Farwestern University

Faculty of Engineering
University Central Campus
Bhimdattnagar, Kanchanpur

A Lab Report of
Concrete Technology and Masonry Structures
(CE 368)

SUBMITTED BY: SUBMITTED TO:

Niraj Singh Saud Asst. Prof. Jyoti Deupa
Symbol No.: 8063267 Subject Lecturer

Date:
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

S.N TITLE DATE REMARKS

TO DETERMINE THE SPECIFIC GRAVITY OF 5/25

1
FINE AGGREGATES USING PYCNOMETER

TO DETERMINE THE PARTICLE DISTRIBUTION 5/25

2
CURVE OF AGGREGATES USED IN CONCRETE

TO DETERMINE THE COMPRESSIVE 5/25

3
STRENGTH OF THE CONCRETE BY CUBE TEST

TO DETERMINE THE COMPRESSIVE 5/25

4
STRENGTH OF THE BRICK

TO DETERMINE THE WORKABILITY OF THE 5/25

5
CONCRETE BY SLUMP TEST
 EXPERIMENT NO– 1
OBJECTIVE: TO DETERMINE THE SPECIFIC GRAVITY OF FINE AGGREGATES
USING PYCNOMETER

APPARATUS REQUIRED:
a. Pycnometer
b. Weighing machine
c. Sand
d. Water

THEORY:
Specific gravity is the ratio of the density of a substance to the density of water at 4°C . Pycnometer is a
device commonly used for determining the specific gravity of soil solids. It consists of a glass jar with a
conical screw cap and a hole at the top, allowing water or air to escape during testing. The pycnometer
method is preferred due to its simplicity and accuracy.
weight of sand W 2−W 1
Specific gravity of sand (G) = =
weight of equal volume of water (W 4−W 1)−(W 3−W 2)
Where,
W1= weight of pycnometer
W2= weight of pycnometer with sand
W3= weight of pycnometer with sand and water
W4=weight of pycnometer with water only

PROCEDURE:
1. A clean and dry Pycnometer was taken and its weight was measured along with cap and washer .Let
it be W1.
2.About 200g to 400g of dry sand (passing 4.75 mm sieve) was taken and placed inside the Pycnometer
and its weight was measured along with cap and washer.Let it be W2.
3.Pycnometer with dry soil inside was filled with water to its full height and its cover was closed and
the Pycnometer was shaken well without allowing the spill out of water and sand from top to allow the
escape of air present in the voids of soil solids. The weight of Pycnometer containing dry sans and water
along with cap and washer was taken after wiping outside of pycnometer with clean dry cloth .Let its
weight be W3.
4. Then the Pycnometer was emptied and cleaned properly to remove traces of sand inside it and it was
filled with water till top of conical cap.
5. The outside of pycnometer was wiped with clean dry cloth and the weight of Pycnometer with water
was taken along with cap and water. Let its weight be W4.
OBSERVATION AND CALCULATIONS:

Weight of Pycnometer (W1) = 0.618 KG

Weight of Pycnometer+Sand (W2) = 1.106 KG
Weight of Pycnometer+Sand+Water (W3) = 1.786 KG
Weight of Pycnometer+Water (W4) = 1.488 KG
W 2−W 1
Specific gravity (G) =
( W 4−W 1 )−(W 3−W 2)

1.106−0.618
=
( 1.488−0.618 )−(1.786−1.106)
= 2.568

RESULTS:
THE SPECIFIC GRAVITY OF SAND IS FOUND TO BE 2.568 USING PYCNOMETER.

PRECAUTIONS:
1. Water must be free from any particles and hence drinking water must be used.
2. Pycnometer must be handled with care.
 EXPERIMENT NO– 2

OBJECTIVE: TO DETERMINE THE PARTICLE DISTRIBUTION CURVE OF

AGGREGATES USED IN CONCRETE

REQUIREMENTS:
1.Sieve set
2.Weighing Machine
3.Sand and Gravel sample
4. Sieve size of 20mm, 16mm, 12.5mm, 10mm, 4.75mm, pan for sand
5.Sieve size of 850 mm, 600 mm, 425 mm, 300 mm,75 mm, pan

