Construction Materials and Testing (CMT 223)

Unit 4 Module: Specific Gravity, Water Absorption, Abrasion, Density and

Uniformity of Aggregates

Objectives:

1. Importance of the Properties of Aggregates such as Specific Gravity, Water Absorption, Abrasion,
Density and Uniformity.
2. Familiarization of the Laboratory Testing Procedure of Aggregates in terms of Specific Gravity, Water
Absorption, Abrasion Resistance, Density and Uniformity.

Content:

A. Importance of the Properties of Aggregates such as Specific Gravity, Water Absorption, Abrasion,
Resistance Density and Uniformity

1. Definition of Aggregates

Aggregates are inert materials derived from igneous, sedimentary; and metamorphic rocks or
manufactured from clays, shales, slates and slags. The aggregates used in concreting are sand, natural
gravel, gravel crushed stone, cinder and crushed furnace slag. Natural sands and gravels are generally
available and therefore constitute the major source of aggregates. Crushed stone is the next most widely
used class of concrete aggregate.

Aggregates are often washed to remove impurities which may retard cement hydration or prove
otherwise deleterious, particularly for natural occurring sands and gravels. All aggregates are screened to
ensure proper gradation of sizes.

Aggregates are granular mineral particles that are widely used for highway bases, subbases and
backfill. These are also used in combination with cementing material to form concrete for structural
construction, wearing surfaces and drainage structures.

Sources of aggregates are natural deposits of sand and gravel, pulverized concrete and asphalt
pavements, crushed stones and blast furnace slag.

Aggregates which are intended for either bituminous or Portland cement concrete pavement
should be of good quality and in accordance with the requirements of AASHTO for Dense -Graded
Bituminous road and Plant-Mix Surface Coarse (Item – 703 of the DPWH) which generally consists of hard
durable particles or fragments of crushed stones, crushed slag; or crushed or natural gravels.

2. General Classifications of Aggregates

The general classifications of aggregates are fine aggregates and coarse aggregates.

a. Fine aggregates are commonly known as sands and are composes of particles smaller than inch
nominal. Sand or fine aggregate is generally the product of natural disintegration of silica-bearing or

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 calcium bearing rock. Almost all the sand should pass through a No. 4 sieve and be predominantly
retained by a No. 200 (14 – micron) sieve. These are sometimes manufactured from larger pieces of
aggregate by crushing, grinding and rolling.

b. Coarse aggregates are composed of particles larger than the clear opening of a No. 4 sieve (0. 185
inches), comes from natural grave deposits and also known as natural gravel which are formed by
water, wind or glacial action. These are also manufactured by crushing rock, stone, boulders and large
cobblestones and also known as crushed gravel. Four common kinds of coarse aggregate minerals are:
(a) limestone or calcium bearing material, (b) basalt, granite and related igneous rock, (c) sandstones
and quartzite, and (d) rock, such as opal and chert, composed mainly of amorphous silicon dioxide.

Aggregates are bond together into a conglomerated mass by Portland-cement paste the mixed
Portland cement and water, form concrete mortar or plaster. Aggregates make up about 75% of total
mass of concrete. The physical, mechanical and chemical properties of the aggregate influence the
properties of resulting concrete. The size, shape, and grading of the particles the amount of water
required. Surface texture influences the bond between aggregate and paste. The elastic properties of the
aggregate influence the elastic properties of the concrete and the amount of re sistance to shrinkage of
the paste. Reactions at the interface of the cement matrix and the aggregate may improve bonding
between the two and consequently the quality of concrete. Certain reactions may be deleterious.
However, for instance, the reaction between certain silicon constituents present in some aggregate and
alkalies in cements may cause abnormal expansion and cracking of the concrete.

2. Characteristics of Aggregates

a. Specific Gravity of Aggregates

Specific gravity determines the weight and strength of aggregates. The used of coarse aggregates
specifically for the construction of dams, weirs, retaining walls barrages, docks and harbors should be
durable and of a heavier variety. In case of dams and roof coverings, lighter varieties of coarse aggregates
are preferred. The specific gravity of good coarse aggregates or stones should be between 2.5 and 3.0.
Heavier coarse aggregates or stones are compact, less porous and are good for hydraulic structures.

b. Water Absorption of Aggregates

Water absorption of coarse aggregates or stones is directly proportional to the porosity. If a stone
is more porous then it will absorb more water and cause more damage to stone s. Porosity of building
stones depend upon the mineral constituents and structural formation of the parent rock. If stones used
in building construction are porous then rain water carrying some acidic gases forming light acids can
easily enter into the pore spaces, expand, and cause damage to the stones. Therefore buildin g stones
should not be porous. The value of water absorption of a good quality coarse aggregates or stones shall
not be more than 0.60 per unit weight. Excess iron oxide or carbonate in stones develops rust in the
presence of moisture and in cold places the freezing of water in pores takes place and it results into the
disintegration of the stone.

