CIVE 202 Lab Manual 2022 - Copy
CIVE 202 Lab Manual 2022 - Copy
CIVE 202
CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS
LABORATORY MANUAL
Winter Session 2022
Instructor:
Dr. Sherif Kamel
Laboratory Instructors:
1 – Xinran Gao (xinran.gao@mail.mcgill.ca)
2 – Rami Ghanem (rami.ghanem@mail.mcgill.ca)
3 – Meysam Naghizadeh (meysam.naghizadeh@mail.mcgill.ca)
4 – Cang Xiong (cang.xiong@mail.mcgill.ca)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
REFERENCES............................................................................................................... 30
APPENDICES
Appendix A: Laboratory Session Schedule ..............................................................32
Appendix B: My Group ...............................................................................................33
Appendix C: Polymer & Metal Properties.................................................................34
Appendix D: Fresh Concrete Properties...................................................................36
Appendix E: Moisture Content of Fine Aggregate ...................................................37
Appendix F: Moisture Content of Coarse Aggregate ..............................................38
Appendix G: Hardened Concrete Properties............................................................39
Appendix H: Wood Properties ...................................................................................41
Appendix I: Fine Aggregate Sieve Analysis ..............................................................44
Appendix J: Specific Gravity and Absorption of Fine Aggregate............................46
Appendix K: Coarse Aggregate Sieve Analysis ........................................................47
Appendix L: Specific Gravity and Absorption of Coarse Aggregate ......................48
Appendix M: Dry Rodded Unit Weight of Coarse Aggregate ..................................50
Appendix N: Concrete Mix Design ............................................................................51
Appendix O: Microscopy Laboratory Assignment ...................................................54
LIST OF FIGURES
LIST OF TABLES
24
NOTATIONS
P = Load (N)
Ps = Service Load (N)
Є = Strain (mm/mm)
Єult = Ultimate strain (mm/mm)
Єy = Yield strain (mm/mm)
σ = Stress (MPa)
σult = Ultimate stress (MPa)
CHAPTER 1
1. Introduction
The objectives of the Construction Materials course laboratory exercises are as follows:
• Investigate and observe the physical behaviour and significant mechanical properties
of typical civil engineering materials such as metals, polymers, concrete, wood and
aggregates.
• Gain experience in the operation of various laboratory test equipment.
• Develop an appreciation of materials testing methods and procedures, and of the
accuracy required in test measurements.
• Gain experience in the preparation of technical reports.
• Develop the interactive skills required for working as a member of a team.
Six laboratory sessions constitute the experimental work for the course requirements. Each
laboratory session concentrates on one of the five aforementioned materials (Table 1).
2. Safety
Please note that a high standard of behaviour is expected of students in the laboratory. The
equipment used in these experiments could cause serious injury if instructions are not
carefully followed. A member of the Civil Engineering technical staff and/or the laboratory
instructor will supervise each experiment. No apparatus is to be used outside of the scheduled
laboratory hours. Eye protection will be mandatory for some experiments. The department will
provide safety glasses for use during these laboratory sessions.
3. What to Bring
For safety reasons, students are asked to bring only those items and materials required for
the experiment to the laboratory sessions This includes the Laboratory Manual, a notebook in
which to record results, pencils, and a calculator.
Students are strongly encouraged to use only one lab notebook per group, which can be used
to record all measurements and observations, and for making relevant notes during the lab
sessions. A simple notebook of about 20 pages should suffice. A camera may also be useful
for taking pictures of materials, specimens, testing equipment, etc.
During the concrete casting lab session, there is a risk of getting fresh concrete on shoes or
clothes. Be prepared; wear appropriate shoes and clothing.
4. Evaluation
4.1. Attendance
Attendance is mandatory. Students are expected to arrive promptly at the scheduled time.
Late arrivals will receive penalties against their participation mark (5 min. = 25%, 10 min. =
50%, 15 min. = 75%, 20 min. = 100%). After 20 minutes, the student will not be allowed to
participate and will need to make up the lab at a later date. No unexcused absence will be
permitted. Permission to miss a lab session for non-medical reasons must be obtained from
the professor or the lab instructor prior to the laboratory session.
If a group is unable to finish the required experimental work within the scheduled time frame
because of member tardiness, marks will be deducted accordingly from the incomplete
laboratory report.
