Tests on soils and gravels Page 1 of 2

TMH1: Standard Methods of Testing Road Construction Materials, 1986

Tests on soils and gravels

Method A1: The wet preparation and sieve analysis of gravel, sand and soil samples.

Method A2: The determination of the Liquid Limit of soils by means of the flow curve method.

Method A3: The determination of the Plastic Limit and Plasticity Index of soils.

Method A4: The determination of the linear shrinkage of soils.

Method A5: The determination of the percentage of material, in a soil sample, passing a 0,075 mm sieve.

Method A6: The determination of the grain size distribution in soils by means of a hydrometer.

Method A7: The determination of the maximum dry density and optimum moisture content of gravel, soil and sand.

Method A8: The determination of the California Bearing Ratio of untreated soils and gravels.

Method A9: The determination of the California Bearing Ratio of lime-stabilized soils and gravels.

Method A10(a): The determination of the in-place dry density of soil or gravel by the sand replacement method.

Method A10(b) T: Tentative method for determining the in-place density and moisture content of soils and gravels by nuclear methods.

Tests on aggregates

Method B1: The determination of the Aggregate Crushing Value.

Method B2: The determination of the 10 per cent Fines Aggregate Crushing Value.

Method B3T: Tentative method for the determination of the Flakiness Index of a coarse aggregate.

Method B4: The sieve analysis of aggregates, including the determination of the material passing the 0,425 and 0,075 mm sieves.

Method B6: The determination of organic impurities in sand for concrete.

Method B7: The determination of the Treton impact value of aggregate.

Method B9: The determination of the bulk density of coarse and fine aggregate.

Method B10: The determination of the shrinkage properties of concrete aggregate.

Method B11: The determination of the adhesion of bituminous binder to stone aggregate by means of the chemical immersion test (Riedel
Weber).

Method B12: The determination of the effect of soluble deleterious material in fine aggregate for concrete.

Method B13: The determination of the fineness modulus of fine aggregates.

Method B14: The determination of the dry bulk density, apparent relative density and water absorption of aggregate retained on the 4,75 mm
sieve.

Method B15: The determination of the dry bulk density, apparent relative density and water absorption of aggregate passing the 4,75 mm
sieve.

Method B16T: The quantitative determination of the total water-soluble salts in soils and aggregates.

Method B17T: The quantitative determination of the water-soluble sulphates in soils and aggregates.

Method B18: The determination of the average least dimension of aggregates.

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Tests on soils and gravels Page 2 of 2

Method B19: The determination of the sand equivalent of aggregates.

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 METHOD A1
THE WET PREPARATION AND SIEVE ANALYSIS OF GRAVEL, SAND AND SOIL
SAMPLES

1 SCOPE

The preparation of a gravel, sand or soil sample involves the quantitative separation of
the soil fines portion, i.e. the material passing the 0,425 mm sieve, from the coarser
portion as well as the sieve analysis of the coarser portion. The soil fines are required
for the mechanical analysis and for the determination of the Atterberg constants and
the linear shrinkage.

2 APPARATUS

2.1 A riffler with 25,0 mm openings.

2.2 The following test sieves, complying with SABS 197, with sieves larger than 4,75 mm
of perforated plate and sieves 4,75 mm and smaller of wire mesh:

(a) A 19,0 mm sieve, recommended diameter 450 mm.

(b) A 63,0mm, 53,0mm, 37,5mm, 26,5mm and 19,0 mm sieve, recommended
diameter 300 mm, with a pan.
(c) A 63,0 mm, 53,0 mm, 37,5 mm, 2~,5 mm, 19,0 mm, 13,2 mm, 4,75 mm, 2,0 mm
and 0,425 mm sieve, recommended diameter 200 mm, with pan and cover.

2.3 A mechanical sieve shaker (optional).

2.4 A balance with a pan to weigh up to 5 kg, accurate to 19.

2.5 Basins and pans:

(a) A basin, about 500 mm in diameter.

