportions sample to be taken for be taken for sieving a per
(mm) sieving (Kg) IS:2386 (Part I) – 1963 (Kg)
40 15 15
20 4 2
39 NIT NAGALAND
16 3 2
12.5 2 1
10 1 0.5
PROCEDURE:
1) The sample should be oven dried 9at temp. 100C to 110C) before weighing and sieving.
2) Weigh the dried sample of coarse aggregate.
3) The weight sample is placed on the uppermost sieve starting from the largest at the top and lowest at
the bottom and then the collecting pan is placed below it.
4) Place all the sieves with sample in the sieve shaker and shake the sieves with varied motion,
backward, forward, vertically upward and downward motion for about 5-10 minutes. At the end of
sieving clean all the sieves from the bottom by light brushing.
5) If the sieve shaker is not available, in that case sieving can be done by hands (manually).
6) After sieving weight the material retained on each sieve.
OBSERVATION TABLE:
Sieve analysis result for coarse aggregate:
IS Sieve Wt. Of Percentage Cumulative Cumulative Remarks

Designation Aggregate of weight percentage percentage
retained
Retained retained retained
80mm
63mm
40mm
20mm
16mm
12.5mm
10mm
4.75mm
2.36mm
PLOTTING OF GRAPHS:
40 NIT NAGALAND
From the above result, graph is plotted on which ordinate shows percentage of aggregate passing and
abscissa shows the sieve size on logarithmic scale and a comparison of this curve is made with standard
specified curve for single size and graded coarse aggregate. The standard specified curve can be plotted
from the data given in Table 1.
PRECAUTIONS:
1) Aggregate sample should be air dried, to prevent clotting of sieves.

2) Care should be taken to see that the sieves are not surcharged. For coarse aggregate being sieved
through 30cm diameter size, weight of sample should not exceed 1Kg.
3) Sieving should be done by giving varied motion so that each particle gets sufficient chance of passing
through the sieve opening.
REPORT:
1) Specimen calculations.
Sample calculations for percentage retained and cumulative percentage retained must be shown.
2) Drawing of sketches: Sketch of sieve assembly with sizes written.
3) Plotting of graphs (grading curve of the aggregate and the standard grading zone).
4) Conclusion/ Discussion: Result, sources of error, precautions, nature of grading curve, difficulty in
carrying out the experiment, limitation of instrument used in the experiment must be highlighted.
Conclusion may be drawn in the form “well graded”, “uniform sized”, “only partly graded”
mentioning the nominal size of the aggregate.
REFERENCES:
● IS: 2386 (Part-I) - 1963 Methods of test for aggregates for concrete: Part- I Particle size and shape.
● IS: 460- 1962- IS specification for Test Sieves.
● IS: 383- 1970 Specification for coarse and fine aggregates from natural sources for concrete.
● Concrete Technology by M.L Gambhir, Tata McGraw Hill Publication.
● Properties of concrete by A.M. Neville, E.L.B.S.
***
41 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO: 11 Determination of Flakiness Index of Coarse Aggregate
AIM: To determine the flakiness index of coarse aggregate
1. To understand the theory of flakiness index.

2. To collect the true representative sample from stock pile.
3. To set up the experiment.
4. To follow the procedural steps with precautions
5. To fill up the observation table correctly
6. To prepare a report as per instructions
THEORY:
The particle shape of aggregate is determined by the percentages of flaky and elongated particles
contained in it. In case of gravel it is determined by its Angularity Number. Flakiness and Elongation tests
are conducted on coarse aggregates to assess the shape of aggregates. Aggregates which are flaky or
elongated are detrimental to the higher workability and stability of mixes. They are not conducive to good
interlocking and hence the mixes with an excess of such particles are difficult to compact to the required
degree. For base coarse and construction of bituminous and cement concrete types, the presence of flaky
and elongated particles are considered undesirable as they may cause inherent weakness with probabilities
of breaking down under heavy loads. Rounded aggregates are preferred in cement concrete road
construction as the workability of concrete improves. Angular shape of particles are desirable for granular
base coarse due to increased stability derived from the better interlocking when the shape of aggregates
deviates more from the spherical shape, as in the case of angular, flaky and elongated aggregates, the void
content in an aggregate of any specified size increases and hence the grain size distribution of the graded
aggregates has to be suitably altered in order to obtain minimum voids in the dry mix or the highest dry
density.
The flakiness index of aggregates is the percentage by particles whose least dimension (thickness) is less
than 3/5th (0.6) of their mean dimension. The test is not applicable to sizes smaller than 6.3 mm

1. Weigh balance with 0.1 percent accuracy.
2. Metal Gauges
3. I.S. sieves of sizes 63, 50, 40, 31.5, 25, 20, 16, 12.5, 10 and 6.3 mm
42 NIT NAGALAND
PREPARATION OF SAMPLE: A quantity of aggregate shall be taken sufficient to provide the
minimum number of 200 pieces of any fraction to be tested.
PROCEDURE:
1. Sieving: Arrange the sieve in order as mentioned below.

63mm, 50mm, 40mm, 31.5mm, 25mm, 20mm, 16mm,12.5mm, 10 mm & 6.3mm
2. Note the total weight of 200 sample pieces as (W)
3. Separation of Flaky Materials: Each fraction retained in the respective sieves shall be gauged in
turn for thickness on a metal gauge.
4. Weighing the Flaky materials: The total amount passing through each gauge shall be weighed
to an accuracy of at least 0.1 percent of the weight of the test sample. Note down the
weight as w1, w2……….
43 NIT NAGALAND
OBSERVATION:
● WEIGHT OF THE SPECIMEN- 200 PCS (W) =
SL NO IS SIEVE SIZES (mm) WEIGHT OF THE FLAKY

MATERIALS (gm)
PASSING RETAINED
1 63 50
2 50 40
3 40 31.5
4 31.5 25
5 25 20
6 20 16
7 16 12.5
8 12.5 10
9 10 6.3
Total (W1)
RESULT: The flakiness index is the total weight of the material passing the various thickness
gauges or sieves, expressed as a percentage of the total weight of the sample gauged.
𝑊1
Flakiness Index = 𝑊
𝑥 100 %
PRECAUTIONS:
1. All appliance & aggregates should be neat & clean
2. Aggregates should be air dried to prevent clogging in sieve.
3. Care should be taken such that sieves are not surcharged.
CONCLUSION:
44 NIT NAGALAND
REPORT:
3. Results:
4. Discussions
REFERENCE:
● IS 2386 (Part- I) – 1963, “Method of test for aggregates for concrete: Part-I Particle size and
shapes”
● IS 383- 1970, “Specification for coarse and fine aggregate from natural sources for concrete.
***
45 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO: 12 Determination of Elongation Index of Coarse Aggregate
AIM: To determine the Elongation index of coarse aggregate
1. To understand the theory of elongation index.

2. To collect the true representative sample from stock pile.
THEORY:
The particle shape of aggregate is determined by the percentages of flaky and elongated particles
contained in it. In case of gravel it is determined by its Angularity Number. Flakiness and Elongation tests
are conducted on coarse aggregates to assess the shape of aggregates. Aggregates which are flaky or
elongated are detrimental to the higher workability and stability of mixes. They are not conducive to good
interlocking and hence the mixes with an excess of such particles are difficult to compact to the required
degree. For base coarse and construction of bituminous and cement concrete types, the presence of flaky
and elongated particles are considered undesirable as they may cause inherent weakness with probabilities
of breaking down under heavy loads. Rounded aggregates are preferred in cement concrete road
construction as the workability of concrete improves. Angular shape of particles are desirable for granular
base coarse due to increased stability derived from the better interlocking when the shape of aggregates
deviates more from the spherical shape, as in the case of angular, flaky and elongated aggregates, the void
content in an aggregate of any specified size increases and hence the grain size distribution of the graded
aggregates has to be suitably altered in order to obtain minimum voids in the dry mix or the highest dry
density.
The elongation index of an aggregate is the percentage by weight of particles whose greatest dimension
(length) is greater than 1 and 4/5th times (1.8 times) their mean dimensions. The elongation test is not
applicable to sizes smaller than 6.3 mm.

2. Metal length Gauges
3. I.S. sieves of sizes 63, 50, 40, 31.5, 25, 20, 16, 12.5, 10 and 6.3 mm
46 NIT NAGALAND
PREPARATION OF SAMPLE: A quantity of aggregate shall be taken sufficient to provide the
minimum number of 200 pieces of any fraction to be tested.
PROCEDURE:
1. Sieving: Arrange the sieve in order as mentioned below.

63mm, 50mm, 40mm, 31.5mm, 25mm, 20mm, 16mm,12.5mm, 10 mm & 6.3mm
2. Note the total weight of 200 sample pieces as (W)
3. Separation of Flaky Materials: Each fraction retained in the respective sieves shall be gauged in on a
metal length gauge.
4. Weighing the Flaky materials: The total amount retaining through each gauge shall be weighed to
an accuracy of at least 0.1 percent of the weight of the test sample. Note down the weight as
w1, w2……….
47 NIT NAGALAND
OBSERVATION:
● WEIGHT OF THE SPECIMEN- 200 PCS (W) =
SL NO IS SIEVE SIZES (mm) WEIGHT OF THE ELONGATED

MATERIALS (gm)
PASSING RETAINED
1 63 50
2 50 40
3 40 31.5
4 31.5 25
5 25 20
6 20 16
7 16 12.5
8 12.5 10
9 10 6.3
Total (W1)
RESULT: The Elongation index is the total weight of the material retained the various length
gauges or sieves, expressed as a percentage of the total weight of the sample gauged.
𝑊1
Elongation Index = 𝑊
𝑥 100 %
COMBINED FLAKINESS & ELONGATION INDEX: Combined flakiness and elongation index is
calculated by adding both the flakiness and elongation index of the aggregate sample. As per IS code it
should not exceed 40 % for uncrushed and crushed aggregates.
Combined Flakiness & Elongation index= Flakiness Index + Elongation index
PRECAUTIONS:
48 NIT NAGALAND
3. Care should be taken such that sieves are not surcharged.
CONCLUSION:
REPORT:
3. Results:
4. Discussions
REFERENCE:
● IS 2386 (Part- I) – 1963, “Method of test for aggregates for concrete: Part-I Particle size and
shapes”
● IS 383- 1970, “Specification for coarse and fine aggregate from natural sources for concrete.”
***
49 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO: 13 Determination of Specific gravity and Water absorption of

aggregate
AIM: Determination of specific gravity and water absorption of aggregate smaller than 10 mm.
1. To define specific gravity, apparent specific gravity of the aggregate.

2. To define water absorption of the aggregate.
3. List the limits in which specific gravity falls.
5. To follow the procedural steps with precautions.
6. To fill up the observation table correctly.
7. To report as per instructions.
THEORY:
The specific gravity of an aggregate is defined as the ratio of the mass of the solid of given volume of
sample to the mass of an equal volume of gas free distilled water, both taken at the standard temperature
i.e. 27 degree centigrade. Since the aggregate generally contains voids, there are different types of
specific gravities. The absolute specific gravity refers to the volume of solid material excluding all pores,
and therefore, is defined as the ratio of the mass of solid to the weight of an equal gas free volume of
water at stated temperature. Generally it is not required for civil engineering construction work. If the
volume of the solid is deemed to include the impermeable pores, but not the capillary ones, the resulting
specific gravity is called “apparent specific gravity”. The apparent specific gravity is then the ratio of the
mass of the aggregate dried in an oven at 100ºC to 110º C for 24 hours to the mass of water occupying a
volume equal to that of the solid including the impermeable pores. The specific gravity most frequently
required and easily determined, known as “gross apparent specific gravity”, is based on the saturated and
surface- dry condition of the aggregate because the water absorbed in the pores of the aggregate does not
take part in the chemical reaction of the cement and can, therefore, be considered as a part of the
aggregate. This specific gravity is required for the calculation of the yield of concrete or of the quantity of
aggregate required for a given volume of concrete. It is seen that the higher the specific gravity of an
aggregate, the harder and stronger it is likely to be. If the specific gravity is above or below that normally
assigned to a particular type of aggregate, it may indicate that the shape and grading of the aggregate has
changed.
Apparent average specific gravity of different rock groups are:
Basalt: 2.80, Granite: 2.7 Lime stone: 2.66 with a wide range of variation. The apparent specific gravity
of majority of natural aggregate lies between 2.6 and 2.7.
50 NIT NAGALAND
If the aggregate is dry, it absorbs water, which takes part neither in chemical reaction nor in lubrication of
particles. Thus, if the phenomenon of absorption is ignored in totally dry aggregates, both workability and
effective w/c ratio are reduced.
Absorption of air- dried aggregates is, however, less than one dry aggregate. The absorption and porosity
affect the bond between the aggregate and the cement paste, the resistance of concrete to freezing and
thawing, stability and resistance to abrasion. The water absorption is determined by measuring the
decrease in mass of a saturated and surface dry sample after oven drying for 24 hours. The percentage of
water absorbed by an aggregate when immersed in water is termed as absorption of aggregate.