Please note that if a student is absent from a laboratory session, he/she will be required to
complete the laboratory at another time. Participation marks are individual, not group, marks.
Each laboratory group will take approximately two hours to carry out their assigned Laboratory
Session at their scheduled time (Monday 8:35-10:25 or Monday 12:35-2:25).
Each student will be assigned to a laboratory group consisting of five to six students. A list of
the groups will be posted on MyCourses prior to the first laboratory session. Students with
conflicts for the laboratory sessions are required to report these conflicts to the Instructor for
resolution. It is recommended that you record your assigned group number and members in
the table provided in Appendix B.
A group report must be prepared for each of the laboratory sessions performed, for a total of
five lab reports: Metals & Polymers, Timber, Concrete, and Aggregates. Note that the concrete
laboratory is divided across two sessions but requires only one report. For the microscopy
session, each group will complete a lab exercise during the lab period.
Though only one report is required per group, it is strongly recommended that the division of
work involved in performing the exercise and preparing the report be continually modified to
provide each member with a balance of experience.
The reports should be short though formal in nature. They should contain sufficient detail
such that a competent person could replicate the exercise using only the report itself, along
with any referenced material, and obtain similar results.
The laboratory write-up for each lab must be prepared using a computer, on standard 8½ x 11
inch white paper with appropriate margins (i.e. 35mm left margin, 15mm right margin, and
20mm top and bottom margins) and page numbering. Using single line spacing with a single
space between paragraphs is recommended. Doubled sided printing is also encouraged in
order to reduce the number of pages. However, neatness and clarity is important and
expected. The text must be broken into appropriate sections using the headings described
below.
A. Title Page
Include the course title, number, the name of the department and university; the title of
the laboratory experiment; the group number, group members and student numbers; the
date the lab experiment was performed and, finally, the date of submission of the report.
B. Summary
Include a direct, straightforward presentation of the test and final test results along with
a summary of the main findings and conclusions in the summary. (150 words maximum)
C. Table of Contents
Present a detailed list of the report contents. This includes section and sub-section titles
and page numbers. The References and Appendices sections must also be included in the
Table of Contents.
Present a list of all figures and tables. Although separate, both lists may be presented on
the same page. Figures and tables must be numbered sequentially but independently
throughout the report (e.g. Table 1, Figure 1, Table 2, Figure 2 … and so on). Each should
have a short title, which briefly summarizes the information presented. Each title must be
unique (i.e. two tables can not have the same title).
E. Introduction
Briefly present a general statement concerning the tests or experiments performed and
the objectives to be achieved by performing them. (1/2 page maximum)
F. Materials
Describe in detail all materials and specimens. Include such information as the type,
source and nature of the materials and the type, dimensions and condition of specimens
(e.g. temperature, moisture content). Any other information which might affect the
behaviour of the materials under the given test conditions should also be included. Tabular
form is encouraged. (1/2 to 1 page)
G. Equipment
List all major pieces of equipment (not to include small tools, containers, scoops, shovels,
pans, etc.) used in the laboratory exercise. Include the type, manufacturer, model and
serial number (where possible) of all testing apparatus as well as the capacity and
accuracy of any measuring instrument. Tabular or point form is encouraged. (1/2 page
maximum)
H. Experimental Procedure
Describe, or cite, actual procedures used in the laboratory exercise. It is not necessary to
describe these procedures in detail if they are so described elsewhere. It is sufficient to
refer to the Laboratory Manual and/or relevant standard, though such references must be
properly cited. It is vital, however, that any departures from the cited procedures be fully
detailed in the report. (1/2 page maximum)
Use the past tense when describing a past event. For example, "the sample was placed in
the testing frame" (not: "the sample is placed in the testing frame"). Also, use third person
narrative when describing actions. For example, "the sample was tested" (not: "I tested
the sample").
I. Experimental Results
Include results of all experimental tests performed in the laboratory, along with samples
of any calculations required to obtain these results. For example, when including raw data
of load vs. extension, show sample calculations for determining the stresses, strains,
Young’s modulus, etc. This information should be presented in suitable tables and/or
graphs where applicable. Any qualitative observations made during the exercise should
also be included. (1 to 2 pages)
Include appropriate units everywhere necessary, including column headings in tables, axis
labels on graphs and values presented in the text. A numerical value with no unit
indicated is wrong! The only exception to this rule is a measurement that has no units
(e.g. strain).