(b) Basins, about 350 mm in diameter.
(c) Square pans, about 300 mm square at the top, tapering to 250 mm square at the
bottom.

2.6 A 150mm nominal diameter iron mortar and pestle and a rubber-tipped pestle.

2.7 Hotplates or ring gas-burners.

2.8 A drying oven, thermostatically controlled and capable of maintaining a temperature

of 105 to 110 • C.

2.9 Brushes:

(a) A brass or copper wire brush, measuring about 50mm x 25mm with bristles not
more than 25 mm long.
(b) A hard-bristle nail-brush, measuring about 80mmx25mm.
2.10 A supply tank for distilled water.

2.11 Paper bags, 1 kg capacity.

2.12 A steel-bladed spatula, with a blade about 100 mm long

3 METHOD

3.1 Size of test sample

The size of the test sample will depend on the amount of soil fines (i.e. the portion
passing the 0,425 mm sieve) present in the material. At least 300 9 of soil fines are
required for the mechanical analysis and for the determination of the soil constants
and the linear shrinkage. In the case of a soil which consists mostly of soil fines, a test
sample of about 400 gram should prove adequate, whilst in the case of a gravel
containing, for example, only 10 per cent of soil fines, the required quantity of
material will be approximately 3,000 to 4,000 grams. The sample received from the
field should, therefore, be quartered down by means of a riffler to the required size.

3.2 Quartering

3.2.1 The sample is emptied from the sample bag into one or more of the riffler pans. The
material is then poured through the riffler by slowly tilting the pan so that the material
flows in an even stream over the width of the pan. At the same time the pan is moved
to and fro along the full length of the riffler ensuring an even flow of the material. The
process is repeated with the contents of one of the pans under the riffler until a sample
of the required size is obtained.

3.2.2 The test sample should, of course, be representative of the field sample and it is
important to ensure a free flow of the material through the openings of the riffler.
Problems arise in the case of samples containing coarse aggregate, large soil clods
and/or large lumps of wet clay. As these will lodge in or on the openings of the riffler,
they should first be removed by sieving before the material is passed through the
riffler. In such cases, the following procedure should be used:

3.2.2.1 The sample is poured onto the 450mm diameter, 19,0 mm opening sieve which is
placed in a 500 mm basin. Any large soil aggregations or clods retained on the sieve
should be disintegrated in the mortar by applying pressure to the pestle or by tamping
very lightly. The disintegrated material is added to the portion passing the sieve,
which is then subdivided in the riffler as described above.
The aggregate retained on the sieve is sub-divided by the method of coning and
quartering. This is accomplished by forming the material into a cone which is pressed
flat and by dividing into tour quadrants, rejecting the two opposite quadrants and
continuing the process of coning and quartering until a portion of the required size is
obtained. If the material passing the 19,0 mm sieve is divided by the riffler to obtain a
portion of say a quarter of the field sample, the coarse aggregate is divided an equal
number of times. That portion of the coarse aggregate is now added to the portion
passing the 19,0 mm sieve and this then constitutes the test sample which is
considered to be representative of the sample as received from the field (see 5.1).
3.2.2.2 There is normally no need to dry the material before quartering, but if the sample
contains large lumps of wet clay which cannot be dis-integrated it should first be dried
in an oven at a temperature not exceeding 110 • C. The clods are then disintegrated in
the mortar so as to pass the 19,0 mm sieve after which the material is divided in the
riffler in the same manner as described above.