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c. Abrasion Resistance of Aggregates

Abrasion resistance is one of the most important attributes of aggregates and factor to consider
in resisting wearing, crushing, degradation and disintegration. The wearing resistance of aggregates have
a strong relationships with strength properties and modulus elasticity of concrete which increases the
abrasion resistance by continuous rubbing and scratching to contact surface; and the application of the
abrasion test is to determine the hardness property of aggregates.

d. Density of Aggregates

Bulk density or unit weight of aggregates is the ratio of mass or weight of aggregates to a specified
unit volume. The density of aggregates is required to determine the weight and volume relationships and
the measurement of the space occupied by the aggregates in proportioning mixture.

e. Uniformity, Gradation or Particle Size Distribution of Aggregates

The important characteristic of aggregates is their gradation or also known as particle size
distribution. It plays an important part in terms of workability, segregation and mobility of concrete.
Uniformity of sizes of aggregates requires less cement paste that will reduce the possibl e bleeding,
creeping and shrinking of concrete during the hardening process. Well graded aggregates produces strong
bonding between the cement paste and aggregates; and determines also the amount required of paste in
the concrete mixture.

B. Familiarization of the Laboratory Testing Procedure of Aggregates in terms of Specific Gravity,

Water Absorption, Abrasion Resistance, Density and Uniformity

1. Test for Specific Gravity of Coarse Aggregates (ASTM Designation C 127 – 07)

Scope: Specific gravity test method covers the procedure to determine the specific gravity of coarse
aggregates. Specific gravity is defined as the ratio of the weight aggregates to a specified volume of water.
The specific gravity of good coarse aggregates or stones should be between 2.5 and 3.0 and the quality of
aggregates is measured by means of its specific gravity. The objective of the test is to determine the
specific gravity of coarse aggregates. The test is not intended for lightweight aggregates.

Apparatus/Instruments and Equipment: Specific Gravity testing Machine, Wire Mesh Bucket, Weighing
Machine, Metal Cylinder, Scoop, and Tray

Procedure:
a. Weigh the test sample of coarse aggregates, placed it in wire mesh bucket and wash it with water to
remove dirt and impurities.
b. Dry the test sample of coarse aggregates of constant weight in an oven with temperature of 105 oC at
room temperature for 1 to 3 hours.
c. After the test sample of coarse aggregates cooled at temperature that is comfortable to handle;
immediately immerse the test sample in water at room temperature within 24 hours.
d. The test sample with the wire mesh bucket are weighed while suspended in water at a room
temperature.

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e. The test sample of coarse aggregates with wire mesh bucket are removed and dried with absorbent
cloth and weighed.
f. The test sample of aggregates is placed in a tray and dried in an oven with temperature of 110 ± 5℃
at room temperature for 24 hours.
g. The dried and cooled test sample of coarse aggregates is placed in a metal cylinder and weigh.

Data Sheet:

Sample Test Sample Description of Coarse Weight of

Number Aggregates Sample
Weight of Saturated Coarse Aggregates and
1
Bucket (W1)
2 Weight the Wetted Bucket (W2)
Weight of Saturated Coarse Aggregates in
3
Air (W3 )
Weight of Oven Dried Coarse Aggregates in
4
Air (W4 )
Apparent Specific Gravity (ASG)
Bulk Specific Gravity (BSG)

Computation:

a. Apparent Specific Gravity (ASG):

W
ASG =
[W − ( W − W )]

b. Bulk Specific Gravity (BSG):

W
BSG =
[W − (W − W )]

2. Test For Water Absorption of Aggregates (ASTM Designation C 127 – 07)

Scope: Water absorption test method covers the procedure to determine the moisture or water absorbing
capacity of coarse aggregates and to measure the strength or quality of coarse aggregates. If the coarse
aggregates used are porous they are considered unsuitable. Coarse aggregates to be used must be non-
porous and compact with solidity. The objective of the test is to determine the moisture or water content
of coarse aggregates. The test is not intended for lightweight aggregates.

Apparatus/Instruments and Equipment: Water bath, Wire Mesh Bucket, Weighing Machine, Scoop, and
Tray

Procedure:
a. Weigh the test sample of coarse aggregates, placed in in wire mesh bucket and wash it with water to
remove dirt and impurities.
b. Dry the test sample of coarse aggregates of constant weight in an oven with temperature of 110 ±
5℃ at room temperature for 1 to 3 hours.