J. Discussion
Discuss the significance and usefulness of the results, including comparisons with
anticipated values where possible (e.g. typical material strengths/grades are readily
available in many reference books). Include the probable accuracy of the results along
with any sources of error or limitations of the experiment itself or the theory on which it is
based. (1 to 2 pages)
K. Conclusions
Explain the core idea or concept that you learned from the exercise. Do not confuse the
conclusion with the results. A conclusion is a generality about the problem that can be
deduced from the test results. Be concise; what do the results tell you about the material
you tested? (1/2 page maximum)
L. References
List in an appropriate format any previously published material that is referred to in the
body of the report (see Appendix A for further details on referencing). This includes the
laboratory manual itself if referred to in the Experimental Procedure section.
M. Appendices
Provide any information that is relevant to the laboratory exercise but not essential to the
sequential development of the report. This may include such items as raw data, derivation
of equations, peripheral results, etc. The report itself should be complete and readable
without the appendices, although the appendices must be included should further details
be required. Any values, test results and/or notes taken in the laboratory should be
included here and should appear in their original form, not rewritten (photocopies are
acceptable). The scanned data sheets provided by the TAs (see Section 1.3.2.) should also
be included. Appendices must be divided by type or relevance, titled and lettered
sequentially (e.g. Appendix A, Appendix B, etc).
Due to the unavoidable misalignment between subject matter included in individual laboratory
experiments and its coverage in the lecture portion of the course, laboratory reports are to be
submitted in two parts:
The majority of each report, with the exception of the discussion of results and conclusions,
can be prepared immediately after performing the lab. This portion of the report is due one
week after performing the respective laboratory session. Note: the data sheets included in the
appendices must be used to record any measured values during the lab and are to be handed
in to the TA before leaving. The TA will then scan these sheets and forward an electronic
version to each group for inclusion in the lab report.
The due date for complete laboratory reports (original first part plus discussion of results and
conclusions) and the microscopy questionnaire is the Sunday after the last day of classes,
April 17th. Laboratory reports (both versions) are to be submitted no later than 4:00 pm on
their due date. All submissions must be made electronically via MyCourses (1 submission per
group). Late submission of reports will not be permitted. A mark of zero will be assigned to
any reports not received by the appropriate date and time.
WARNING: Groups should not wait until the due date to begin writing up all lab reports. They
are encouraged to submit their reports prior to the due date to avoid conflict with multiple
assignments and projects due at the same time. Typically, submissions should be made
immediately after the point at which the material covered in the lab session is discussed in
the lectures.
2. Notices
Laboratory groups, schedules, details, and notices will be posted on MyCourses for the CIVE
202 course. Students are responsible for regularly checking these schedules and notices
regarding the conduct of the laboratory.
CHAPTER 2
LABORATORY SESSION 1:
1. Introduction
Metals and polymers are commonly used for structural applications in the construction
industry because of their desirable properties; strength and practicality being two of
them. Both created from industrial processes, these materials are designed to meet
specific construction needs. For example, steel is a favoured material for building
construction because of its tensile properties. Fibre reinforced polymers are often
used as retrofitting materials for the same reason.
In this laboratory session, different types of metals, a polymer, and a composite (see
Table 3) will be examined for their behaviour under direct uniaxial tension using
standard ASTM coupons. The objectives of this investigation are:
Metals Polymers
Mild steel Lucite at room temperature
High strength steel Lucite subjected to heat (150ºC)
Aluminum Fibre-reinforced polymer
To evaluate behaviour under tensile loading, the following setup and testing procedure
will be used. Record all values in the data sheet provided in Appendix C.
1) Measure and record the width and thickness of the middle cross-section of the
specimen using a vernier calliper and/or micrometer.
2) Place and secure each coupon tightly in the jaws of the Senitech testing
machine.
3) Attach the extensometer to the specimen over the central portion of the
coupon.
4) Apply tensile load at selected strain rates and load increments specified by
ASTM standards. (Note: load-strain rate curves for each specimen are
generated by the testing machine)
5) Observe and note the behaviour of the specimen under loading and at failure.
6) Repeat the above steps for all specimens listed in Table 3 except for Lucite
tested at 150 ºC. For this specimen, omit Step 3 - extension data provided by
the crosshead movement will be used.