THEORY:
The particle distribution curve (also known as the gradation curve) represents the percentage of
aggregate particles by weight that pass through various sieve sizes. This curve helps in evaluating
whether the aggregate mix is well-graded, which means it contains a good range of particle sizes that
contribute to a dense, stable, and durable concrete mix.This curve is obtained by sieve analysis. Sieve
analysis is a method used to separate and measure the aggregate particles based on their size. It involves
passing the aggregate through a series of standard sieves with different mesh sizes and weighing the
amount of aggregate retained on each sieve.
The curve should ideally fall smoothly from the largest to the smallest sieve, indicating a well-graded
aggregate. Deviations from a smooth curve may indicate over- or under-grading. The distribution curve
helps in assessing whether the aggregate meets the desired grading requirements for concrete. Properly
graded aggregates result in a concrete mix that is more economical, with improved workability and
strength characteristic.
By understanding and applying the principles of sieve analysis and particle size distribution, you can
ensure that the aggregates used in concrete mixes are appropriately graded, leading to high-quality and
durable concrete.

Total Weight of Sample

Cumulative Percentage Passing¿ ∗100
Total Weight of Aggregate Passing Through Sieve
PROCEDURE:
1. Sieving was performed by arranging the various sieves one over the other in the order of their
mesh openings-the largest aperture sieve being kept at the top and the smallest aperture sieve at the
bottom.
2. A pan was kept at the bottom and a cover was kept at the top of the whole assembly.
3. For coarse grained gravel, about 3kg of gravel passing through 20mm sieve was taken.
4. The sieve were arranged as 20mm, 16mm, 12.5mm, 10mm, 4.75mm and pan at bottom.
5. The gravel sample was put on the top sieve, and the whole assembly was shaken properly for
about 10 minutes. The portion of the gravel sample retained on each sieve and bottom pan was
weighed.
6. The percentage of gravel retained on each sieve was calculated on the basis of the total mass of
gravel sample taken and from these results percentage passing through each sieve was calculated.
7. For fine grained soil about 1kg of sand sample was taken and then sieves were arranged as 850µ,
600µ, 425µ, 300µ, 75µ and pan is placed at bottom. Then same procedure wass applied as in
coarse grained soil and percentage passing through each sieve was calculated.

OBSERVATION:
A.For Sand
Total weight of sand sample size = 1 kg

Sieve mass of %of retained Cummulative %

S. No. Size retained percentage passing
soil (kg) mass p (%) (%) N (%)

1 2mm 0 0 0 100
2 600 µ 0.12 12 12 88
3 425 µ 0.552 55.2 67.2 32.8
4 300 µ 0.066 6.6 73.8 26.2
5 150 µ 0.236 23.6 97.4 2.6
6 75 µ 0.006 0.6 98 2
7 pan 0.006 0.6 98.6 1.4
 120

100
Comulative percentage passing

80

60

40

20

0
0.1 1 10
sieve size

Particle Size Disribution curve for sand

B.For Gravel
Total weight of gravel sample size = 3kg

S. No. Sieve mass of %of retained Cummulative % passing

Size retained mass p (%) percentage (%) N (%)
(mm) soil (kg)

1 20 2.126 70.86 70.86 29.14

2 16 0.678 22.6 93.46 6.54
3 12.5 0.158 5.267 98.727 1.273
4 10 0.03 1 99.727 0.273
5 4.75 0 0 99.727 0.273
6 2.36 0 0 99.727 0.273
7 pan 0 0 99.727 0.273
2.992 562.2

562.2
Fineness modulus¿ 100

=5.622
 35

30
Comulative percentage passing

25

20

15

10

0
1 10 100
Sieve size

RESULT: Particle size distribution curve are drawn for both sand and gravel.
PRECAUTIONS:
 Sieve should be shaken properly so that through mixing is obtained.
 Weight should be taken properly.
 During weighing precautions should be taken so that no amount of sand or gravel is lost.
 EXPERIMENT NO:3
OBJECTIVE: TO DETERMINE THE COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF THE
CONCRETE BY CUBE TEST

REQUIREMENT:
1.Compression testing machine
2.Concrete Cubes
3.Cube moulds
4.Vibrating table or hand tamper
5.Curing tank
6.Measuring tools
7.Demoulding tools

THEORY:
Compressive strength is one of the key properties of concrete and is a measure of its ability to withstand
axial loads or compressive forces without failing. It is crucial in determining the load-bearing capacity
of concrete structures and is a primary indicator of concrete quality. The compressive strength of
concrete is usually measured in megapascals (MPa) or pounds per square inch (psi).
Compressive strength of concrete cube test provides an idea about all the characteristics of concrete. By
this single test one can judge that whether Concreting has been done properly or not. Compressive
strength of concrete depends on many factors such as water-cement ratio, cement strength, quality of
concrete material, quality control during production of concrete etc. Test for compressive strength is
carried out either on cube or cylinder.
Maximum load
Compressive strength=
Cross sectional area