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c. After the test sample of coarse aggregates cooled at temperature that is comfortable to handle;
immediately immerse the test sample in water at room temperature within 24 hours.
d. The test sample with the wire mesh bucket are weighed while suspended in water at a room
temperature.
e. The test sample of coarse aggregates with wire mesh bucket are removed and surface dried with
absorbent cloth and weigh.
f. The test sample of aggregates is placed in a tray and dried in an oven with temperature of 105 oC at
room temperature for 24 hours.
g. The dried and cooled test sample of coarse aggregates is placed in a metal cylinder and weigh.

Data Sheet:
Sample Test Sample Description of Coarse Weight of
Number Aggregates Sample
Weight of Saturated Coarse Aggregates in
1
Air (W1 )
Weight of Oven Dried Coarse Aggregates in
2
Air (W2 )
Moisture or Water Content (%)

Computation:
W −W
Moisture Content = x (100%)
W

3. Test for Abrasion Resistance of Aggregates (ASTM C 131 – 03)

Scope: The abrasion resistance test method covers the procedure for testing sizes of coarse aggregates
smaller than 37. 5 mm or 1 inch for resistance to degradation using the Los Angeles (LA) Abrasion
Machine. This test is used as an indicator of the relative quality or competence of various sources of
aggregates with similar mineral compositions. The objective of the test is determine the measurement of
the resistance of coarse aggregates to degradation causes by impact, abrasion and grinding.

Apparatus/Instruments and Equipment: LA Abrasion Testing Machine, Standard Sieves, Weighing Scale,
Oven, Steel Charge (Steel Spheres), No. 12 Sieve, Scoop, Tray and Container

Procedure:

1. Obtain a 5 kg of coarse aggregates sample, wash and reduce sample and oven dry at 110 ± 5℃.
2. Separate into individual size fractions by sieving.
3. Recombine the sieved sample corresponding to the range sizes or grading.
4. Record the mass or weight of the sample prior to the test nearest 1 gram.
5. Place the test sample and charge in the LA Abrasion Testing Machine and rotate the machine at a
speed of 30 to 33 revolution per minute for 500 revolutions.
6. Discharge the material from the machine and make a preliminary separation of the sample of a sieve
coarser than the 1. 70 mm (No. 12) sieve.
7. Sieve the finer portion on a No. 12 Sieve in a manner conforming to ASTM C 136.
8. Wash the material coarser than 1. 70 mm (No. 12) sieve and dry it in an oven at 110 ± 5℃.
9. Weigh and record the mass or weight of the test sample to the nearest 1 gram.

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Data Sheet:
Sample Test Sample Description of Coarse Weight of
Number Aggregates Sample
Weight of Saturated Coarse Aggregates in
1
Air (W1 )
Weight of Oven Dried Coarse Aggregates in
2
Air (W2 )
Moisture or Water Content (%)

Computation:
W −W
Percentage of Wear (Loss) = x 100%
W
Where:
W1 = initial mass (weight) of the test sample placed in abrasion machine
W2 = final mass (weight) of the test sample after test

Note: Frequency of the charge (steel sphere) depending upon the grading of the test sample.

Table 1: Gradings of Test Samples

Sieve Size (Square Openings) Mass of Indicated Sizes (grams)

Passing Retained A B C D
37.5 mm ( 1 𝑖𝑛. 25.0 mm (1 i n.) 1250 ± 25 - - -
25.0 mm (1 i n.) 19.0 mm 𝑖𝑛. 1250 ± 25 - - -
19.0 mm 𝑖𝑛. 12.5 mm 𝑖𝑛. 1250 ± 10 2500 ± 10 - -
12.5 mm 𝑖𝑛. 9.5 mm 𝑖𝑛. 1250 ± 10 2500 ± 10 - -
9.5 mm 𝑖𝑛. 6.3 mm 𝑖𝑛. - - 2500 ± 10 -
6.3 mm 𝑖𝑛. 4.75 mm (No. 4) - - 2500 ± 10 5000 ± 10
4.75 mm (No. 4) 2.36 mm (No. 8) - - - -
Tota l 5000 ± 10 5000 ± 10 5000 ± 10 5000 ± 10

Table 2: Frequency of the Charge based on the Gradings of the Test Sample

Grading Number of Spheres Mass of Charge (grams)

A 12 5000 ± 25
B 11 4584 ± 25
C 8 3330 ± 20
D 6 2500 ± 15

3. Test for Density of Aggregates (ASTM Designation C 127 – 07) (ASTM Designation C 127 – 07)

Scope: Density test method covers the procedure to determine of the average density of quantity of
coarse aggregates (not including the volume of the voids between the particles). Depending on the
procedure used and expressed as oven-dry (OD), saturated surface-dry (SSD) or as apparent density. The
oven-dry (OD) is determined after drying the aggregates and the saturated surface -dry (SSD) is

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determined after soaking the aggregates in a water for a prescribed direction. The test is not intended for
lightweight aggregates.