As per IS 2386 (Part III) – 1963 the apparatus to be used are as follows:
1. Weigh balance- A balance or scale of capacity not less than 3 kg, readable and accurate to 0.5g and of
such type as to permit the weighing the vessel containing the aggregate and water.
2. Oven- A well ventilated, thermostatically controlled oven in order to maintain the temperature of 100º
C to 110º C.
3. Pycnonmeter
4. Cloth- Two dry soft absorbent clothes, each not less than 75 x 45 cm
5. Tray- A shallow tray of area not less than 325 cm 2
6. Container- an airtight container large enough to take the sample.
MATERIALS USED: Aggregate, water etc.
PROCEDURE:
Take about 500 gm of aggregate or weight the amount of aggregate for sample as instructed. Aggregate,
which have been artificially heated, shall not be normally be used, if such aggregate is used then it should
be mentioned in the report.
1. The sample is placed in the pyconmeter and immersed in distilled water for 24 hours at temperature of
22º C to 32º C.
2. At the end of soaking period remove the air bubbles on the surface of aggregate, which is achieved by
rapid clockwise and anticlockwise rotation of vessel between operator’s hands.
3. The pyconmeter is filled up to the brim by adding distilled water and the ground glass disc is slid over
the mouth so that no air is trapped in the vessel. Dry the vessel from outside and weigh (A).
4. The pyconmeter is emptied by draining off the aggregate. Again fill the pyconmeter with distilled
water. The pyconmeter is dried from outside and it’s weighed (B).
51 NIT NAGALAND
5. The aggregate is spread over an enamel tray and exposed to the atmosphere (away from direct sun
light) not less than 10 minutes until it is fully dried and then weighed ©.
6. Then the aggregate is placed in the thermostatically controlled oven maintaining the temperature 100º
C to 110º C for 24 hours. It is then cooled in the air tight container and weighed (D).
7. Enter the readings correctly in the observation table and determine the specific gravity and water
absorption.
OBSERVATION:
SL OBSERVATIONS SAMPLE-I SAMPLE-II

NO
1 Weight of pyconmeter + Sample + water (A) gm
2 Weight of pyconmeter + water (B) gm
3 Weight of saturated & surface dry sample (C) gm
4 Weight of oven dried sample (D) gm
5 Specific gravity=
𝐷
𝐶−(𝐴−𝐵)
6 Apparent Specific gravity=

𝐷
𝐷−(𝐴−𝐵)
7 Water Absorption = (C-D) x

100
𝐷
Average values:
● Specific gravity=
● Apparent Specific gravity=
● Water Absorption=
LIMITS:
● Specific gravity should be between 2.5 to 2.8
● Water absorptions should be between 0.5 % to 2.0 %
PRECAUTIONS:
1. Washing and screening of the sample should be done.
52 NIT NAGALAND
2. Proper care should be taken so that there is no air bubbles in the glass vessel and aggregate surface
before weighing (A)
3. Temperature of the oven should be properly maintained
4. Record the observation correctly
5. Weighing should be proper.
CONCLUSION:
REPORT:
3. Results:
4. Discussions
REFERENCE:
● IS 2386 (Part- III) – 1963, “Methods of test for aggregates for concrete, Part 3: Specific gravity,
density, voids, absorption and bulking [CED 2: Cement and Concrete]
***
53 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO: 14 Determination of Specific gravity and Water absorption of

aggregate
AIM: Determination of specific gravity and water absorption of aggregate having size in between 10 mm
to 40 mm.
1. To define specific gravity, apparent specific gravity of the aggregate.

2. To define water absorption of the aggregate.
3. List the limits in which specific gravity falls.
5. To follow the procedural steps with precautions.
6. To fill up the observation table correctly.
7. To report as per instructions.
THEORY:
The specific gravity of an aggregate is defined as the ratio of the mass of the solid of given volume of
sample to the mass of an equal volume of gas free distilled water, both taken at the standard temperature
i.e. 27 degree centigrade. Since the aggregate generally contains voids, there are different types of
specific gravities. The absolute specific gravity refers to the volume of solid material excluding all pores,
and therefore, is defined as the ratio of the mass of solid to the weight of an equal gas free volume of
water at stated temperature. Generally it is not required for civil engineering construction work. If the
volume of the solid is deemed to include the impermeable pores, but not the capillary ones, the resulting
specific gravity is called “apparent specific gravity”. The apparent specific gravity is then the ratio of the
mass of the aggregate dried in an oven at 100ºC to 110º C for 24 hours to the mass of water occupying a
volume equal to that of the solid including the impermeable pores. The specific gravity most frequently
required and easily determined, known as “gross apparent specific gravity”, is based on the saturated and
surface- dry condition of the aggregate because the water absorbed in the pores of the aggregate does not
take part in the chemical reaction of the cement and can, therefore, be considered as a part of the
aggregate. This specific gravity is required for the calculation of the yield of concrete or of the quantity of
aggregate required for a given volume of concrete. It is seen that the higher the specific gravity of an
aggregate, the harder and stronger it is likely to be. If the specific gravity is above or below that normally
assigned to a particular type of aggregate, it may indicate that the shape and grading of the aggregate has
changed.
Apparent average specific gravity of different rock groups are:
54 NIT NAGALAND
Basalt: 2.80, Granite: 2.7 Lime stone: 2.66 with a wide range of variation. The apparent specific gravity
of majority of natural aggregate lies between 2.6 and 2.7.
If the aggregate is dry, it absorbs water, which takes part neither in chemical reaction nor in lubrication of
particles. Thus, if the phenomenon of absorption is ignored in totally dry aggregates, both workability and
effective w/c ratio are reduced.
Absorption of air- dried aggregates is, however, less than one dry aggregate. The absorption and porosity
affect the bond between the aggregate and the cement paste, the resistance of concrete to freezing and
thawing, stability and resistance to abrasion. The water absorption is determined by measuring the
decrease in mass of a saturated and surface dry sample after oven drying for 24 hours. The percentage of
water absorbed by an aggregate when immersed in water is termed as absorption of aggregate.

As per IS 2386 (Part III) – 1963 the apparatus to be used are as follows:
1. Weigh balance- A balance or scale of capacity not less than 3 kg, readable and accurate to 0.5g and of
such type as to permit the weighing the vessel containing the aggregate and water.
2. Oven- A well ventilated, thermostatically controlled oven in order to maintain the temperature of 100º
C to 110º C.
3. Glass vessel- A wide mouth glass vessel of about 1.5 litres capacity, with a flat ground lip and a plane
ground disc of plate glass to cover it, giving a virtually water tight fit.
4. Cloth- Two dry soft absorbent clothes, each not less than 75 x 45 cm
5. Tray- A shallow tray of area not less than 325 cm 2
6. Container- an airtight container large enough to take the sample.
MATERIALS USED: Aggregate, water etc.
PROCEDURE:
Take about 1 kg of aggregate or weight the amount of aggregate for sample as instructed. Aggregate,
which have been artificially heated, shall not be normally be used, if such aggregate is used then it should
be mentioned in the report.
1. The sample is washed to remove the particles of dust after screening the sample through 10 mm IS
sieve.
2. The sample is placed in the vessel and immersed in distilled water for 24 hours at temperature of 22º
C to 32º C.
55 NIT NAGALAND
3. At the end of soaking period remove the air bubbles on the surface of aggregate, which is achieved by
rapid clockwise and anticlockwise rotation of vessel between operator’s hands.
4. The vessel is filled up to the brim by adding distilled water and the ground glass disc is slid over the
mouth so that no air is trapped in the vessel. Dry the vessel from outside and weigh (A).
5. The vessel is emptied by draining off the aggregate. Again fill the vessel with distilled water. Slide the
ground disc as before. The vessel is dried from outside and it’s weighed (B).
6. The aggregate is placed on a dry cloth to get it surface dried with hand then it is transferred to a
second cloth when the first will remove no further moisture.
7. The aggregate is spread over second cloth and exposed to the atmosphere (away from direct sun light)
not less than 10 minutes until it is fully dried and then weighed ©.
8. Then the aggregate is placed in the thermostatically controlled oven maintaining the temperature 100º
C to 110º C for 24 hours. It is then cooled in the air tight container and weighed (D).
9. Enter the readings correctly in the observation table and determine the specific gravity and water
absorption.
OBSERVATION:
SL OBSERVATIONS SAMPLE-I SAMPLE-II

NO
1 Weight of Vessel + Sample + water (A) gm
2 Weight of Vessel + water (B) gm
3 Weight of saturated & surface dry sample (C) gm
4 Weight of oven dried sample (D) gm
5 Specific gravity=
𝐷
𝐶−(𝐴−𝐵)
6 Apparent Specific gravity=

𝐷
𝐷−(𝐴−𝐵)
7 Water Absorption = (C-D) x

100
𝐷
Average values:
● Specific gravity=
● Apparent Specific gravity=
56 NIT NAGALAND
● Water Absorption=
LIMITS:
● Specific gravity should be between 2.5 to 2.8
● Water absorptions should be between 0.5 % to 2.0 %
PRECAUTIONS:
1. Washing and screening of the sample should be done.
2. Proper care should be taken so that there is no air bubbles in the glass vessel and aggregate surface
before weighing (A)
3. Temperature of the oven should be properly maintained
4. Record the observation correctly
5. Weighing should be proper.
CONCLUSION:
REPORT:
3. Results:
4. Discussions
REFERENCE:
● IS 2386 (Part- III) – 1963, “Methods of test for aggregates for concrete, Part 3: Specific gravity,
density, voids, absorption and bulking [CED 2: Cement and Concrete]
***
57 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO. 15: Determination of Bulking Factor of Sand
AIM: To determine the percentage Bulking of a given sand
PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES
a) To determine and to explain the bulking of fine aggregate

b) To state necessary instruments/ equipment used
c) To follow the procedural steps with precautions
d) To fill up the observation table appropriately
e) To report as per instructions
THEORY:
Bulking is defined as the increase in volume of given sand caused by films of surface water, thereby
pushing the sand particles apart due to surface tension. Fine sand particles bulk more than the coarse sand
because, fine sand has more number of particles per unit volume and consequently more surface area.
With the moisture content of about 5 to 8 percent, the increase of volume of sand may vary from 20 to 40
percent depending upon the fineness of sand. Normally, beyond this percentage of moisture content,
bulking tends to decrease. For saturated sand the volume is approximately the same when it is measured
under dry and loose state.
In a concrete mix when sand is measured by volume, its bulking results in smaller weights of sand
occupying the fixed volume measuring box. The concrete mix then becomes harsh, deficient in sand and
is prone to seggregation. The yield of concrete is also reduced. Therefore, while adding fine aggregate to
the concrete mix by volume, the specified volume of sand based on dry condition is corrected by
appropriately increasing its volume because of bulking at a moist condition. Thus, with volume batching,
bulking has to be allowed for by increasing the total volume of (moist) sand used. This is done by
multiplying the Vs with a factor, given by Vm/Vs, that is known as ‘bulking factor’, where Vs is the
volume of the sand in the saturated state (which is approximately equal to the volume of dry loosely
packed sand), and Vm is the initial apparent volume of the moist sand (i.e., the corrected volume of the
container). Percentage bulking will then be given by (Vm/Vs – 1) x 100. Therefore, we need to know the
graph either showing percentage bulking or bulking factor against moisture content of sand.
1) A container
2) Steel ruler
3) Steel rod 6mm diameter
58 NIT NAGALAND
4) 250 c.c. measuring cylinder
SPECIMEN SUPPLIED:
Sample of sand
PROCEDURE:
The procedure to be adopted may be varied, but two methods are suggested. Both the methods depend on
the the fact that the volume of inundated (fully saturated) sand is the same as if the sand were dry.
METHOD – I
1) Pour sufficient quantity of sand loosely into a container until it is about 2/3 full. (The moisture content
is to be known that if a curve of percentage bulking verses moisture content is to be drawn).
2) Level off the top sand. Push a steel ruler, at the middle of the surface, vertically down through the
sand to its bottom. Measure this height, say equal to h mm
3) Empty the sand out of this container into another container.
4) Fill the first container with water to about half of its volume.
5) Put back about half of the volume of sand and rod it with a steel rod, 6mm in diameter, so that its
volume reduces to a minimum.
6) Add remainder of sand and rod it in the same way.
7) Smooth and level the top surface of inundated (submerged in water) sand and measure its depth at the
middle with steel ruler. Measure its height say equal to h1 mm.
METHOD- II
1) In a 250 ml measuring cylinder pour the damp sand, consolidated by shaking, until it reaches about
200ml mark. (Xml)
2) Take the sand out. Fill the cylinder with water to a depth greater than 100ml and refill it with the sand
and stir the sand well.
3) Watch that the surface is now below the original level. Measure its volume say equal to Y ml.
PRECAUTONS:
1) Consolidation by shaking is to be done frequently while pouring sand in to the cylinder.