• Stress, σ, (MPa) versus strain, Є, (mm/mm) curve on a graph with all of the
important and significant regions of the curve labelled, using the appropriate
engineering terminology (refer to lecture notes). One graph per coupon.
• Ultimate tensile strength, σult (MPa),
• Ultimate strain, Єult (mm/mm),
• Modulus of elasticity, E (MPa),
• Modulus of resilience,
• Modulus of toughness,
• Sketches or photos illustrating the failure modes of each coupon.
• Analysis on the mechanical properties relative to the materials’ physical
properties.
CHAPTER 3
LABORATORY SESSION 2:
CONCRETE
1. Introduction
Thus, the objective of this laboratory exercise is to introduce the student to proper
concrete mixing procedures and to the evaluation of fresh concrete properties along
with the determination of hardened concrete properties. These properties are to be
compared for three mixtures of increasing w/c (0.40, 0.55 and 0.70).
To accomplish this, the laboratory exercise is broken into two laboratory sessions. The
first session involves concrete mixing and the evaluation of fresh concrete physical
properties; slump, air content and unit weight. The second session examines hardened
concrete mechanical properties under uniaxial compression and splitting tensile
loading.
Please note: after the test specimens have been prepared, make sure all floor areas
and equipment are cleaned. Place all excess concrete in the appropriate containers.
Properly store all excess material according to TA instructions.
Mixture 1 2 3
W/C 0.40 0.55 0.70
Water (kg) 6.75 6.75 6.75
3) Place all of the aggregates and cement in the mixer and run for 30 seconds.
Stop the mixer and add the water. Turn the mixer on and allow it to run for 3
minutes, followed by a 3-minute rest period. Turn the mixer back on for a final
2-minute mixing period.
4) After mixing is complete, shut the mixer off. Measure the slump, unit weight
and air content of the fresh concrete as per the instructions provided hereafter.
5) Cast 4 cylindrical specimens by filling the moulds in 3 equal height layers,
consolidating each layer by rodding it 25 times. After rodding the final layer, the
top surface of each specimen should be finished by striking off with the rod or
trowel to produce a flat surface. Note: the fresh concrete used in the slump
test can be reused for casting specimens but the concrete used in the air
content test must be discarded.
6) Mark all cylinder moulds so that the hardened concrete specimens can be
identified and numbered after removal from the moulds.
7) Repeat Steps 2 through 6 for Mixtures 2 (0.55 w/c) and 3 (0.70 w/c).
8) Place a lid on each mould and cover the moulds with a polyethylene sheet to
prevent water evaporation.
9) Note: This operation must be scheduled with the concrete mixing TA. After
at least 20 hours, remove the hardened concrete cylinders from the moulds.
10) Mark the concrete cylinders so that your group number and the respective w/c
can later be identified. Note that the ends of the cylinders will later be ground
so all markings must be place on the sides.
11) Place the cylinders in the curing bin containing lime saturated water for a curing
period of 14 days.
Please use the data sheet provided in Appendix D to record all values.
1) Dampen the slump cone and place it on a flat, moist, non-absorbent surface. A
special base plate will be made available in the lab.
2) Starting with Mixture 1, fill the slump cone in three equal layers, with each layer
being approximately 1/3 of the volume (not the height) of the cone.
3) Rod each layer with 25 strokes of the tamping rod uniformly distributed over
the cross section of the layer. Rod the bottom layer throughout its full depth.
Rod the second and the top layer throughout their depth so that the strokes
just penetrate into the underlying layer.
4) Strike off the surface of the concrete using the tamping rod. Remove any excess
concrete from the side of the cone and near the base.
5) Lift the slump cone slowly in a vertical direction such that complete removal
takes approximately 5 seconds. Measure the slump by determining the vertical
difference between the height of the inverted cone and the height of the
displaced concrete, measured with respect to the center of its top surface.
6) If the concrete topples sideways during cone removal, this indicates that the
materials were not uniformly distributed in the cone. The test should be redone.
7) Discard the concrete and clean all equipment used.
Please use the data sheet provided in Appendix D to record all values.
1) Dampen the inside surface of the measure. Weigh the empty measure.
2) Starting with Mixture 1, place the fresh concrete in the measure in layers of
approximately equal volume. Rod each layer with 25 strokes of the tamping rod
evenly distributed over the cross section of the measure. Rod the bottom layer
throughout its full depth. For the top two layers, the strokes should penetrate
about 1 inch into the underlying layer. After each layer is rodded, tap the sides
of the measure 10 to 15 times with the rubber mallet to close any voids left by
the tamping rod and to release any large air bubbles that may have been
trapped.