Apparatus/Instruments and Equipment: Water bath, Wire Mesh Bucket, Weighing Machine, Scoop,
Spoon, Metal Cylinder and Tray

Procedure for Fine Aggregates:

a. Weigh the test sample, placed in in wire mesh bucket and wash it with water to remove dirt and
impurities.
b. Transfer the washed and saturated test sample after completely immersed in water for 24 hours and
placed in a tray.
c. Carefully drain the water from the test sample through the 75 micron sieve and removed the bubbles
of entrapped air by gentle agitation with a rod.
d. Expose the test sample to warm air and stir it at frequent intervals to evaporate surface moisture.
e. Place the test sample in the pycnometer and fill the pycnometer with water. Screw the cone and
remove the entrapped air by rotating it on side. Top up the pycnometer to flatten the whole surface
of the hole. Clean the outside surface pycnometer bottle, wipe it with dry cloth and weigh.
f. Remove all the contents of the pycnometer bottle and place it in a tray. Refill the pycnometer bottle
with water same level with the previous step. Clean the outside surface pycnometer bottle, wipe it
with dry cloth and weigh.
g. Dry the test sample removed from the pycnometer bottle in an oven with temperature of 110 ± 5℃
at room temperature for 1 to 3 hours and weigh.

Data Sheet:

Sample Weight of
Test Sample Description of Fine Aggregates
Number Sample
Weight of Saturated Surface-Dry Sample in
1
Air (W1 )
Weight of Pycnometer Bottle Containing
2
Sample Filled with Water (W2)
Weight of Pycnometer Bottle Filled with
3
Water (W3)
4 Wight of Oven-Dried Sample in Air (W4)
Density on oven-Dried Basis (DOD)
Density on a Saturated Surface-Dry
Basis(DSSD)
Apparent Density Basis (AD)

Computations:

a. Density on oven-Dried Basis (DOD):

W
DOD = xγ
[W − (W − W )]

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b. Density on a Saturated Surface-Dry Basis(DSSD):
W
DSSD = xγ
[ W − (W − W )]

c. Apparent Density Basis (AD):

W
AD = xγ
[W − (W − W )]

Procedure for Coarse Aggregates:

a. Weigh the test sample, placed in in wire mesh bucket and wash it with water to remove dirt and
impurities and weigh.
b. Dry the test sample of constant weight in an oven with temperature of 110 ± 5℃ at room
temperature for 1 to 3 hours.
c. After the test sample cooled at temperature that is comfortable to handle; immediately immerse the
test sample in water at room temperature within 24 hours.
d. The test sample with the wire mesh bucket are weighed while suspended in water at a room
temperature.
e. The test sample of with wire mesh bucket are removed and surface dried with absorbent cloth and
weigh.
f. The test sample is placed in a tray and dried in an oven with temperature of 105 oC at room
temperature for 24 hours.
g. The dried and cooled test sample is placed in a metal cylinder and we igh.

Data Sheet:
Sample Weight of
Test Sample Description of Fine Aggregates
Number Sample
1 Weight of Oven Dry Test Sample (W1 )
Weight of Saturated Surface-Dry Test
2
Sample (W2)
Apparent Weight Saturated Test Sample in
3
Water (W3)
Density on oven-Dried Basis (DOD)
Density on a Saturated Surface-Dry
Basis(DSSD)
Apparent Density Basis (AD)

Computations:

a. Density on oven-Dried Basis (DOD):

W
DOD = xγ
W −W

b. Density on a Saturated Surface-Dry Basis(DSSD):

W
DSSD = xγ
W −W

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c. Apparent Density Basis (AD):
W
AD = xγ
W −W

4. Uniformity, Gradation or Particle Size Distribution of Aggregates (ASTM Designation C 136 – 01)

Scope: Particle size distribution test method covers the determination of particle size distribution of fine
and coarse aggregates by sieving. This method contains grading requirements including both coarse and
fine fractions. A suitable gradation in a concrete desirable mixture in order to secure the quality,
workability and economy of aggregates in cement. For asphalt concrete, suitable gradation only affect the
workability of the mixture and economy in the use of asphalt, but also will affect significantly the strength
and the other important properties.