2) Height of inundated sand should be measured correctly.
3) No sand should be lost in transferring from one container to another.
59 NIT NAGALAND
Note: A larger cylinder has been observed at NITTTR, Kolkata to give more consistent results possibly
because of smaller wall effect due to larger diameter.
OBSERVATION TABLES:
METHOD- I
Trial Height of Loose Sand Height of saturated Percentage Bulking Average value
sets Sl. (h) mm sand (h1) mm ℎ−ℎ1
x 100
ℎ1
No.
1
2
3
4
METHOD- II
Trial Volume of Loose Sand Volume of saturated Percentage Bulking Average value
sets Sl. = X ml sand = Y ml 𝑋−𝑌
x 100
𝑌
No.
1
2
3
4
REPORT:
1) Specimen calculations: Percentage- bulking calculations are to be given.

2) Drawing of sketches: Sketch the necessary instruments and equipment
3) Draw a curve between % bulking or bulking factor ( Y- axis) and moisture content (X – axis)
4) Result : Maximum percentage of bulking (Method I) at moisture content of ________ =
Maximum percentage of bulking (Method II) at moisture content of ________=
5) Conclusion/ Discussion
REFERENCES:
● IS: 2386 (Part III) – 1963 Methods of test for aggregates for concrete Part- III, Specific gravity,
density, voids, absorption and bulking.
60 NIT NAGALAND
● Concrete Technology by M.L Gambhir, Tata McGraw Hill Publication.
● Properties of concrete by A.M. Neville, E.L.B.S
***
EXPERIMENT NO: 16 Determination of Fine sand, Clay & Silt contents of sand (Field
method)
AIM: To determine the fine sand, clay & silt contents of sand (Field method)
a. To define clay, fine, silt and fine dust.

b. To set up the experiment.
c. To prepare the test arrangement.
THEORY:
Clay may be present in aggregate in the form of surface coatings, which interfere with the bond between
aggregate and the cement paste. There are two more types of fine materials which can be present in
aggregate: Silt and dust. Clay is a material of size below 2 micron and silt is material between 2 micron &
60 micron. Fine dust fine dusts are crusher dust formed during crushing of aggregates. Silt and fine dust
may form coating similar to those of clay, or may be present in the form of loose particles not bonded to
the aggregate. Silt and fine dust should not be present in excessive quantities because owing to their
fineness, that means larger surface area, silt and fine dust increases the amount of water necessary to wet
all the particles in the mix. Therefore it is necessary to control the clay, silt and fine dust contents of
aggregate.

2. Measuring cylinders
3. IS sieve 4.75 mm
1. Sand sample
2. Common salt
3. Water
61 NIT NAGALAND
PROCEDURE:
1. Sieve the materials through IS 4.75 mm sieve. The aggregate passing through must be taken for
testing.
2. First prepare a 1% salt solution & fill the cylinder.
3. Add sand to it until the level reaches 100 ml. Fill the cylinder with water upto a mark of 150 ml
4. Cover the cylinder and shake it well without spilling.
5. Leave the cylinder for a period of 3 hours, the silt content settled down over the sand layer
6. Now note down the silt layer alone volume as V1 ml (settled over the sand)
7. Then note down the sand volume (below the silt) as V2 ml
8. Repeat the procedure two more times to get the average
OBSERVATION:
SL NO OBSERVATIONS SAMPLE-I SAMPLE-II
1 Volume of silt layer (V1)
2 Volume of sand (below the silt layer) V2
3 Percentage of Silt content

𝑉1
𝑥 100
𝑉2
4 Average percentage of silt content
RESULT:
PERMISSIBLE LIMIT: The permissible Silt content in sand percentage is only 6%.
PRECAUTIONS:
3. Care should be taken during sieving & shaking.
CONCLUSION:
REPORT:
62 NIT NAGALAND
3. Results:
4. Discussions
***
EXPERIMENT NO.17: Determination of Fine, Silt, Clay & Fine Dust Content in Sand
AIM: To determine the Clay, Fine Silt and Fine Dust content in fine aggregate (Sedimentation Method).
1) To define clay, fine silt and fine dust

2) To set up the experiment
3) To prepare the test arrangement
4) To follow the procedural steps with precautions
5) To fill up the observation table appropriately
6) To write the report as per instructions
THEORY:
Clay may be present in aggregate in the form of surface coatings, which interfere with the bond between
aggregate and the cement paste. There are two more types of fine material, which can be present in
aggregate: silt and dust. Clay is a material of size below 2µm and silt is materials between 2µm to 60µm.
Fine dusts are crusher dusts formed during crushing of aggregates. Silt and fine dust may form coatings
similar to those of clay, or may be present in the form of loose particles not bonded to the aggregate. Silt
and fine dust should not be present in excessive quantities because owing to their fineness, that means
larger surface area, silt and fine dust increase the amount of water necessary to wet all the particles in the
mix. Therefore it is necessary to control the clay, silt and fine dust contents of aggregate.
It should be as per IS: 2386(Part II) – 1963 as follows:
1) A watertight screw- topped glass jar of dimensions similar to a 1-kg fruit preserving jar.
63 NIT NAGALAND
2) A device for rotating the jar about its long axis, with this horizontal, at a speed of 80 ± 20 revolutions
as per minute.
3) A sedimentation pipette of the Anderson type of approximately 25ml. Capacity and of the general
form indicated. This consists mainly of a pipette fitted at the top with a two-way tap and held rigidly
in a clamp, which can be raised or lowered as required, and which is fitted with a scale from which
the changes in height of the pipette can be read. The volume of pipette A, including the connecting
bore of the tap 13, is determined by filling with distilled water; by reversing the tap, the water is run
out into a bottle, weighed and the volume calculated.
4) A 1000ml measuring cylinder.
5) A scale or balance of capacity not less than 10kg, readable and accurate to one gram.
6) A scale or balance of capacity not less than 250g, readable and accurate to 0.001g
7) A well- ventilated oven, thermostatically controlled, to maintain a temperature of 100°C to 110°C
SPECIMEN SUPPLIED:
The material for the test shall be prepared fom the main sample taking particular care that test sample
contains a correct proportion of the finer material. The sample may be of air-dried condition before
testing. Approximate of weight of sample for test will be about 1, 0.5 and 0.3 kg respectively for
maximum size of 20mm, 10mm and 4.75mm aggregates.
PROCEDURE:
A. Method for fine aggregate:

1) Sieve the material through 4.75mm IS- Sieve. The aggregates passing through 4.75mm sieve
comprise the test material.
2) Take about 300gm of sample in air dried condition.
3) Prepare a solution containing 8gm of Sodium Oxalate per liter of distilled water. For use, this stock
solution is diluted with distilled to one tenth (i.e., 100ml diluted with distilled water to one litre).
4) Pour the fine aggregate with 300 ml of the diluted sodium oxalate solution in the screw- topped glass
jar.
5) Fix the rubber washer and cap, care being taken to ensure water tightness.
6) Rotate the jar about its longitudinal axis, with this axis horizontal, at a speed of 80±20 revolution per
minute for a period of 15minutes.
7) After completion of 15minutes’ rotation, the suspension shall be poured into 1000ml measuring
cylinder (sedimentation tube) and the residue shall be washed by gentle swirling and decantation of
64 NIT NAGALAND
successive 150ml portions of sodium oxalate solution, the washing being added to the cylinder until
the volume is made upto 1000ml.
8) Mix the suspension in the measuring cylinder thoroughly by inversion and the tube and contents
immediately placed in position under the pipette. The pipette A shall then be gently lowered until the
tip touches the surface of the liquid and then lowered a further 10-cm into the liquid. Three minutes
after placing the tube in position, A and the bore of tap B shall be filled by opening B and applying
gently suction at C. A small surplus may be drawn up into the bulb between tap B and tube C, but this
shall be allowed to run away and any solid matter shall be washed out with distilled water from E.
The pipette shall then be removed from the measuring cylinder and its contents run into a weighed
container, any adherent solids being washed into the container by distilled water from E through the
tap B. The contents of the container shall be dried at 100°C to 110°C to constant weight, cooled and
weighed.
B. Methods for Coarse Aggregate:
1. The weighed sample shall be placed in a suitable container, covered with a measured volume of
sodium oxalate solution (0.8 g/l), agitated vigorously to remove all adherent fine material and the
liquid suspension tramsferred to the 100ml measuring cylinder (sedimentation tube).
2. This process shall be repeated as necessary until all clayey material has been transferred to the
cylinder.
3. The volume shall be made up to 100ml with sodium oxalate solution and the determination is
completed as in step 8 for fine aggregate.
OBSERVATION:
OBSERVATIONS Sample I Sample II

Weight of air- dry sample = W1 gm
Weight of dried residue = W2 gm
Volume of pipette = V ml
Weight of sodium oxalate in one litre of diluted
solution = 0.8 gm
Percentage of clay and fine silt or fine dust =
1 1000𝑊2
𝑊1
( 𝑉
- 0.8) x 100
Mean =
Percentage of clay, fine silt and fine dust content =
PRECAUTIONS:
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1) Fine aggregate used for test should be of air- dry condition.
2) The test sample should be prepared carefully from the main sample.
3) Saving of the material is to be done carefully.
4) In the preparation of sodium oxalate solution, care should be taken for accuracy and to avoid chemical
hazard.
REPORT:
1) Drawing of sketches:
Sketch the outlines of the sedimentation pipette
2) Result:
The clay, fine silt and fine dust content of the given sample = %
Comment on test results obtained by you in laboratory. Compare your values with the specified/
standard values for the type of aggregate used by you. Give your comments on the suitability of using
the aggregate sample tested by you for the purpose of construction work. Note that various limits for
clay, fine silt and dust content, as a whole, are specified for concrete of difficult quality and use. For
good quality concrete total content should not exceed 2 to 4 percent depending on the grade and
purpose. Higher limits are permitted in certain cases for moderate to inferior quality concrete. Simpler
field test (Properties of Concrete- by A.M. Neville, page 138-139) for natural sand can be easily done
at site. Total content of clay, fine silt and fine dust can be reduced significantly by washing the
aggregate with water at site. The lower the above content better is the bond between cement and
aggregates and consequently stronger and more durable the concrete becomes.
REFERENCES:
● IS: 2386 (Part II)- 1963 Methods of test for aggregates for concrete. Part- II Estimation of
deleterious materials and organic impurities.
● Properties of concrete – A.M. Neville, ELBS Publication
● Laboratory Manual for Concrete Technology – P.D. Kulkarni & L.N. Mittal, TTTI Chandigargh
Publication.
***
66 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO: 18 Determination of Aggregate Crushing Value.
AIM: To determine the Aggregate Crushing value
a. To define aggregate crushing value.

b. To prepare aggregate sample from stock pile.
c. To set up & prepare the test arrangement.
g. To assess suitability of an aggregate especially for constructions of roads.
THEORY:
The aggregate crushing value gives a relative measure of the resistance of an aggregate to crushing under
a gradually applied compressive load. It is the percentage by weight of the initially untested standard size
aggregate that gets crushed smaller than a specified size when subjected to specific load under standard
conditions. The standard aggregate crushing test is made on aggregate is placed through 12.5 mm IS sieve
and retained on 10 mm IS sieve. The aggregate is placed in a cylindrical mould and a load of 40 tonnes is
applied through plunger. The material crushed to finer than 2.36 mm is separated and expressed as
percentage of the original weight taken on the mould. This percentage is referred to as aggregate crushing
value. It is, therefore, a numerical index; higher the value, higher is the proneness of the aggregate to get
crushed under load.
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Is: 383: 1970 prescribes a 45 percentage limit for the crushing value determined as per IS: 2386 (Part-IV):
1963 for the aggregate used for concrete other than for wearing surface and 30 percent for concrete for
wearing surfaces such as runways, roads, and pavements.