PROCEDURE:
1. The cement and fine aggregate were mixed on a water tight none-absorbent platform until the
mixture was thoroughly blended and was of uniform color .
2. Then the coarse aggregate was added and mixed with cement and fine aggregate until the coarse
aggregate was uniformly distributed throughout the batch.
 3. Then water was added and mixed until the concrete appeared to be homogeneous and of the
desired consistency.
4. The moulds were cleaned and oil was applied.
5. The concrete was filled in the moulds in layers approximately 5cm thick.
6. Each layer were compacted with not less than 35strokes per layer using a tamping rod .
7. The top surface was levelled and smoothened with a trowel.
8. The test specimens were stored in moist air for 24 hours and after this period the specimens were
marked and removed from the moulds and kept submerged in clear fresh water until taken out
prior to test.
9. The water for curing was tested in every 7 days and the temperature of water was maintained at
27±2ºC.
10. The specimen was removed from water after specified curing time and wiped out excess water
from the surface.
11. The dimensions of the specimen were measured.
12. The bearing surface of the testing machine was cleaned.
13. The specimen was placed in the machine in such a manner that the load should be applied to the
opposite sides of the cube cast.
14. The specimen was aligned centrally on the base plate of the machine.
15. The movable portion was rotated gently by hand so that it touched the top surface of the
specimen.
16. The load was gradually increased without shock and continuously at the rate of 140 kg/cm
/minute till the specimen failed.
17. The maximum load was noted at the time of failure.

OBSERVATION AND CALCULATION:

Size of cube : 15cm x15cm x15cm
Area of the specimen =225 cm2 =22500mm2
Maximum load = 312090N
Maximumload
Compressive strength¿
Area
312090
¿
22500
=13.871 N/mm2
RESULTS:
The compressive strength of cube is found to be 13.87 N/mm2.This value is less than the specified
characteristics compressive strength at 28 days for M15 grade of concrete.

PRECAUTION:
1. High-quality cement, clean and appropriately graded aggregates, and clean water should be used.
2. The concrete should be mixed thoroughly to achieve a uniform consistency.
3. The cubes should be cured in controlled environment with consistent moisture and temperature.
4. The cubes should be handled carefully to prevent chipping or damage to the surfaces. Any
damage can lead to inaccurate results.
5. The compression testing machine should be properly calibrated and in good working condition
before testing. Regular calibration checks are crucial for accurate measurements.
6. The surfaces of the cubes should be clean and level before placing them in the testing machine.
Any irregularities can lead to uneven loading and affect test accuracy.
7. The load should be applied centrally and evenly on the cube’s surface.
8. Safety protocols should be followed to prevent injuries from equipment or during the handling of
heavy loads.
 EXPERIMENT NO:4
OBJECTIVE: TO DETERMINE THE COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF THE BRICK

REQUIREMENT:
1.Brick samples
2.Compression testing machine
3.Measuring tape

THEORY:
Compressive Strength is defined as the maximum compressive load a brick can withstand before failure.
It is measured in terms of stress (force per unit area), typically expressed in megapascals (MPa) or
pounds per square inch (psi). Compressive strength is a key property of bricks, reflecting their ability to
withstand compressive loads without failure. This property is critical for ensuring that bricks can support
structural loads effectively in construction. The compressive strength of bricks determines their
suitability for various structural applications, including walls, pavements, and other load-bearing
structures. Bricks with higher compressive strength can support greater loads and are thus more suitable
for use in load-bearing applications. Testing compressive strength helps in quality control during
manufacturing and in evaluating the performance of bricks in construction.

Maximum load
Compressive strength=
Cross sectional area

PROCEDURE:
1.Bricks having smooth cross section were choosen for the test.
2.Dimensions of the bricks were accurately measured .
3. The brick was placed in the compression testing machine and alined in such a wat that the load is
applied uniformly across its surface.
4.The contact surface of the brick and the machine was kept clean.
5. The load was applied gradually and continuously to the faces of the brick that are parallel to the
length and width.
6.The maximum load at which brick failed was noted.