Apparatus/Instruments and Equipment: Mechanical Shaker, Set of Sieves with Pan and Cover,
Containers, Weighing Machine and Sieve Brush

Procedure:

a. Obtain proper weights of dry aggregates.

Coarse Aggregates: 1, 000 grams use method of quartering or sampler splitter.
Fine Aggregates: 1, 000 grams use method of quartering or sample splitter.
b. Assemble sieves in the following order:
Coarse Aggregates: 1”, ¾”, ½”, 3/8 ”, #4, #8 and pan
Fine Aggregates: 3/8 ”, #4, #8, #10, #12, #16, #30, #50, #100, #200 and pan
c. Place the weighted aggregates in the top of the sieve stack and cover with the lid or cover. Properly
secure the sieves in the mechanical shaker and turn on the shaker for five (5) minutes. In case of the
absence of mechanical shaker, shake the stack of sieves with your hand continuously for the same
time.
d. Weigh the materials that are retained on each of the sieves, including the weight retained on the pan
and record in the data sheet. If the sums of these weights are not within 1% of the original sample
weight, the procedure should be repeated. Otherwise, use the sum of the weight retained to calculate
the percentage on each sieve.
e. Compute the cumulative percent retained and the percent passing each sieve.
a. Plot the gradation curves for the coarse and fine aggregates from the experiment on the graph
provided. Plot the specified gradation curves for the coarse and fine aggregates. Plot the combined
grading curve using 40% coarse aggregate and 60% fine aggregate.

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 Sieve Analysis Data Sheet

Coarse Aggregates

Initial Weight of Sample: ____________ grams

Final Weight of Sample : ____________ grams
Moisture Content : ____________ %
Fineness Modulus : ____________ %
Percentage Error in Weights: _________ %

Sieve Size Weight Retained (g) Cumulative Percentage Retained Percentage Passing
1”
¾”
½”
3/8 ”
#4
#8
Pan

Fine Aggregates

Initial Weight of Sample: ____________ grams

Final Weight of Sample: ____________ grams
Moisture Content: ____________ %
Fineness Modulus: ____________ %
Percentage Error in Weights: _________ %

Sieve Size Weight Retained (g) Cumulative Percentage Retained Percentage Passing
3/8
#4
#8
#10
#12
#16
#30
#40
#50
#100
#200
Pan

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 Sieve Analysis Gradation Curves

Coarse Aggregates Fine Aggregates

% %
P P
A A
S S
S S
I I
N N
G G

SIEVE NUMBER SIEVE NUMBER

Computations:

a. Cumulative Percentage Retained:

Weight Retained Sieve No. 1

Cumulatvie % Retained Sieve No. 1 = x 100%
Total Weight Retained of Sample

Weight Retained Sieve (No. 1 + No. 2)

Cumulatvie % Retained Sieve No. 2 = x 100%
Total Weight Retained of Sample

Weight Retained Sieve (No1 + No. 2 + ⋯ . . +No. N)

Cumulatvie % Retained Sieve No. N = 𝑥 100%
Total Weight Retained of Sample

Weight Retained Sieve (No1 + No. 2 + ⋯ . . +Pan)

Cumulatvie % Retained Pan = 𝑥 100%
Total Weight Retained of Sample

b. Percentage Passing:

Percentage Passing Sieve No. 1 = 100 − Cumulative % Retained sieve No. 1

Percentage Passing Sieve No. 2 = 100 − Cumulative % Retained sieve No. 2

Percentage Passing Sieve No. N = 100 − Cumulative % Retained sieve No. N

Percentage Passing Pan = 0

c. Moisture Content

Initial Weight of Sample − Final Weight of Sample

Moisture Content = x 100%
Final Weight of Sample

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d. Fineness Modulus:

∑(Cumulatuve Percentage Retaind Sieve No. 1 to Sieve No, N)

Fineness Modulus =
100

e. Percentage Error in Weights:

Total Weight Retained of Sample

Percentage of Error = 100 − x 100
Final Weight of Sample

References:

1. Materials of Construction by DN Ghose, 1989

2. Civil Engineering Materials by Technical Teachers Training Institute, 1992
3. Engineering Materials by Emmanuel F. Nino and Teresita G. Nino, 1983
4. Materials of Construction 4th Edition by Chandigarah, 1990
5. Testing of Engineering Materials by Gildey, Murphy & Bragman, 1982
6. Structural Engineering and Construction 4th Edition Volume 1 by Venancio I. Besavilla Jr., 1999
7. American Society of Testing Materials (ASTM)
8. American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO)

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