Aggregate crushing value apparatus IS: 2386 (Part- IV): 1963 is shown in the figure:
1. The test mould has a 15.2 cm diameter open ended steel cylinder with square base plate, a plunger
having piston of diameter 15 cm, with a hole provided across the stem of the plunger so that a rod
could be inserted for lifting or placing the plunger in the cylinder.
2. A straight metal tampering rod of circular cross section, 16 mm in diameter and 45 to 69 cm long,
rounder at one end.
3. A balance of capacity 5kg, readable upto1 gm
4. IS Sieve of sizes- 12.5 mm, 10mm, 2.36mm
5. A compressive testing machine capable of applying load up to 40 tonnes at a uniform rate of 4 tonnes
per minutes.
6. A cylindrical measure having internal diameter of 11.5 cm and height 18 cm.
SPECIMEN SUPPLIED:
The material for the standard test consist of aggregate sized 10 mm to 12.5 mm. the aggregate should be
in surface dry condition before testing. The aggregate may be dried by heating at 100- 110º C for not
more than 4 hours and cooled to room temperature before testing, if necessary.
PROCEDURE:
1. Sieve the material through 12.5 mm and 10 mm IS Sieve. The aggregate passing through 12.5 mm
and retained on 10 mm IS Sieve comprises the test materials.
2. Take about 3.25 kg of this material.
3. Pour the aggregate to fill about just more than 1/3rd depth of the measuring cylinder.
4. Compact the material by giving 25 gentle blows with the rounded end of the tampering rod.
5. Add two more layers in similar manner, such that the cylinder is full.
6. Remove the excess materials with a straight edge. The quantity of aggregate contained in the
measuring cylinder, which will be used to prepare the test specimen.
7. Empty the cylinder and weigh the aggregates, accurate up to 1 gm.
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8. Transfer the whole of this weighed quantity to the test mould by filling it in three layers in the same
manner as before. The total depth of the sample is then about 10 cms and the surface a little below the
top of the mould.
9. Level off the surface and place the plunger over it so that it rests horizontally on the surface of the
aggregates.
10. Place this assembly on the pedestal of compressive testing machine.
11. Apply the load at a uniform rate of 4 tonnes per minutes until the total load is 40 tonnes.
12. Release the load
13. Take the aggregate out of the cylinder and sieve them through 2.36mm IS sieve. Weigh this fraction
passing through it to an accuracy of 0.1 gm. This fraction is a measure of loss of material due to
crushing.
14. Note down the observations in the Performa and compute the aggregate crushing value. The mean of
two observations, rounded to nearest whole number is reported as “Agrregate Crushing Value.”
OBSERVATION:
1 Total Weight of dry sample (W1) gm
2 Weight of portion passing 2.36 mm IS

sieve (W2) gm
3 Aggregate Crushing value=

𝑊1
𝑥 100
𝑊2
4 Average Aggregate Crushing value
RESULT:
PRECAUTIONS:
2. Aggregates used for filling the mould should be in surface dry conditions.
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3. Tampering should be done properly by gently dropping the tampering rod and not by hammering
action. Also the tampering should be uniform over the surface of the aggregate taking care that the
tampering rod does not frequently strike the walls of the mould.
4. The plunger should be placed centrally on a level horizontal surface of aggregates in the mould.
5. The operation of sieving the aggregate through IS 2.36 mm sieve and weighing care should be taken
to avoid loss of fines. The sum of weights of fraction retained and passing the sieve should not differ
from the original weight of the specimen by more than 1 gm.
6. Compressive load should be applied on the plunger centrally, steadily and uniform staring from zero
to 40 tonnes in 10 minutes.
CONCLUSION:
REPORT:
3. Results:
4. Discussions
REFERENCES:
● IS 2386 (Part- IV) – 1963, “Method of test for aggregates for concrete: Part-IV Mechanical
properties.”
***
EXPERIMENT NO: 19 Determination of Aggregate Impact Value.
AIM: To determine the Aggregate Impact value
a. To define aggregate impact value.

b. To prepare aggregate sample from stock pile.
c. To set up & prepare the test arrangement.
g. To assess suitability of an aggregate especially for constructions of roads.
THEORY:
70 NIT NAGALAND
Toughness is the property of a material to easiest impact. Due to moving loads the aggregates are
subjected to pounding action or impact and there is possibility of stones breaking into smaller pieces.
Therefore a test designed to evaluate the toughness of stones i.e., the resistance of the stones to fracture
under repeated impacts may be called Impact test on aggregates. The test can also be carried on
cylindrical stone specimen known as Page Impact test. The aggregate Impact test has been standardized
by Indian Standard Institution. The aggregate impact test is conducted as per IS-2386 Part IV.
The aggregate Impact value indicates a relative measure of the resistance of aggregate to a sudden shock
or an Impact, which in some aggregates differs from its resistance to a slope compressive load in crushing
test. A modified Impact test is also often carried out in the case of soft aggregates to find the wet Impact
value after soaking the test sample.
Various agencies have specified the maximum permissible aggregate Impact values for the different types
of pavements. IRC has specified the following values.
The maximum allowable aggregate Impact value for water bound Macadam; Sub-Base coarse 50% where
as cement concrete used in base course is 45%. WBM base course with Bitumen surface in should be
40%. Bituminous Macadam base course should have A.I.V of 35%. All the surface courses should
possess an A.I.V below 30%.

Aggregate crushing value apparatus IS: 2386 (Part- IV): 1963 is shown in the figure:
1. The apparatus consists of an Impact testing machine: The machine consists of a metal base. A
detachable cylindrical steel cup of internal diameter 10.2 cm and depth 5 cm. A metal hammer of
weight between 13.5 to 14 kg, 10 cm in diameter and 5 cm long. An arrangement for raising the
hammer and allow it to fall freely between vertical guides from a height of 38 cm on the test sample
in the cup.
2. A cylindrical metal measure having 7.5 cm and depth of 5 cm for measuring aggregates.
3. A tamping rod of circular cross section, 1cm in diameter and 23 cm long, rounded at one end.
4. I.S. sieve of sizes 12.5 mm, 10 mm and 2.36 mm.
5. Balance of capacity not less than 500 gm to weigh accurate up to 0.01 gm.
SPECIMEN SUPPLIED:
The test sample consists of aggregates passing 12.5 mm sieve and retained on 10mm sieve and dried in an
oven for 4 hours at a temperature of 100 ºC to 110 ºC.
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PROCEDURE:
1. The aggregates are filled up to about 1/3 full in the cylindrical measure and tamped 25 times with
rounded end of the tamping rod.
2. The rest of the cylindrical measure is filled by two layers and each layer being tamped 25 times.
3. The overflow of aggregates in cylindrically measure is cut off by tamping rod using it has a straight
edge.
4. Then the entire aggregate sample in a measuring cylinder is weighted nearing to 0.01 gm and taken as
W1 gm.
5. The aggregates from the cylindrical measure are carefully transferred into the cup which is firmly
fixed in position on the base plate of machine. Then it is tamped 25 times.
6. The hammer is raised until its lower face is 38 cm above the upper surface of aggregates in the cup
and allowed to fall freely on the aggregates. The test sample is subjected to a total of 15 such blows
each being delivered at an interval of not less than one second. The crushed aggregate is than removed
from the cup and the whole of it is sieved on 2.36 mm sieve until no significant amount passes. The
fraction passing the sieve is weighed accurate to 0.1 gm. Repeat the above steps with other fresh
sample.
7. Let the original weight of the oven dry sample be w1gm and the weight of fraction passing 2.36 mm
I.S sieve be W2 gm. Then aggregate Impact value is expressed as the % of fines formed in terms of
the total weight of the sample.
8. Two tests are done and the average value to the nearest whole number is reported as aggregate impact
value.
OBSERVATION:
Weight of aggregate sample in the

1
measuring cylinder (W1) gm
Weight of portion passing 2.36 mm IS

2
sieve (W2) gm
72 NIT NAGALAND
𝑊2
3 Aggregate Impact value= 𝑊1
𝑥 100
4 Average Aggregate Impact value
RESULT:
PRECAUTIONS:
2. Aggregates used for filling the mould should be in surface dry conditions.
3. Tampering should be done properly by gently dropping the tampering rod and not by hammering
action. Also the tampering should be uniform over the surface of the aggregate taking care that the
tampering rod does not frequently strike the walls of the mould.
4. The operation of sieving the aggregate through IS 2.36 mm sieve and weighing care should be taken
to avoid loss of fines. The sum of weights of fraction retained and passing the sieve should not differ
from the original weight of the specimen by more than 1 gm.
CONCLUSION:
REPORT:
3. Results:
4. Discussions
REFERENCES:
● IS 2386 (Part- IV) – 1963, “Method of test for aggregates for concrete: Part-IV Mechanical
properties.”
****
EXPERIMENT NO: 20 Workability of Concrete-Slump Test

AIM: To determined the workability of concrete by slump test.
73 NIT NAGALAND
a. Define workability.
b. State the important properties of concrete related to workability.
c. Set up the apparatus and prepare sample.
d. Follow the procedural steps with precautions.
e. Record the observations appropriately.
f. Report as per instructions.
THEORY:
Workability is the ease with which concrete mix flows to the remotest corner of the formwork. In more
scientific term it is the property of the concrete, which determine the amount of useful internal work
necessary to produce full compaction. But in practice various requirements such as mixability, stability,
transportability, placability, mobility, compactability and finishability etc. are collectively referred to as
workability. IS-6461(Part VII)-1973 defines workability as that property of freshly mixed concrete or
mortar, which determines the ease of homogeneity with which it can be mixed, placed, compacted and
finished. For full compaction, concrete mix should posses three important properties adequately viz.,
mobility, cohesiveness and absence of harshness. Water is the most important factor, which affects
mobility, but higher w/c ratio reduces the strength of concrete. Too much of water may lead to segregation
and loss of cohesiveness and homogeneity. Similarly adopting coarser grade of aggregate can reduce
internal friction. Harshness in concrete is mostly due to presence of too much of coarser aggregate
specially if the coarse aggregate is flaky in nature. Harshness can be eliminate if there is adequate
proportion of mortar to fill the voids in the coarse aggregate, but this involves additional cost because of
increase consumption of cement. Factors including w/c ratio remaining constant, using a high amount of
cement per unit volume of concrete can increase the workability of a concrete mix.
Therefore, a good quality of concrete is to be obtained by appropriate proportioning of coarse and fine
aggregates as well as cement while the w/c ratio is fixed from compressive strength of concrete criterion.
Depending on narrowness of a section and its reinforcement content more congested section demand
higher values of workability.
There is really no unique method, which can measure the workability of concrete in its totality. A number
of empirical tests are available for checking the uniformity of workability of freshly mixed concrete. Each
test measures one or a few aspects of workability but slump test despite some limitations, is a very simple
and common one in use. The test is more useful to ensure the uniformity of a concrete mix by measuring
consistency or wetness rater than measuring the actual workability of concrete.
NECESSARY INSTRUMENTS/EQUIPMENT USED:
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1) A mould of metal of thickness 1.6mm in the form of a frustum of a cone with top and bottom open
and a smooth internal surface as shown in fig( i) below. It is also provided with foot pieces and
handles.
2) Tamping rod of steel 0.6 m long and 16 mm diameter with one end rounded.
3) Trough, trowel, G.I plain sheet, steel scale.
Fig I. Typical cone for slump test

SPECIMEN:
Concrete mix as per given proportion, is to be prepared by weight or volume as directed by the teacher.
PROCEDURE:
1) Clean the internal surface of the mould and place it on a smooth, horizontal, rigid and
non-absorbent surface such as a levelled metal plate.
2) Fill the mould in four layers each with approximately one quarter of height compacted with 25
strokes of tamping rod on each layer uniformly distributed.
3) Concrete shall be struck off level with a trowel at the top surface.
4) The mould should be removed from the concrete immediately by raising it slowly and carefully in
a vertical direction.
5) Measure the subsidence concrete or slump immediately from the highest point of specimen.
6) The test shall be carried out at a place free from vibration or shock, within a period of 2 minutes
after mixing.
75 NIT NAGALAND
Fig.II- Various types of slump.