3) Strike off the top surface of the concrete and finish it as smooth and level as
possible with a flat plate or the tamping rod.
4) Wipe the flange of the bowl clean.
5) Clean all excess concrete from the exterior of the measure and weigh the
container filled with concrete.
6) Determine the unit weight as per the directions on the data sheet.
7) Place the top section of the meter onto the bowl and clamp it in place.
8) Insert the funnel into the open valve and add water until it comes out the
opposite valve.
9) Repeat step 8 for the opposite valve and stop adding water when the water
appears clear as it pours out of the valve.
10) Pump the air meters’ pump until the needle of the gage coincides with the
calibrated starting point (provided by lab TA).
11) Close both valves.
12) Release the air pressure by pressing on the flange beside the pump.
13) Determine the air content by reading the position of the gauge needle to the
nearest 0.1%.
14) Discard the concrete and clean all equipment used.
15) Repeat Steps 1 through 14 for Mixtures 2 and 3.
Please use the data sheet provided in Appendix E to record all values.
Please use the data sheet provided in Appendix F to record all values.
Strength tests on moist cured concrete must be performed while the specimen is in a
fully saturated condition. All specimens can be removed from the curing bin at the
beginning of the lab period but should be covered with damp burlap or plastic to
prevent excessive drying prior to testing.
Please use the data sheet provided in Appendix G to record all values.
1) Select 1 specimen from the 0.40 w/c group and measure its dimensions (length
and diameter).
2) Place the test specimen in the loading frame as indicated in Figure 2.1. Make
sure the specimen is accurately centered under the loading head.
3) Slowly load the specimen until failure.
4) Record the ultimate load attained.
5) Remove specimen and observe failure patterns before discarding.
6) Repeat Steps 1 through 5 for the 0.55 w/c and 0.70 w/c specimens.
Please use the data sheet provided in Appendix G to record all values.
1) Using the appropriate grinding machine, grind both end surfaces of all
cylindrical specimens until they are level and free of imperfections.
2) Number each specimen and measure its dimensions (length and diameter).
3) Place a specimen in the loading machine. Make sure the specimen is accurately
centered under the loading head.
4) Slowly load the specimen until failure.
5) Record the ultimate load attained.
6) Remove specimen and observe failure patterns before discarding.
7) Repeat Steps 3 - 6 for each of the remaining specimens.
• Moisture content of aggregates and calculations of true w/c for each mixture
• Plot of slump vs. true w/c
• Plot of unit weight vs. true w/c
• Plot of air content vs. true w/c
• Plot of splitting tensile strength vs. true w/c
• Plot of mean compressive strength vs. true w/c
• Sketch of failure modes and notes on any irregularities
• Analysis on the relationships between true w/c and fresh and hardened
concrete properties
CHAPTER 4
LABORATORY SESSION 3:
WOOD
1. Introduction
Timber is commonly used in low-rise (one to six story) commercial and residential
structures. Unlike the other materials seen in previous chapters, the mechanical
properties of wood vary relative to the orientation of its fibres, making it an anisotropic
material. Moreover, the presence of defects such as knots or splits, the orientation of
the grain of the wood (i.e. longitudinal, radial or tangential) and the moisture content
also affect the structural behaviour of this natural material. Therefore, when designing
a wood structure, one must carefully select and orient members to effectively resist
applied loads.
The objective of this laboratory session is to observe the behaviour and measure the
mechanical properties of lumber specimens of different types (softwood vs. hardwood)
and fibre orientation (parallel vs. perpendicular to the grain). These specimens will be
subjected to uniaxial compression loading, since timber is often used under these
conditions (e.g. studs and columns).
Please use the data sheet provided in Appendix H to record all values.
3) Place the specimen on the platen of the testing machine with its longitudinal
axis parallel to the direction of applied load.
4) Slowly load the specimen. Increase the load at a constant rate until failure.
5) Record the failure load.
6) Remove specimen and observe failure patterns before discarding.
7) Repeat Steps 2 through 6 for each of the remaining specimens.
Please use the data sheet provided in Appendix H to record all values.