3.3 Dry Sieving

The material should be sufficiently dry so that it can be sieved through the 0,425 mm
sieve without clogging the sieve. Therefore, if the quartered test sample is wet or
damp, it should be dried in an oven at a temperature not exceeding 110 • C. The
sample is then weighed and sieved through a 0,425 mm sieve. It is desirable to place a
2.00 mm or a 4,75 mm sieve above the 0,425 mm sieve to act as a guard for the finer
sieve. The material retained on the 0,425 mm sieve is transferred to a mortar and by
rubbing with a rubber-tipped pestle, most of the soil aggregations are disintegrated
and at the same time most of the soil adhering to the aggregate is dislodged. The
material is then sieved again through the 0,425 mm sieve. As much of the soil fines as
possible should be separated in this way. The soil fines thus obtained are transferred
to a paper bag which is placed in a drying oven at a temperature of 105 -110• C
(see5.2).

3.4 Boiling and Washing

The material retained on the 0,425 mm sieve is transferred to a tin basin, covered with
distilled or deionised water and brought to the boil (see 5.3). It is boiled vigorously for
about one minute and then allowed to cool. If necessary, the material should then be
worked thoroughly by hand in the water so as to ensure that all soil aggregations are
disintegrated and that all the soil adhering to the aggregate has been loosened. The
larger aggregate is removed and washed with distilled water on the 0,425mm sieve
held over a clean basin until the wash water is clear. It is again desirable to protect the
sieve by fitting a coarser sieve above it. The clean aggregate is then transferred to a
square pan. The finer material remaining in the boiling basin is then stirred vigorously
and the mass is poured quantitatively on to the 0,425 mm sieve held over the second
basin. Both the sieve and the basin from which the material is poured should be
agitated vigorously during pouring. The basin is then washed clean with a jet of
distilled or deionised water whilst still being held over the sieve. The material on the
sieve is washed by directing a jet of distilled or deionised water on to the material
until the wash water is clean. The sieve should be agitated whilst washing. If the soil
is very clayey, the sieve should be placed in the water and the material on the sieve
agitated by rubbing with the fingers against the side of the sieve as this will speed-up
the washing process. The sieve should also be raised and lowered in the wash water as
this facilitates washing and keeps the amount of wash water required to a minimum.
The washed material is transferred to the square pan by inverting the sieve and
washing down with water. The water in the pan is poured off carefully and the
material dried in an oven at a temperature of 105 to 110 • C.

3.5 Drying and disintegration of fines

The suspension containing the fines washed through the 0,425 mm sieve is boiled
 down to a slurry which is then dried in an oven at a temperature of 105 to 110 • C (see
5.4). The dried soil in the bottom of the basin is loosened with a stiff wire brush or
with a spatula in the case of clayey soils. The material adhering to the sides of the
basin is brushed down and the slurry is disintegrated as far as possible with the brush.
The material is sieved through the 0,425 mm sieve and clods retained on the sieve are
disintegrated in the mortar with a rubber-tipped pestle, or if too hard, with the iron
pestle. It is not necessary to crush very finely--just sufficiently to enable all the
material to pass the 0,425 mm sieve. The soil fines are added to the portion obtained
by dry sieving as described in 3.3.

3.6 Sieve analysis

After drying, the material retained on the 0,425 mm sieve is sieved through a nest of
sieves consisting of the following: 63,0 mm, 53,0 mm, 37,5 mm, 26,5 mm, 19,0 mm,
13,2 mm, 4,75 mm, 2,0 mm and 0,425 mm. The sieving should be thorough and be
done either by hand or by means of a mechanical sieve shaker. On no account should
any sieve be overloaded as some of the fine material may be kept back if the layer on
the sieve is too deep. If necessary, the material should be divided into fractions which
are then sieved separately. After sieving, the material retained on each sieve is
weighed and the masses recorded in the appropriate column of Form A1/1 (or a
similar form). Weighings should be accurate to the nearest 1 gram. The material
passing the 0,425 mm sieve is added to the soil fines portions obtained by dry sieving
and by washing. All this material is now transferred to the scoop of the scale (or other
similar container) where it is thoroughly mixed by stirring. It is then weighed and
returned to the paper bag ready for the mechanical analysis and for the determination
of the Atterberg constants and the linear shrinkage.