PRECAUTIONS:
1) The test shall be carried out at a place free from vibrations within 2 minutes after mixing the
concrete if it is a field test and it can be done within 10 minutes after mixing if it is a laboratory
test.
2) If slump collapses or shears off laterally as shown in fig (ii) above, test may be repeated, and if
again similar results are obtained, the fact should be recorded. The slump is to be measured along
the longitudinal axis of the cone.
REPORT:
1) Result :
a) Water/cement ratio by weight/volume = …………
b) C.A/F.A.= …………….by wt/vol
c) Agg/cement =…………by wt/vol
d) Slump for a given proportions of concrete……….
2) Conclusion/discussion:
Compare your value with standard values if known. Give your comments on water/cement ratio:
fine and coarse aggregates percentages in the concrete. Factors influencing slump and cohesion of
concrete may be discussed here.
REFERENCES:
● Concrete Technology- by A.M. Neville J.J Brooks ELBS publication

● IS: 1199-1959: Methods of sampling and analysis of concrete.
● Laboratory manual for concrete technology, T.T.T.I, Chandigarh Publication.
***
76 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO: 21 Workability of Concrete-Compacting Factor Test

AIM: Test for workability (Compacting Factor test).
a) To define the term workability.
b) List different tests for determining workability
c) To explain compacting factor test and the principle on which it works.
d) To find out the compacting factor
e) To set up the experiment
f) To follow the procedural steps with precautions.
g) To fill up the observation table appropriately
h) To report as per instructions.
THEORY:
The workability of a freshly mixed concrete can be defined as the amount of useful internal work
necessary to produce full compaction. But in practice, various requirements such as mixability, stability,
transportability, placability, mobility, compactability and finishability etc. are collectively reffered to as
workability. IS-6461(Part VII)-1973 defines workability as that property of freshly mixed concrete or
mortar, which determines the ease of homogeneity with which it can be mixed, placed, compacted and
finished.
There is no really unique method, which can measure the workability of concrete in its totality. A number
of empirical tests are available for checking the uniformity of workability of freshly mixed concrete. The
empirical tests, which are widely used in finding the workability, are:
1) Compacting factor test

2) The slump test
3) The Vee-Bee consistency test
4) The flow test.
Each test measure one or a few aspects of workability. Compacting factor test is one of such available
test. The method uses an inverse approach; the degree of compaction achieved by a standard amount of
work by allowing the concrete to fall through a standard height is determined rather than measuring the
amount of work necessary to achieve full compaction. The method is specially suitable in the case of
relatively dry concrete mix which is insensitive to slump test. This test evaluates a factor known as
compacting factor.
77 NIT NAGALAND
The compacting factor for a fresh concrete is defined as the ratio of the density actually achieved in the
test to the density of same concrete fully compacted. For a container of constant volume, the compacting
factor, as in the test is defined as the ratio of the weight of partially compacted concrete in the cylinder at
bottom under standard height of fall to the weight of equal volume of compacted concrete.
Suggested ranges of workability of concrete for different conditions of placing as per IS: 456 (part
III)-1978 and IS: 1199-1959:
Sl NO Placing Condition Degree of Compacting factor

workability
Concreting of small sections with
1 Very low (stiff) 0.50-0.80
vibrations
Concreting of lightly reinforced sections
2 Low (stiff plastic) 0.80-0.85
with vibrations
Concreting of lightly reinforced sections
3 without vibrations or heavily reinforced Medium (plastic) 0.85-0.92
sections with vibrations
Concreting of heavily reinforced
4 High (flowing) More than 0.92
sections without vibrations
Compacting factor apparatus as per IS: 1199-1959 is shown in fig. below :
1) The apparatus consists of three parts i.e. upper hopper, lower hopper and a cylinder. These are
rigid construction to true shape and smooth finish from inside. These shall be made of cast brass
or bronze, but stout sheet of brass or steel may also be considered satisfactory provided the inside
surface of the joints are smooth and flush. 3 mm thick metal plate trapdoor is hinged tightly at the
lower ends of hopper having quick release catches. The following are the dimensions of
compacting factor apparatus used for the aggregate not exceeding 38 mm nominal maximum size.
Details Dimensions in mm
Upper hopper A:
Top internal diameter 254
Bottom internal diameter 127
Internal height 279
78 NIT NAGALAND
Lower hopper B:
Top internal diameter 229
Bottom internal diameter 127
Internal height 229
Cylinder C:
Internal diameter 152
Internal height 305
Distance between bottom of upper hopper and top of lower hopper 203
Distance between bottom of lower hopper and top of cylinder 203
1. Length of hand scoop 152
2. Stop watch
3. Tamping rod of diameter 16mm and length 610mm
4. Platform weighing machine 1 no.
Fig. Compacting Factor Apparatus.
MATERIAL USED: Cement, sand, aggregate and water.
PROCEDURE:
1) Take the sample with required proportions by weight or by volume with specified water-cement
ratio as directed by the teacher.
2) Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the whole apparatus internally.
79 NIT NAGALAND
3) Place the sample of concrete gently in the hopper with a hand scoop without any compaction. Fill
up the concrete in level with brim.
4) Open the trap door so that the concrete walls into the lower hopper.
5) If the concrete sticks to the sides of the hopper push it gentlywith the help of rod from top.
6) Open the trap door of the lower hopper and allow the concreteto fall into the cylinder.
7) Remove excess concrete remaining above the level of the top of the cylinder struck off by trowel.
8) Clean the cylinder from outside and weight it to the nearest 10gm.
9) Refill the cylinder from the same sample of concrete in layers approx. 50mm deep, every layer is
being heavily rammed by giving 25 blows with tamping rod or vibrated so as to obtain full
compaction.
10) Clean the cylinder from outside and weight it again.
11) Record all the observation in the observation table.
OBSERVATION TABLE:
Specimens
SL.NO. Particulars
1 2 3
a) Weight of cylinder (W1) kg
b) Weight of cylinder +concrete falling through a standard

height (W2) kg
c) Weight of concrete (W2-W1)= W3 kg
d) Weight of cylinder + fully compacted concrete (W4) kg
e) Weight of fully compacted concrete ( W4-W1) = W5 kg
f) Compacting factor = W3/W5
PRECAUTIONS:
1) Test should be performed immediately after the mixing is completed.

2) The convenient time for releasing the concrete from the upper hopper is 2 minutes after the
mixing is complete.
3) The concrete, which sticks of the sides of hopper, should be gently pushed with the help of
tamping rod from the topside.
4) Weighing should be done properly.
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REPORT:
1) Result:
The compacting factor or the degree of compaction of the concrete is ………………..
2) Conclusion/Discussion:
Based on the test result, categorize the concrete as one of low/medium/high workability. State the
type of work for which the concrete will be suitable. Discuss how the workability of concrete will
be improved.
REFERENCE:

● IS: 456-2000: Code of practice for plain and reinforced concrete.
● IS: 6461(Part VII)-1973.
● Laboratory manual for concrete technology,T.T.T.I, Chandigarh Publication.
● Concrete technology by M.L. Gambhir, Tata McGraw Hill Publication.
***
81 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO: 22 Workability of Concrete-Vee-Bee Test

AIM: Determination of consistency of concrete by Vee-Bee Consistometer method.
a) To define the term workability.
b) List different tests for determining workability
c) To explain Vee-Bee test and the principle on which it works.
d) To measure the Vee-Bee time
e) To set up the experiment
f) To follow the procedural steps with precautions.
g) To fill up the observation table appropriately
h) To report as per instructions.
THEORY:
Workability is that property of freshly mixed concrete which determines the homogeneity and the amount
of useful internal work necessary to produce full compaction. Sometimes the terms consistency and
plasticity are used to denote the workability of concrete mix. The consistency of the mix really means the
wetness of the mix, and a wetter mix need not have the desired properties.
There is no acceptable test, which will measure directly the workability. Numerous attempts have been
made to correlate workability with some easily determinable physical measurement, but none of these is
fully satisfactory although they may provide useful information within a range of variation in workability.
The numerous tests that are commonly used in finding the workability are:
1) Compacting factor test

2) The slump test
3) The Vee-Bee consistency test
4) The flow test.
Each test measures one or a few aspects of workability. Vee-Bee consistency test is one of such available
test. The test consists of remoulding a fresh concrete cone, in a cylindrical container mounted on a
vibrating table. The concrete cone, when subjected to vibration, start to occupy the cylindrical container
by the way of getting remoulded. The remoulding is assumed to be completed when the glass plate rider
is completely covered with concrete and all cavities in the surface of the concrete have disappeared. This
is judged virtually, and the difficulty of establishing the end point of the test may be a source of error.
Vee-Bee is a good laboratory test, particularly for very dry mixes. This is in contrast to the compacting
factor test where error may be introduced by the tendency of some dry mixes to sticks in the hoppers. The
82 NIT NAGALAND
Vee-Bee test also has the additional advantage that the treatment of concrete during the test is
comparatively closely related to the method of placing and compacting concrete in practice. Consistency
of concrete shall be express in VB-degrees, which are equal to the recorded time in seconds. It is also
related to the slump of a concrete as shown in fig.i. IS: 456-2000, clause 6 relates placing condition of
fresh concrete with workability and Vee-Bee time.
The Vee-Bee consistometer apparatus as per IS: 1199-1959 consist of:
1) A vibrator table resting upon elastic supports,

2) A metal pot
3) A sheet metal cone, open at both ends
4) A standard iron rod
The vibrator table is 380 mm long and 260 mm wide and is supported on rubber shock absorbers at a
height of about 305 mm above floor level. The table is mounted on a base which rest on three rubber feet
and is equipped with an electrically operated vibro meter mounted under it, operating on either 220 or 440
volts three phase, 50 cycles alternating current. A sheet metal cone open at both ends is placed in the
metal pot and the metal pot is fixed on to the vibrator table by means of two wing-nuts. The sheet metal
cone is 300 mm high and its bottom diameter 100 mm. A swivel arm holder is fixed to the base and into
this is telescoped another swivel arm with funnel and guide sleeve. The swivel arm can be readily
detached from the vibrator table. The graduated rod is fixed to the swivel arm and at the end of the
graduated arm a glass disc is screwed. The division of the scale on the records the slump of the concrete
cone in centimetres and the volume of the concrete after vibration of the cone in the pot. The standard
iron rod is 20 mm in diameter and 500 mm in length. The electrical equipment mounted on the base of the
consist meter consist of a fixed plug and connector for the electric supply cable, plug and socket contacts
for the detachable cable connected to the vibrometer and a control switch.
83 NIT NAGALAND
fig ii. Vee-Bee consistometer.
MATERIAL USED:
1) Cement
2) Sand
3) Coarse aggregate
4) Water
PROCEDURE:
1) Take the sample with the required proportions by weight or by volume with specified water
cement ratio as directed by the teacher.
2) Apply a thin layer of hydraulic oil or petroleum jelly to the whole cylindrical pot internally.
3) A slump test shall be performed in the metal cylindrical pot of the consistometer.
4) The disc attached to the swivel arm shall be removed and place just on the top of the slump cone
in the pot and before the cone is lifted up, the position of concrete cone shall be noted by adjusting
the disc attached to the swivel arm.
5) The cone shall be lifted up and the slump noted on the graduated rod by lowering the disc on top
of the concrete cone.
6) The electrical vibrator shall then be switched on and the concrete shall be allowed to spread out in
the pot.
7) The vibration shall then be continued until the whole a concrete surface uniformly adheres to the
glass disc and the time taken to for this to be attained shall be noted with a stopwatch.
8) The time is recorded in seconds.
PRECAUTIONS:
1) Test should be performed immediately after the mixing is completed.