CHAPTER 5
LABORATORY SESSION 4:
1. Introduction
Aggregates typically make up 70-80% of the volume of Portland cement concretes and
over 90% of asphalt concretes. Moreover, they are heavily used in the construction of
transportation infrastructure and building foundations. Thus, knowledge of their
properties (such as gradation, size, shape, pore characteristics, surface traits, and
strength) is necessary for the proper design of these materials and structures.
The primary objective of this laboratory exercise is to introduce the student to some
of the most important qualitative properties of aggregates and the standard test
procedures for determining these properties. Table 4 lists the tests to be performed
during the laboratory sessions. The secondary objective is to familiarize the student
with the application of the measured properties by designing a concrete mixture for a
given structural element.
Fine Coarse
Sieve Analysis – CSA A23.1 Sieve Analysis – CSA A23.1
Bulk Specific Gravity (Dry) - ASTM C 128 Bulk Specific Gravity (Dry) - ASTM C 127
Bulk Specific Gravity (SSD) - ASTM C 128 Bulk Specific Gravity (SSD) - ASTM C 127
Apparent Specific Gravity - ASTM C 128 Apparent Specific Gravity - ASTM C 127
Absorption - ASTM C 128 Absorption - ASTM C 127
Dry Rodded Unit Weight - ASTM C 29
To produce the gradation curve of a fine aggregate, the following testing procedure
will be used. Please use the data sheet provided in Appendix I to record all values.
1) Obtain approximately 500 g of fine aggregate from the stockpile. Weigh and
record the actual sample size used.
2) Obtain the relevant sieves (10 mm, 5 mm, 2.5 mm, 1.25 mm, 630 µm, 315 µm,
160 µm, 80 µm). Clean the sieves of lodged aggregate as much as possible but
be careful not to damage the screens. Weigh each of the sieves and the pan
individually to the nearest 0.1 g.
3) Nest the sieves in order of descending opening size, placing the pan on the
bottom.
4) Place the fine aggregate sample in the top sieve, place lid on top of sieve stack,
and agitate for 10 minutes using the mechanical sieve shaker.
5) Carefully remove the sieves one at a time and weigh each sieve with its retained
aggregate. Calculate the mass of material retained on each sieve. As a check,
compare the total of the retained masses against the original sample mass.
The difference should be less than 1.0 g.
6) Discard sample aggregates and clean all equipment used.
7) Calculate the percent retained (based on the total mass from Step 5, not the
original sample size), the cumulative percent retained, and the percent passing
values for each sieve.
8) Calculate the Fineness Modulus.
9) Plot the percent passing values on the Gradation Chart provided, drawing
straight lines between the points. Also plot the gradation limits (maximum and
minimum) from CSA A23.1, included in Figure 1.
Please use the data sheet provided in Appendix J to record all values.
7) Clean pycnometer and fill with water to calibration mark. Weigh pycnometer
filled with water.
8) Note: This operation must be scheduled with the aggregate TA. Once
sample has been allowed to fully dry, remove pan from oven and let cool until
room temperature is reached (approximately 1 hour). Weigh pan including
sample.
9) Remove sample, wipe pan clean of any remaining sample with a dry cloth.
Weigh empty pan.
10) Discard sample aggregates and clean all equipment used.
To produce the gradation curve of a coarse aggregate, the following testing procedure
will be used. Please use the data sheet provided in Appendix K to record all values.
1) Determine the sample size required. For coarse aggregate, this is dependent
upon the nominal maximum aggregate size, as indicated in Table 5.
(CAN/CSA-A23.2-09.)
2) Obtain at least double the required amount of coarse aggregate from the
stockpile. Using the quartering technique, reduce the quantity aggregate to the
required sample size. Record the sample size used.
3) Obtain the relevant sieves (28 mm, 20 mm, 14 mm, 10 mm, 5, mm and 2.5 mm).
Clean them of lodged aggregate as much as possible, being careful not to
damage the screens. Weigh each sieve and the pan to the nearest 0.5 g.
4) Insert the sieves into the mechanical sieve shaker in order of descending
opening size. Place the pan on the bottom. Important: Make sure to lock the
sieves in place.
5) Place the coarse aggregate sample on the top sieve, position cover in front of
sieve shaker, and agitate for 10 minutes.
6) Carefully remove the sieves one at a time and weigh each sieve with its retained
aggregate. Calculate the mass of material retained on each sieve. As a check,
compare the total of the retained masses against the original sample mass.