4 CALCULATIONS

The mass of each fraction retained between two sieves and the fraction passing the
0,425 mm sieve is converted to a percentage of the total mass of the dry material.
(The mass of the original test sample is merely determined to serve as a check that no
serious error has been made. This latter mass will normally be some- what higher than
that of the dry material due to the presence of hygroscopic moisture.) The percentage
retained on each sieve is then converted to a percentage passing the sieve. The
percentages are calculated and reported to the nearest whole number on the appended
A1/2 (or similar) Form and/or plotted on a suitable grading sheet such as the A1/3
Form.

5 NOTES

5.1 I n cases where the quantity of the different sizes of coarse aggregate in the field
sample is such that it cannot be subdivided into a reasonably representative portion by
coning and quartering, the sieve analysis carried out on the relatively small test
sample will be far from accurate. A sieve analysis is, therefore, carried out on all the
aggregate retained on the 19,0 mm sieve using a nest of 300 mm diameter sieves with
openings from 63,0 mm to 19,0 mm. Seeing that in this case the aggregate is not
subjected to the usual boiling and washing, care should be taken to remove any soil
adhering to the aggregate before the sieve analysis is carried out. The actual test
 sample will now only consist of a portion of the material passing the 19,0 mm sieve
and it is, therefore, important to remember that the above sieve analysis should be
corrected, as it is carried out on al I the coarse aggregate in the field sample. If the test
sample consists of an eighth of the field sample, the masses of the aggregate fractions
retained on the sieves should be divided by eight. After the sieve analysis, all the
coarse aggregate is returned to the sample bag, i.e. it is combined with the unused
portion of the material passing the 19,0mm sieve. It should now be remembered that
the material in the bag is no longer a representative sample, and should it be necessary
to repeat the test, allowance must be made in the subsequent calculations.

5.2 The soil fines obtained from sieving will contain hygroscopic moisture, except where
the test sample was oven-dried prior to sieving. It is not considered necessary to dry
the fines to constant mass, but by keeping the paper bag with the fines in the oven for
at least the time required to complete all the subsequent processes, some of the
moisture will be driven off. Such soil is considered to be sufficiently dry for the
determination of the percentage passing through a 0,075 mm sieve and for hydrometer
analysis (see Method A5 and Method A6).

5.3 As an alternative to boiling, the material may be left to soak overnight.

5.4 Care should be taken to ensure that the soil is not overheated as this may change its
characteristics. The basin should, therefore, be removed timeously from the hot plate
or gas burner, i.e. whilst the material is still in the form of a thin slurry.

5.5 Clean rain water may be used instead of distilled or deionised water.

5.6 It is essential that the particle size should not be altered during the preparation. Only
friable decomposed material and soil clods should be dis-integrated. The extent to
which decomposed material is to be disintegrated cannot be specified and must be left
to the discretion of the operator. Material from compacted layers in the road should be
prepared without disintegrating the decomposed material.

REFERENCE

AASHTO Designation T146 - 49

 METHOD A2

THE DETERMINATION OF THE LIQUID LIMIT OF SOILS

BY MEANS OF THE FLOW CURVE METHOD
1 SCOPE

The liquid limit of a soil as defined below is determined by using the device specified
to plot a curve of the number of taps necessary to obtain a specific consistency of the
soil fines against the moisture contents in three trials. Provision is also made for the
calculation of the liquid limit from a one-point determination if that method is
specified

Definition

The liquid limit of a soil is the moisture content, expressed as a percentage of the
mass of the oven-dried soil, at the boundary between the liquid and plastic states The
moisture content at this boundary is arbitrari1y defined as the liquid limit and is the
moisture content at a consistency as determined by means of the standard liquid limit
apparatus

2 APPARATUS

2.1 A liquid limit device (Figure A 2/1) The base of the apparatus must be made of hard
rubber with a Shore D value of 85 -95 at 23±2• C.