2) Weighing should be done properly.
REPORT:
1) Result:
The Vee-Bee time of concrete is …………………
84 NIT NAGALAND
Based on the results, categorized the concrete as dry, very stiff, stiff, stiff plastic, plastic, flowing
workability. State the type of work for which the concrete will be suitable. Discuss how the
workability of concrete could be improved.
REFERENCES:

***
85 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO: 23 Determination of workability of concrete by Flow table
AIM: To determine the workability of concrete by Flow table
i) To define the term workability.

j) List different tests for determining workability
k) To explain about flow table test and the principle on which it works.
l) To determine the flow of concrete
m) To set up the experiment
n) To follow the procedural steps with precautions.
o) To fill up the observation table appropriately
p) To report as per instructions.
THEORY:
The flow table test or flow test is also known as the slump-flow test. It is a method used to determine the
consistency of fresh concrete. Flow table test is also used to identify transportable moisture limit of solid
bulk cargoes. It is used primarily for assessing concrete. For higher water cement ratio concrete will not
retain its shape after the removal of slump cone hence in such cases flow table is used for assessing the
workability of concrete.
If the consistency is not at the desired level, concrete will not gain the required strength and other
qualities once it has set. If concrete is too pasty, cavities may form within it. Rebar may become corroded,
and concrete will crack.
4. Flow table
5. Trowel
6. Pan
7. Tamping rod
8. Scale
MATERIALS REQUIRED: Concrete
PROCEDURE:
1. Before commencing the test, the table top and inside of the mould is to be wetted and cleaned of
all gritty material and the excess water is to be removed with a rubber squeezer.
86 NIT NAGALAND
2. The mould is to be firmly held on the centre of the table and filled with concrete in two layers,
each approximately one-half the volume of the mould and tampered with 25 strokes with a
tamping rod, in a uniform manner over the cross section of the mould.
3. After the top layer has been tampered, the surface of the concrete is to be struck off with a trowel
so that the mould is exactly filled.
4. The mould is then removed from the concrete by a steady upward pull.
5. The table is then raised and dropped from a height of 12.5 mm, 15 times in about 15 seconds.
6. The diameter of the spread concrete is the average of six symmetrically distributed calliper
measurements read to the nearest 5 mm.
OBSERVATION:
SL NO OBSERVATIONS SAMPLE-I
1 Spread dia in cm (D)
2 Percentage of Flow
𝐷−25
𝑥 100
25
RESULT:
CONCLUSION:
REPORT:
5. Results:
6. Discussions
87 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO: 24 Determination of cube/cylinder compressive strength of

1:1.5:3 concrete.
AIM: To determine the compressive strength of 1:1.5:3 concrete of (cylinder/cubes).
a) To explain compressive strength of concrete.
b) To explain what other qualities of concrete improve with compressive strength of concrete.
c) To prepare the specimen for test.
d) To use the machine for testing.
f) To report as per instructions.
THEORY:
Determination of compressive strength of concrete is very important because concrete is primarily meant
to withstand compressive stresses. Certain other properties like bending and split tensile strengths of
concrete are related to its compressive strength. For a given set of materials and proportions, the
compressive strength of concrete depends on the w/c ratio mostly. With increase in compressive strength,
its durability and bond strength also improves. Resistance to abrasion and volume stability improves with
the increased compressive strength. Test for compressive strength is therefore very important in quality
control of concrete. Cubes and cylinders are two types of compression test specimen. Cubes are usually of
100 mm or 150 mm sides and the cylinders are 150 mm diameter and 300 mm height (fig i & ii). But 150
mm size cube is normally used. Cylinder and cube strength of concrete are related to each other. Cylinder
strength is approximately equal to 0.8 times the cube strength for 150 mm sizes. The specimen are cast,
cured and tested as per prescribed standard code. Usually 7 days and 28 days cured specimens are tested.
At least three specimens shall be made for testing. Smaller size specimens indicate a slightly higher
strength; also a higher rate of loading indicates a higher strength than the actual strength. Though cube
strength tests are more common in India, cylinder strength is the actual strength of concrete.
A concrete mix is generally graded through designation, such as M20. Here M refers to the mix and the
number 20 to specified characteristic compressive strength of 150 mm cube at 28 days, expressed in
N/mm2. The characteristic strength is defined as the strength of the materials below which not more than
5 percent of the test results are expected to fall.
Due to an effect, known as creep of concrete (increased deformation under sustained load) the long-term
actual strength of concrete is approximately 0.85 times compression strength of concrete. Grades of
concrete lower than M20 should not use in reinforced concrete.
88 NIT NAGALAND
1) Cube mould of size 100 mm or 150 mm side as per IS:516-1959

2) Cylindrical mould of 150 mm dia. and 300 mm high as per IS:516-1959
Cylindrical mould of 100 mm dia. and 200 mm high as per IS: 516-1959
3) G.I tray and trowel for concrete mixing.
4) Tampering rod 16 mm dia. and 600 mm long with one end bullet pointed.
5) 100 tons capacity compression testing machine.
Fig I. Cubes mould Fig II. Cylinder mould
SPECIMEN/DATA SUPPLIED:
1. Cube mould of sides 150 mm and mix proportion of concrete 1:1.5:3 by volume/weight.
2. W/c ratio = 0.6 by weight (i.e. 30 litres water for 50 kg cement bag)
PROCEDURE:
1. Takes necessary quantities of ingredients and mix them uniformly to get the fresh concrete.
2. Fill the concrete into the mould in layers of 5 cm deep with symmetrical distribution.
3. If the compaction is done by hand, tamp the concrete with standard rod, strokes being uniformly
distributed over the cross-section of the mould. For 150 mm cube give 35 strokes per layer (for
100 mm cube give 25 strokes per layer). Tamp the sides of the mould to close the voids left by
tamping bars (cylinders are also cast in three layers with 30 strokes for each layer).
4. If the compaction is done by vibration then the mode and the quantum of vibration shall be as
nearly the same as those adopted in actual operation. (Give about 3 minutes vibration).
89 NIT NAGALAND
(If cylindrical specimens are to be cast then these are capped with a thick layer of neat cement
generally two or three hours after moulding. Cap shall be formed by glass or metal plate. The
cement is mixed to stiff paste for capping. Adhesion of paste with plate can be avoided with a thin
coat of oil.
1
5. Store the specimens in a place at a temperature 27ºC+2ºC for 24 hours 2
hour from time of
addition of water to dry ingredients. See that top surfaces of specimens do not get dry. Remove the
specimens from mould after 24 hours and keep them submerged in clean water until taken our just
prior to test. Water shall be renewed after every 7 days. Tests are performed at 7 and 28 days.
6. Tests at least three specimens immediately on removal from water, while still in wet condition but
after wiping out the water from the surfaces.
7. Note down the dimensions of specimens. Place the specimen on the compression testing machine
platen co-axially in such a manner that the vertical load shall be applied to opposite lateral sides of
a cubes i.e. not to top or bottom sides of an as-cast cube.
8. Apply load slowly without shock at the rate of 14 N/mm2/minute till the cube breaks. Load shall
be at the centre of specimen without any eccentricity of the applied load.
9. Calculate the compressive strength and compare the result with standard values.
Compressive strength of cubes as per IS: 456-2000
Grade of Compressive strength at 7 days Compressive strength at 28 days

concrete curing in N/ mm2 curing in N/ mm2
M15 10 15
M20 13.5 20
M25 17 25
M30 20 30
M35 23.5 35
M40 27 40
OBSERVATIONS:
Concrete mix details:
Date of casting Date of testing Age at testing

Type of specimen: Cube/Cylinder
Size of specimen
90 NIT NAGALAND
OBSERVATION TABLE:
Sl.No. Load at failure in KN Compressive strength in N/ mm2 Average

compressive
strength
=……MPa
PRECAUTIONS:
1. Load applied should be at the centre of specimens; even slight eccentricity can cause serious
deviations.
2. No mortar should escape during vibrations time of about 3 minutes
3. Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly on the sides and along the joints of the mould.
4. Test the specimens immediately after removing from water after wiping the surfaces of cubes.
REPORT:
1. Results:
a) Compressive strength of cube at ……days =………. N/ mm2
b) Compressive strength of cube at ……days =………. N/ mm2
2. Conclusion/Discussion:
Compare your result with standard values for the type of cement and grade of concrete. Give your
comments on the suitability of concrete for construction work at site. Explain deviations of test
results from expected values.
REFERENCES:

● Concrete technology by M.L. Gambhir, Tata McGraw Hill Publication.
***
91 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO: 25 Determination of Dimension of Bricks
AIM: To determine the dimension of bricks
1. To understand and verify the different shapes and sizes of bricks.

3. To prepare the test arrangement.
THEORY:
A brick is building material used to make walls, pavements and other elements in masonry construction.
Traditionally, the term brick referred to a unit composed of clay, but it is now used to denote any
rectangular units laid in mortar. A brick can be composed of clay-bearing soil, sand, and lime, or concrete
materials. However bricks have various size and shapes. As per IS code modular size of a brick is 19cm x
19cm x 9cm. This size varies in case of traditional bricks.

1. Steel Scale
1. Bricks at least 20 numbers
PROCEDURE:
1. Clean the surface of the bricks.

2. With the help of scale measure the length, width & thickness of the bricks.
3. Also measure the size of the frog.
4. Comply the recorded measurements with IS 1077:1992 and identify the type of brick
92 NIT NAGALAND
OBSERVATION:
SL OBSERVATIONS SAMPLE- SAMPLE-I SAMPLE-I SAMPLE- SAMPLE-

NO I I II IV V
1 Length of the brick
2 Width of the brick
3 Thickness of the brick
4 Size of the frog
5 Type of brick
RESULT:
PRECAUTIONS:
1. Carefully take the measurements to nearest mm.
CONCLUSION:
REPORT:
3. Results:
4. Discussions
***
93 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO: 26 Determination of Compressive Strength of Bricks
AIM: To determine the compressive strength of bricks
a. To understand about the compressive strength of bricks

THEORY:
The compressive strength of bricks is measure to determine the class of brick as per IS code. The brick is
first preconditioned as recommended and then it is tested in a compressive testing machine. For the
procedure IS 3495 (PART-I):1992 is followed and for specifications IS: 1077:1992.

● Trowel
● Iron Pan
MATERIALS REQUIRED:
1. Bricks
2. Cement
3. Sand
4. Water
PRECONDITIONING: Remove unevenness observed in the bed faces to provide two smooth and
parallel faces by grinding. Immerse in water at room temperature for 21 hours. Remove the specimen
and drain out any surplus moisture at room temperature. Fill the frog (where provided) and all voids
in the bed face flush with cement mortar (1 cement, clean coarse sand of grade 3 mm and down).
Store under the damp jute bags for 24 hours followed by immersion in clean water for 3 days.
Remove, and wipe out any traces of moisture.
PROCEDURE:
1. Place the specimen between two 3-ply wood sheet each 3mm thick and carefully place in the ram of
the compressive testing machine. Place the frog upward.
94 NIT NAGALAND
2. Apply axial load of 14 N/sq.mm. Uniformly & record the load at which the specimen fails.
OBSERVATION:
SL OBSERVATIONS SAMPLE SAMPLE-I SAMPLE-I SAMPLE- SAMPLE-

NO -I I II IV V
1 Load at which the

specimen failed (N)
2 Area of the specimen

(mm2)
3 Compressive strength
(N/mm2)
4 Mean Compressive
strength(N/mm2)
5 Class of brick
RESULT:
CONCLUSION:
REPORT:
3. Results:
4. Discussions
REFERENCE:
● IS 3495 (PART-I):1992 “METHODS OF TESTS OF BURNT CLAY BUILDING BRICKS
PART 1 DETERMINATION OF COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH”
● IS: 1077:1992 “COMMON BURNT CLAYBUILDING BRICKS – SPECIFICATION”
95 NIT NAGALAND
96 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO: 27 Determination of Water absorption of Bricks
AIM: To determine the water absorption of bricks
a. To understand about the water absorption of bricks

THEORY:
The water absorption of bricks is not related directly to the porosity owing to the nature of pores
themselves. Some of Pores may permit air to escape in absorption tests and allow free passage of water in
absorption tests, but other are completely seated and inaccessible to water under ordinary conditions. For
this reason it is seldom possible to fill more than about three quarters of pores by simple immersion in
cold water. For measuring total absorption the boiling method is adopted. More is the water absorption
capacity weaker is the brick and vice versa. Water absorption shall not be more than 20 percent by weight
up to class 12.5and 15percent by weight for higher classes. For the procedure IS 3495 (PART-II):1992 is
followed and for specifications IS: 1077:1992.