The difference should be less than 20 g.
7) Discard sample aggregates and clean all equipment used.
8) Calculate the percent retained (based on the total mass from Step 6, not the
original sample size), the cumulative percent retained and the percent passing
values for each sieve.
9) Plot the percent passing values on the Gradation Chart provided, drawing
straight lines between the points. Also plot the gradation limits (maximum and
minimum) from CSA A23.1, included in Figure 2.
10) Comment on whether the sample meets specifications.
Please use the data sheet provided in Appendix L to record all values.
Please use the data sheet provided in Appendix M to record all values.
1) Weigh the empty bucket to the nearest 0.1 kg. Note the volume of the bucket
being (either 0.50 or 1.00 ft3).
2) Fill the bucket one-third full and level the surface with your fingers.
3) Rod the layer with 25 evenly distributed strokes of the tamping rod. Do not
allow the rod to strike the bottom of the bucket.
4) Fill the bucket two-thirds full, level the surface, and rod as in Step 3. On each
stroke, the rod should penetrate the entire layer of aggregate and just into the
previous layer.
5) Fill the bucket to overflowing and rod as in Step 4. Level the surface of the
aggregate such that the material projecting beyond the top plane of the bucket
is approximately equivalent to the voids in the surface.
6) Weigh the bucket and aggregate.
7) Discard sample aggregates and clean all equipment used.
• Gradation Chart: graph of the percent passing values, drawing straight lines
between the points. Also plot the gradation limits (maximum and minimum) for
all suitable aggregate classes (one class per graph).
• Comment on whether the samples meet specifications in accordance with the
chosen classes.
• Bulk Specific Gravity (Dry), Bulk Specific Gravity (SSD), Apparent Specific
Gravity and Absorption of the fine and coarse aggregate as per the directions
on the data sheets in Appendices.
• Moisture Content of the fine and coarse aggregate as per the directions on the
data sheet in Appendices.
• Dry Rodded Unit Weight of the coarse aggregate as per the directions on the
data sheet in Appendices.
• Design a concrete mixture with the measured results as per the directions given
in Appendix N.
CHAPTER 6
LABORATORY SESSION 5:
MICROSCOPY
1. Introduction
Therefore, to predict and control the behaviour of a material, the primary objective of
this laboratory session is to evaluate the basic structure-property relationships and
the factors that influence them for various construction materials (steel, fibre
reinforced polymer, concrete and wood) by observing several samples under optical
microscopy.
2. Microscopic Analysis
With the help of the teaching assistant the student must observe and analyse the
microstructure of the following samples.
• Eutectoid steel
• Hyper-eutectoid steel
• Concrete
• Softwood
• Hardwood
The lab report for this session is in the form of a questionnaire available in Appendix
O. It is recommended that the assignment be completed during the laboratory session.
REFERENCES
ASTM Standard C 29, “Standard Test Method for Bulk Density (“Unit Weight”) and
Voids in Aggregate,” ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA .
ASTM Standard C 33, “Specification for Concrete Aggregates,” ASTM International,
West Conshohocken, PA .
ASTM Standard C 39, “Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of Cylindrical
ASTM Standard C 136, “Standard Test Method for Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse
PA.
ASTM Standard C 143, “Test Method for Slump of Hydraulic-Cement Concrete,” ASTM
ASTM Standard C 192, “Standard Practice for Making and Curing Concrete Test
Specimens in the Laboratory,” ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA.