OBSERVATION AND CALCULATION:

The compressive strength of the 3 bricks is calculated in following table:
SN. Dimension Area(mm2) Maximum load(N) Strength(N/mm2)
1 230mm×107mm×60mm 24610 330120 13.41
2 230mm×110mm×60mm 25300 114630 4.531
3 230mm×110mm×65mm 25300 190320 7.52
Avg=8.487

Fig:Brick 1
Fig:Brick 2
Fig:Brick 3
RESULTS:The average compressive strength of brick sample is found to be 8.487 N/mm2.

PRECAUTION:
1. Bricks should be tested at a consistent moisture level. Testing wet or excessively dry bricks can
lead to inaccurate results.
2. The load should be applied uniformly and perpendicularly to the brick's surface to avoid
misleading results.
3. The contact surfaces of the brick and the testing machine should be cleaned and leveled to ensure
accurate load application.

EXPERIMENT NO:5
OBJECTIVE: TO DETERMINE THE WORKABILITY OF THE CONCRETE BY SLUMP
TEST

REQUIREMENT:
1.Slump cone
2.Base plate
3.Tamping rod
4.Measuring tape
5.Concrete sample
6.Water

THEORY:
The slump test is a simple and effective method used to measure the workability or consistency of fresh
concrete. Workability refers to the ease with which concrete can be mixed, placed, and finished. It is
influenced by factors such as the mix proportions, type and amount of cement, water content, aggregate
properties, and the use of admixtures.. The slump test helps determine whether the concrete mix is
suitable for its intended application and whether it has the desired consistency for proper handling and
compaction.
Adequate workability is crucial for ensuring that concrete can be placed and compacted effectively,
especially in complex formwork or around reinforcement. Concrete with insufficient workability may be
difficult to handle and could lead to poor compaction, resulting in a lower quality finish and potential
structural weaknesses.

Slump Values:

 Low Slump (0-25 mm): Indicates stiff or low-workability concrete. It is often used for structural
elements where less flowability is required.
 Medium Slump (25-75 mm): Indicates a moderate level of workability, suitable for most
construction applications.
 High Slump (75-150 mm): Indicates high workability, suitable for complex forms or areas with
congested reinforcement. High slump concrete is easier to place and finish.
 Excessive Slump (>150 mm): May indicate too much water in the mix, leading to potential
segregation and reduced strength. It may also affect the stability of the concrete.

PROCEDURE:
1. Preparation

 Prepared the Concrete Sample: The concrete was mixed to a uniform consistency and was free of
large aggregates or lumps.
 Placed the Base Plate: The base plate was positioned on a firm, level surface to conduct the test.

2. Filling the Slump Cone

1. Positioned the Cone: The slump cone was placed on the base plate. It was ensured that the cone
was firmly held in place, either manually or using a suitable clamp.
2. Filled the Cone – First Layer: The cone was filled with concrete up to one-third of its height (100
mm). The concrete was compacted by tamping with the rod using 25 uniform strokes distributed
over the surface of this layer.
3. Filled the Cone – Second Layer: Another one-third of the cone’s height (100 mm) of concrete
was added. This layer was also compacted with 25 strokes, ensuring that the rod penetrated into
the previous layer.
4. Filled the Cone – Top Layer: The final third of the cone’s height (100 mm) of concrete was
added. This top layer was compacted with 25 strokes, ensuring thorough compaction and
penetration into the previous layer.
5. Struck Off Excess Concrete: The rod was used to strike off any excess concrete from the top of
the cone, ensuring a flat, level surface.

3. Removing the Cone

1. Removed the Cone: The slump cone was carefully lifted vertically upwards. The concrete was
not disturbed during this process to avoid affecting the results.
2. Measured the Slump: The distance between the top of the cone and the highest point of the
slumped concrete was measured. This distance, known as the "slump," was recorded in
millimeters (mm).

RESULT : The slump value of the concrete is found to be 160mm. It may indicate too much water in
the mix, leading to potential segregation and reduced strength.

PRECAUTION:
1. The concrete will be thoroughly mixed before sampling to ensure uniformity.
2. The slump cone, base plate, and tamping rod will be thoroughly cleaned before and after each
test. Any residual concrete or debris that could affect the accuracy of the test will be removed.
3. The slump cone will be placed on a firm, level surface to avoid any tilt or unevenness that could
affect the test results.
4. Inadequate compaction will be avoided to ensure accurate slump readings.
5. The cone will be lifted slowly and carefully in a vertical direction to prevent disturbing the
concrete. Any sudden movements that could alter the slump measurement will be avoided.
6. The slump will be measured immediately after removing the cone to avoid changes in
consistency due to settling or drying.