1. Thermostatically controlled Oven
2. Weigh Balance
MATERIALS REQUIRED: Bricks
PRECONDITIONING: Remove unevenness observed in the bed faces to provide two smooth and
parallel faces by grinding.
PROCEDURE:
1. Dry the specimen in a ventilated oven at a temperature of 105 °C to 115°C till it attains substantially
constant mass.
2. Cool the specimen to room temperature and obtain its weight ( ) specimen too warm to touch shall
not be used for this purpose.
97 NIT NAGALAND
3. Immerse completely dried specimen in clean water at a temperature of 27+2°C for 24 hours.
4. Remove the specimen and wipe out any traces of water with damp cloth and weigh the specimen after
it has been removed from water ( ).
OBSERVATION:

NO -I I II IV V
1 Oven dried weight (M1)
2 Moist weight (M2)
3 Water absorption
𝑀2−𝑀1
𝑀1
𝑥 100
4 Mean water absorption

%
5 Class of brick
RESULT:
CONCLUSION:
REPORT:
3. Results:
4. Discussions
REFERENCE:
● IS 3495 (PART-II):1992 “METHODS OF TESTS OF BURNT CLAY BUILDING BRICKS
PART II DETERMINATION OF WATER ABSORPTION”
● IS: 1077:1992 “COMMON BURNT CLAY BUILDING BRICKS – SPECIFICATION”
***
98 NIT NAGALAND
EXPERIMENT NO: 28 Determination of Efflorescence of Bricks
AIM: To determine the Efflorescence of bricks
a. To understand about the Efflorescence of bricks

THEORY:
Efflorescence is a crystalline, salty deposit that occurs on the surfaces of bricks, concrete and other
masonry products. It is white, sometimes a brilliant white or an off white colour. For efflorescence to
occur there must be water present to dissolve and transport the salts to the brick surface. This salt loaded
water reaches the surface of the brick, air evaporates the water, leaving the salt behind.
When the humidity is low, the water may evaporate before reaching the surface of the structure, leaving
the salt deposit beneath the surface, and unseen. When the humidity is high, any water evaporation will be
much slower and this allows more opportunity for efflorescence to form. For the procedure IS 3495
(PART-III):1992 is followed and for specifications IS: 1077:1992.
The results of efflorescence test shall be reported as ‘nil’, ‘slight’, ‘moderate’, ‘heavy’ or ‘serious’:
● Nil – When there is no noticeable deposit of efflorescence.
● Slight – When thin deposit of salts is covered over exposed area of the brick is less than 10 %
● Moderate – When there is a greater deposit than under ‘slight’ and covering up to 50 % of the
exposed area of the brick surface but unaccompanied by powdering or flaking of the surface.
● Heavy – When there is a heavy deposit of salts covering 50 percent or more of the exposed area of the
brick surface but unaccompanied by powdering or flaking of the surface.
● Serious – When there is a heavy deposit of salts accompanied by powdering and /or flaking of the
exposed surfaces.

99 NIT NAGALAND
1. Enamel Tray
2. Steel scale
MATERIALS:
1. Brick sample
2. Distilled Water
PROCEDURE:
1. Fill distilled water in the enamel tray and place the end of the bricks in the tray. Water shall be filled
such that bricks should be immersion in water up to 25 mm depth.
2. Place the whole arrangement in a warm well ventilated room until all the water in the dish is absorbed
by the specimens and the surplus water evaporates.
3. To avoid excessive evaporation from the dish, cover the dish containing the brick with suitable glass
cylinder.
4. When the water has been absorbed and bricks appear to be dry, place a similar quantity of water in the
dish and allow it to evaporate as before. Examine the bricks for efflorescence after the second
evaporation and report the results.
OBSERVATION:

NO -I I II IV V
1 Size of the bricks
2 Efflorescence results
RESULT:
CONCLUSION:
REPORT:
100 NIT NAGALAND

3. Results:
4. Discussions
REFERENCE:
● IS 3495 (PART-III):1992 “METHODS OF TESTS OF BURNT CLAY BUILDING BRICKS
PART III DETERMINATION OF EFFLORESCENCE”
● IS: 1077:1992 “COMMON BURNT CLAYBUILDING BRICKS – SPECIFICATION”
***
EXPERIMENT NO: 29 Determination of compressive strength of hardened concrete by
ultrasonic pulse velocity.
AIM: To determine of compressive strength of hardened concrete by ultrasonic pulse velocity.
a. To define the term Non destructive test (NDT)

b. To know about different methods of non destructive testing of concrete.
c. To set up the experiment.
d. To prepare the test arrangement.
e. To follow the procedural steps with precautions
f. To fill up the observation table correctly
g. To prepare a report as per instructions
THEORY:
Non destructive test is a method of testing existing concrete structures to assess the strength and
durability of concrete structure. In the non destructive method of testing, without loading the specimen to
failure (i.e. without destructing the concrete) we can measure strength of concrete. Now days this method
has become a part of quality control process. This method of testing also helps us to investigate crack
depth, micro cracks and deterioration of concrete.
Non destructive testing of concrete is a very simple method of testing but it requires skilled and
experienced persons having some special knowledge to interpret and analyze test results.
DIFFERENT METHODS OF NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING OF CONCRETE
101 NIT NAGALAND

Various non-destructive methods of testing concrete have been developed to analyze properties of
hardened concrete, which are given below.
● Ultrasonic pulse velocity: This test is done to assess the quality of concrete by ultrasonic pulse
velocity method as per IS: 13311 (Part 1) – 1992. The underlying principle of this test is –
The method consists of measuring the time of travel of an ultrasonic pulse passing through the
concrete being tested. Comparatively higher velocity is obtained when concrete quality is good in
terms of density, uniformity homogeneity etc.
The apparatus for ultrasonic pulse velocity measurement shall consist of the following:
1. Electrical pulse generator,

2. Transducer - one pair,
3. Amplifier,
4. Electronic timing device.
MATERIALS REQUIRED: Concrete Block
VERIFICATION OR CALIBRATION OF THE EQUIPMENT:
As per IS 13311 (PART-II), ultrasonic pulse velocity equipment should be checked against the calibrated
stone before commencement of a test to ensure reliable results.
SELECTION OF TEST AREA:
1. Concrete members to be tested shall be at least 100 mm thick and fixed within a structure.
2. Smaller specimens must be rigidly supported.
3. Avoid areas exhibiting honeycombing, scaling, or high porosity.
4. Do not compare test results if the form material against which the concrete was placed is not
similar.
5. Smooth surfaces generally exhibit higher rebound numbers than rough finishes. If possible, test
structural slabs from the underside to avoid finished surfaces.
6. Do not test frozen concrete.
7. Do not conduct tests directly over reinforcing bars with cover less than 20 mm.
8. Do not compare the results if the concrete mixes are different.
102 NIT NAGALAND

PRECONDITIONING: The test area shall be at least 150 mm in diameter. Heavily textured, soft, or
surfaces with loose mortar shall be ground flat with the abrasive stone. Smooth-formed or towelled
surfaces do not have to be ground prior to testing. Do not compare results from ground and ungrounded
surfaces.
PROCEDURE:
1. Hold the transducers firmly onto the surface of the concrete block, so that the ultra sonic pulse can be
transmitted and received.
2. Note the time taken and record the apparent velocity from the instrument.
3. Take at least six readings.
4. Compare the reading with the table 2 “Velocity Criterion for Concrete Quality Grading” of IS
13311 (Part 1) – 1992
OBSERVATION:
SL DESCRIPTIONS OBSERVATIONS
NO
1 Date of testing
2 Time of testing
3 Location of test area
4 Description of concrete mix (if Known)
5 Surface characteristics of the test area (rough/ smooth)
6 Type of exposure to the environment (mild/severe)
7 Apparent Velocity (three readings)
8 Average Apparent velocity
9 Quality of concrete as per IS code
RESULT:
CONCLUSION:
103 NIT NAGALAND

REPORT:
9. Results:
10. Discussions
REFERENCE:
I. IS 13311(Part I) : 1992 “NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING OF CONCRETE-METHODS OF TEST-
PART I ULTRASONIC PULSE VELOCITY”
***
EXPERIMENT NO: 30 Determination of compressive strength of hardened concrete by
rebound hammer.
AIM: To determine of compressive strength of hardened concrete by rebound hammer.
a. To define the term Non destructive test (NDT)

b. To know about different methods of non destructive testing of concrete.
c. To set up the experiment.
d. To prepare the test arrangement.
e. To follow the procedural steps with precautions
f. To fill up the observation table correctly
g. To prepare a report as per instructions
THEORY:
104 NIT NAGALAND

Non destructive test is a method of testing existing concrete structures to assess the strength and
durability of concrete structure. In the non destructive method of testing, without loading the specimen to
failure (i.e. without destructing the concrete) we can measure strength of concrete. Now days this method
has become a part of quality control process. This method of testing also helps us to investigate crack
depth, micro cracks and deterioration of concrete.
Non destructive testing of concrete is a very simple method of testing but it requires skilled and
experienced persons having some special knowledge to interpret and analyze test results.
DIFFERENT METHODS OF NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING OF CONCRETE

Various non-destructive methods of testing concrete have been developed to analyze properties of
hardened concrete, which are given below.
II. Rebound Hammer: Rebound hammer covers the determination of a rebound number of hardened
concrete using a spring-driven steel hammer. By calculating the rebound numbers one can
estimate the strength of the concrete. This test method is not intended as the basis for acceptance
or rejection of concrete because of the inherent uncertainty in the estimated strength. The
reference code for NDT using rebound hammer: IS 13311(Part 2) : 1992

1. Rebound Hammer – It consists of a spring-loaded steel hammer which on released strikes a steel
plunger in contact with the concrete surface. The spring-loaded hammer must travel with a consistent
and reproducible velocity. The rebound distance of the steel hammer from the steel plunger is
measured on a linear scale attached to the frame of the instrument.
2. Abrasive Stone – It is made of a medium-grain texture silicon carbide or equivalent material.
3. Test Anvil – It is cylinder approximately 150 mm in diameter and has a height of 150 m.m It is made
of tool steel with an impact area hardened to 66 ± 2 HRC as measured by test method ASTM E 18.
An instrument guide is provided to centre the rebound hammer over the impact area and keep the
instrument perpendicular to the surface.
MATERIALS REQUIRED: Concrete Block
VERIFICATION OR CALIBRATION OF THE EQUIPMENT:
As per IS 13311 (PART-II), rebound hammer should be checked against the testing anvil before
commencement of a test to ensure reliable results.
SELECTION OF TEST AREA:
105 NIT NAGALAND

1. Concrete members to be tested shall be at least 100 mm thick and fixed within a structure.
2. Smaller specimens must be rigidly supported.
3. Avoid areas exhibiting honeycombing, scaling, or high porosity.
4. Do not compare test results if the form material against which the concrete was placed is not similar.
5. Smooth surfaces generally exhibit higher rebound numbers than rough finishes. If possible, test
structural slabs from the underside to avoid finished surfaces.
6. Do not test frozen concrete.
7. Do not conduct tests directly over reinforcing bars with cover less than 20 mm.
8. Do not compare the results if the concrete mixes are different.
PRECONDITIONING: The test area shall be at least 150 mm in diameter. Heavily textured, soft, or
surfaces with loose mortar shall be ground flat with the abrasive stone. Smooth-formed or towelled
surfaces do not have to be ground prior to testing. Do not compare results from ground and ungrounded
surfaces.
PROCEDURE:
1. Hold the instrument firmly so that the plunger is perpendicular to the test surface.
2. Gradually push the instrument toward the test surface until the hammer impacts. After impact,
maintain pressure on the instrument and, if necessary, depress the button on the side of the instrument
to lock the plunger in its retracted position.
3. Read the rebound number on the scale to the nearest whole number and record the rebound number.
Take ten readings from each test area. No two impact tests shall be closer together than 25 mm.
4. Examine the impression made on the surface after impact, and if the impact crushes or breaks through
a near-surface air void, disregard the reading and take another reading.
OBSERVATION:
SL DESCRIPTIONS OBSERVATIONS
NO
1 Date of testing
2 Time of testing
3 Location of test area
106 NIT NAGALAND