ASTM Standard C 231, “Standard Test Method for Air Content of Freshly Mixed
ASTM Standard C 496, “Standard Test Method for Splitting Tensile Strength of Cylindrical
APPENDIX A
LABORATORY SESSIONS’ SCHEDULE
Date Groups 1 2 3 4 5
17-Jan Monday A
31-Jan Monday A
14-Feb Monday A
07-Mar Monday A
14-Mar 12:35 D
21-Mar Monday A
04-Apr Monday A
APPENDIX B
MY GROUP
Group Number
APPENDIX C
POLYMER & METAL PROPERTIES
Tensile Strength
Initial Final Ultimate Tensile Strain
Width Depth Area
Length Length Load Strength (mm/mm
(mm) (mm) (mm²)
(mm) (mm) (kN) (MPa) )
ε = l-L
[W] [D] [A] [L] [l] [P] σ = P/A
/L
Specimen ID
Specimen ID
Specimen ID
Specimen ID
Specimen ID
Specimen ID
APPENDIX D
FRESH CONCRETE PROPERTIES
0.40
0.50
0.60
0.40
0.50
0.60
APPENDIX E
MOISTURE CONTENT OF FINE CONCRETE AGGREGATE
APPENDIX F
MOISTURE CONTENT OF COARSE CONCRETE AGGREGATE
APPENDIX G
HARDENED CONCRETE PROPERTIES
0.40
0.50
0.60
APPENDIX H
WOOD PROPERTIES
Ultimate Compressive
Length Width Depth Area
Load Strength
(mm) (mm) (mm) (mm²)
(kN) (MPa)
[L] [W] [D] [A] [P] σ = P/A
Specimen Description
Specimen Description
Specimen Description
Specimen Description
Specimen Description
Specimen Description
Ultimate Compressive
Length Width Depth Area
Load Strength
(mm) (mm) (mm) (mm²)
(kN) (MPa)
[L] [W] [D] [A] [P] σ = P/A
Specimen Description
Specimen Description
Specimen Description
Specimen Description
Specimen Description
Specimen Description
Specimen Description
Ultimate Compressive
Length Width Depth Area
Load Strength
(mm) (mm) (mm) (mm²)
(kN) (MPa)
[L] [W] [D] [A] [P] σ = P/A
Specimen Description
Specimen Description
Specimen Description
Specimen Description
Specimen Description
Specimen Description
Specimen Description
APPENDIX I
FINE AGGREGATE SIEVE ANALYSIS
Aggregate ID
Cumulativ
Mass Mass Mass Percent Percent
e
Sieve Sieve Sieve + Retained Retained Passing
Percent
Size Retained
Retained
(g) (g) (g) (%) (%)
(%)
5.00 mm
2.50 mm
1.25 mm
630 μm
315 μm
160 μm
080 μm
Pan
Total
Difference: g
Fineness Modulus:
APPENDIX J
SPECIFIC GRAVITY AND ABSORPTION OF FINE AGGREGATE
APPENDIX K
COARSE AGGREGATE SIEVE ANALYSIS
Aggregate ID
Cumulativ
Mass Mass Mass Percent Percent
e
Sieve Sieve Sieve + Retained Retained Passing
Percent
Size Retained
Retained
(g) (g) (g) (%) (%)
(%)
28 mm
20 mm
14 mm
10 mm
5 mm
2.5 mm
Pan
Total
Difference: g
APPENDIX L
SPECIFIC GRAVITY AND ABSORPTION OF COARSE AGGREGATE
APPENDIX M
DRY RODDED UNIT WEIGHT OF COARSE AGGREGATE
APPENDIX N
CONCRETE MIX DESIGN
1
Kosmatka, Steven et al. (2002). Design and Control of Concrete Mixtures , EB101, 7th ed.,
Exposure Class:
Fineness Modulus:
Slump mm
Volume Computations:
F
=
Air [I] 100 m3
G
=
Water [J] 1 1000 m3
H
=
Cement [K] 3.15 1000 m3
E
=
Coarse Aggregate [L] D 1000 m3
APPENDIX O
MICROSCOPY LABORATORY ASSIGNMENT
Part 1 – General
1. Name and described the three observable levels of material structure. What
level of structure is being observed in this lab?
Part 2 – Metals
1. Illustrate the three different samples observed and indicate the components
which could be viewed with the optical microscope.
3. How does the grain size affect the mechanical properties of steel?
4. Explain two ways in which the mechanical properties of steel can be improved.
1. Illustrate and indicate what basic components of the fibre reinforced polymer
could be viewed using the optical microscope. Also indicate all types of flaws
observed.
3. Explain the need for examining fibre reinforced composites using optical
microscopy in the industry.
Part 4 – Concrete
1. Sketch and indicate what basic components of hydrated cement paste could
be viewed using the optical microscope.
2. What are the different types of voids present in a hydrated cement paste? What
are their characteristics? Discuss the significance of each on the properties of
concrete.
4. What types of crystals or voids could not be viewed using the optical
microscope?
Part 5 – Wood
1. Sketch and name the different features of both observed tree cross sections.
3. Why are latewood cells smaller then earlywood cells within one growth ring?
4. Why does hardwood typically have higher mechanical strength than softwood?