4 Description of concrete mix (if Known)
5 Surface characteristics of the test area (rough/ smooth)
6 Type of exposure to the environment (mild/severe)
7 Average rebound number for test area.
8 Average compressive strength of the test area.
RESULT:
CONCLUSION:
REPORT:
3. Results:
4. Discussions
REFERENCE:
III. IS 13311(Part 2) : 1992 “NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING OF CONCRETE-METHODS OF
TEST- PART 2 REBOUND HAMMER”
***
EXPERIMENT NO: 30 Determination of tensile strength of steel reinforcement (Dia
8mm & 12 mm) using Universal Testing Machine (UTM)
AIM: To determine the tensile strength of steel reinforcement (8mm & 12 mm diameters using Universal
testing machine (UTM).
107 NIT NAGALAND

a) To obtain the stress- strain relation of mild steel using circular cross section specimen.
b) To determine the
I. Young’s modules (E),
II. Ultimate tensile stress (σu),
III. True fractural stress (σf),
IV. Nominal & true fracture strain
V. Percentage of elongation
b) To set up the experiment.
c) To prepare the test arrangement.
e) To fill up the observation table correctly
f) To prepare a report as per instructions
THEORY:
Various machine & structural components are subjected to tensile loading in numerical application. For
safe design of these components, their ultimate tensile strength and ductility are to be determined before
actual use. Tensile test can be one such measure using universal testing machine.
A material when subjected to a tensile load resists the applied load by developing internal resisting force.
This resistance come due to atomic bonding between the atoms of the material. The resisting force for
unit normal cross section area is known as stress.
The value of stress in material goes on increasing with an increase in applied tensile load, but it has a
certain maximum (finite) limit too. The minimum stress, at which a material fails, is called ultimate
tensile strength. The end of elastic limit is indicated by the yield point (load). This can be seen during
experiment. With increase in loading beyond elastic limit and finally reduces to its minimum value when
the specimen breaks.
● UNIVERSAL TESTING MACHINE: A universal testing machine is used to test the tensile stress and
compressive strength of materials. It is named after the fact that it can perform many standard tensile
and compression tests on materials, components, and structures.
● Linear Scale
● Vernier Calliper
108 NIT NAGALAND

● Extensometer.
SPECIEMEN REQUIRED: Mild Steel bar of 8mm & 12 mm diameter.
PROCEDURE:
1. Measure the dimension of the test specimen (Length & diameter).

2. Press power on button of the power pack.
3. Run the pump, keeping left control valve open and the right control valve close for some time.
4. Fit the specimen in the proper gripper of jaws for testing.
5. Hold the test specimen with the upper jaw (gripper is hydraulic so keep the pump on. Also keep the
left valve open and right valve closed)
6. Move the middle jaw upward as per requirement but keep the gripper away from the jots.
7. Open the software, set the name of the experiment and give the input data of the specimen.
8. Close the left hand valve & open the right hand valve slowly to set the load valve to zero. When it
becomes zero immediately close the right hand valve and clear the data.
9. Press start button in the software and open the right hand valve slowly. Wait for the specimen to
break.
10. Close the right hand valve and remove the broken parts of the specimen carefully.
11. Open the left hand valve.
12. Save the data to a specified location.
13. Measure the length of the specimen by joining the two broken pieces.
14. Also measure the diameter of the broken portion of the specimen.
OBSERVATION:
SL NO DESCRIPTIONS OBSERVATION
1 Original diameter of the specimen (do)
2 Gauge Length of the specimen (lo)
3 Maximum load (P max)
4 Load of fracture (P fracture)
5 Minimum diameter of the neck (dnmin)
109 NIT NAGALAND

6 П 𝑑𝑜
2
Original Area (A 0) = 4
7 Stiffness (k) =
∆𝑃
∆𝑑
8 Young’s Modules; E
9 𝑃𝑚𝑎𝑥
Ultimate Stress; σu = 𝐴𝑜
10 𝑃𝑓𝑟𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑒
True fracture stress σp = 𝐴𝑓𝑟𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑒
11 𝑙𝑓−𝑙𝑜
Nominal strain at fracture = 𝑙𝑜
12 𝑙𝑓−𝑙𝑜
Percentage of elongation = 𝑙𝑜
𝑥 100
RESULT:
CONCLUSION:
REPORT:
3. Results:
4. Discussions
5. Stress Strain Graph
110 NIT NAGALAND

I.S.CODAL PROCEDURES & SPECIFICATIONS

Exp AREA Name of the Experiment IS CODE IS CODE
No. (PROCEDURE) (SPECIFICATIONS)
1 Determination of Fineness of cement IS:4031 (PART-I): 1996
2 Determination of normal consistency of IS:4031 (PART-IV): 1988 IS: 1489 (PART-I) :

cement 1991 (For PPC)
3 Determination of initial & final setting IS:4031 (PART-V): 1988
time of cement
4 CE Determination of specific gravity of
cement
5 ME Determination of compressive strength of IS:4031 (PART-VI): 1988
NT cement IS: 1489 (PART-I) :
6 Verification of soundness of cement by IS:4031 (PART-III): 1988 1991 (For PPC)
Le-Chatelier Method
7 Verification of soundness of cement by IS:4031 (PART-III): 1988
Autoclave Method
8 Determination of tensile strength of ASTM C 190
cement
9 Determination of Gradation of Fine IS: 2386 (PART-I): 1963
Aggregate by Sieve Analysis
10 Determination of Gradation of Coarse IS: 2386 (PART-I): 1963
Aggregate by Sieve Analysis
11 Determination of Flakiness index IS: 2386 (PART-I): 1963
IS: 383: 2000
12 Determination of Elongation index IS: 2386 (PART-I): 1963 IS: 383: 1970
13 Determination of Specific gravity and IS: 2386 (PART-III): 1963

AG Water absorption of fine Aggregate
14 GR Determination of Specific gravity and IS: 2386 (PART-III): 1963
Water absorption of Coarse Aggregate
EG
15 Determination of Bulking Factor of sand IS: 2386 (PART-III): 1963
ATE
16 Determination of Fine sand, Clay & Silt
content of sand (Field Method)
17 Determination of Fine sand, Clay & Silt IS: 2386 (PART-II): 1963
content of sand
18 Determination of Crushing value for IS: 2386 (PART-IV): 1963
Coarse Aggregate
19 Determination of Impact value for Coarse IS: 2386 (PART-IV): 1963
Aggregate
111 NIT NAGALAND

Exp Name of the Experiment IS CODE IS CODE
No. AREA (PROCEDURE) (SPECIFICATIONS)
20 Determination of workability of concrete IS: 1199-1959 IS: 456:2000
by Slump test
21 Determination of workability of concrete IS: 1199-1959
CO by Compaction Factor test
22 NC Determination of workability of concrete
RE by Flow table
23 Determination of workability of concrete IS: 1199-1959
TE by Vee Bee test
24 Determination of Compressive strength of IS: 516:1959
Concrete cubes & cylinders IS: 456:2000
25 Determination of dimension of bricks IS:3495(PART I- IV):
1992
26 Determination of Compressive Strength of IS:3495(PART I- IV):
BRI Bricks 1992 IS: 1077:1992
27 CK Determination of Water absorption of IS:3495(PART I- IV):
S Bricks 1992
28 Determination of Efflorescence of Bricks IS:3495(PART I- IV):
1992
29 Determination of strength of hardened IS:13311
concrete by Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity. (PART-I):1992
30 NDT Determination of compressive strength of IS:13311
hardened concrete by Rebound Hammer. (PART-II):1993
31 Determination of tensile strength of
steel reinforcement (Dia: 8 mm &
UTM
12mm) using Universal Testing
Machine (UTM)
**Note:
● ASTM: American Society for Testing and Materials

● IS: Indian Standards
● NDT: Non Destructive Test
● UTM: Universal Testing Machine
112 NIT NAGALAND

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MATERIALS LABORATORY

2 Determination of normal consistency of cement 4

3 Determination of initial & final setting time of cement 7

4 Determination of specific gravity of cement 12

6 Verification of soundness of cement by Le-Chatelier Apparatus method 18

7 Verification of soundness of cement by Autoclave Method 22

8 Determination of tensile strength of cement 27

9 Determination of Gradation of Fine Aggregate by Sieve Analysis 31

10 Determination of Gradation of Coarse Aggregate by Sieve Analysis 36

11 Determination of Flakiness index of Coarse Aggregate 40

12 Determination of Elongation index of Coarse Aggregate 43

13 Determination of Specific gravity and Water absorption of fine Aggregate 47

17 Determination of Fine sand, Clay & Silt content of sand 60

18 Determination of Aggregate Crushing value 64

19 Determination of Aggregate Impact value 67

20 Determination of workability of concrete by Slump test 70

22 (a) Determination of workability of concrete by Flow table A-B

23 Determination of Compressive strength of Concrete cubes & cylinders 82

24 Determination of dimension of bricks 86

25 Determination of Compressive Strength of Bricks 88

27 Determination of Efflorescence of Bricks 92

28 Determination of strength of hardened concrete by Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity. 94

29 NDT Determination of compressive strength of hardened concrete by Rebound 97

● ASTM: American Society for Testing and Materials

EXPERIMENT NO.1: Determination of Fineness of Cement by Sieving

AIM: To determine the Fineness of Cement by Sieving

a) To explain the reaction of water with cements particles.

NECESSARY INSTRUMENTS/ EQUIPMENT USED:

1. Analytical balance – capable of reproducing results within 0.0002 gm with an accuracy of ±

1. Weigh accurately 100gm of cement and place it on a standard IS sieve 90 microns.

DESCRIPTION OF ITEMS SAMPLE SAMPLE SAMPLE

2. IS Sieve size (µ) 90 90 90

3. Sieving time (minutes) 15 15 15

4. Weight retained on sieve W1 (gm)

1) Draw sketch of tray and sieve ( a perspective view will be better)

EXPERIMENT NO. 2: Determination of Normal Consistency of Cement

AIM: To Determine the Normal Consistency for a Given Sample of Cement.

a) To determine the normal consistency of cement

NECESSARY INSTRUMENTS/ EQUIPMENTS USED:

PREPARATION OF CEMENT PASTE:

EXPERIMENTAL SET UP:

Sl. Type of Manufactured Weight Percentage Quantity Un- Remarks

1) Specimen calculations: Calculations for percentage of water added is to be given.

● IS: 269 – 1989 “Specification for 33 grade Ordinary Portland cement”

EXPERIMENT NO.3: Determination of Initial and Final Setting Time of Cement

AIM: To Determination of Initial and Final Setting Time of a Given Cement

a) To explain the theory of setting of cement

NECESSARY INSTRUMENTS/ EQUIPMENT USED:

MATERIAL USED: Cement (Ordinary Portland) and water

1. PREPARATION OF CEMENT PASTE (SAMPLE):

2. DETERMINATION OF INITIAL SETTING TIME:

3. DETERMINATION OF FINAL SETTING TIME:

● Weight of cement (W) gm = gm

Sl. No. Time in minutes Vicat’s apparatus reading

● Time for initial setting =

1) Needle should be cleaned every time before use.

1. Drawing the sketches: Sketches of Vicat’s apparatus, with needle C and F.

● IS: 269- 1989 “Specifications for 33 Grade Ordinary Portland Cement”

EXPERIMENT NO: 4 Determination of Specific Gravity of Cement

AIM: To determine the specific gravity of cement

a) To understand specific gravity of cement.

NECESSARY INSTRUMENTS & APPARATUS:

1. Prepare the test specimen. Clean the density bottle.