22 A grooving tool (Figure A 2/11)

23 A calibrating plate with a thickness of 10 0 mm (t01 mm)

24 A porcelain evaporating dish with a diameter of about 100 mm

25 A spatula with a slightly fbxibie blade about 100 mm long and 20 mm wide

26 A burette with a capacity of 50 ml or 100 ml

27 Suitable container such as weighing bottles with a capacity of 30 ml to 45 ml or

matched watch glasses which will prevent the loss of moisture during weighing

28 A balance to weigh up to 100 gram accurate to 0 01gram.

2.9 A drying oven thermostatically controlled and capable of maintaining a temperature of

105 to 110 C

3 METHOD

3.1 Calibration of the liquid limit device.

The height to which the bowl is raised on rotating the handle shall be adjusted by
means of the 10 mm calibrating plate. The plate is placed on the hard rubber base and
 the bowl is allowed to rest on the plate. The hinged support of the bowl is now moved
backwards or forwards by means ot the thumbscrew until the cam, on rotation, just
raises ihe bowl free of the plate. The lock-screw is then tightened and the fall again
checked. The device should preferably be checked daily.

3.2 Test procedure for plastic soils

48 grams of the thoroughly mixed soil fines (i.e. the material passing the 0,425 mm
sieve), obtained in accordance with the standard method of preparation (Method A1),
are weighed out and transferred to a porcelain dish. Distilled water is added by means
of a burette and the moist material is then thoroughly mixed for 10 minutes with a
spatula (see 5.1). In order to facilitate mixing, the water should be added in small
quantities. When sufficient water has been mixed with the soil to form a stiff
consistency, approximately three-quarters of the wet soil is transferred to the brass
bowl of the liquid limit device, mixed slightly and flattened out in the front portion of
the bowl with the spatula. The material is then divided into two equal portions with
one cut of the grooving tool. The groove should fall along the centre-line drawn
through the cam-follower attached to the bowl. The device is then operated at a speed
which results in two taps per second being applied to the soil, until the lower parts of
the faces of the two soil portions have flowed together and made contact across a
distance of about 10mm. The number of taps required to close the groove across this
distance is recorded and a sample of approximately 2 to 3 grams, representative of the
total thickness of the layer, is transferred to a tared weighing bottle (or other suitable
container) for the determination of its moisture content.
The procedure is repeated for two additional determinations on the soil in the bowl of
the liquid limit device. However, before each test 2 to 3 grams material from the
porcelain dish are added to the material in the bowl so as to ensure that the quantity of
material in the bowl is approximately the same for all the determinations. Sufficient
distilled water-is added each time in order to obtain three samples of varying
consistencies, such that at least one determination will be made in preferably each of
the following ranges of tap: 28-35, 22-28 and 15-22. The test should preferably
proceed from the drier to the wetter condition of the soil The moist material which has
been left over in the bowl is at once transferred to the shrinkage trough tor the
determination of the linear shrinkage (see Method A4).
 The moist material which has been left over in the porcelain dish is set aside for the
determination of the plastic limit (see Method A3).
The containers with the soil samples are weighed, after which the samples are oven
dried to constant mass at 105 to 110• C. As a rule the material is dried overnight.
When the containers are removed from the oven, the lids are replaced to prevent the
absorption of hygroscopic moisture, and after being allowed to cool, they are weighed
again. The loss in mass is the mass of water which is then expressed as a percentage
of the oven-dried mass of soil. The appended Form A2/1 (or similar) may be used for
recording the mass determinations which should be accurate to 0,01 gram.

3.3 Test procedure for slightly plastic or non-plastic soils.

The procedure is the same as for plastic soils, except that special care should be taken
in the cutting of the groove. After the wet material has been transferred to the bowl, it
is again mixed slightly and then bedded down in the bowl by pressing it down with
the spatula and tapping the bowl a few times before grooving. The groove should be
cut in the material in a manner such as to avoid tearing of the sides of the groove or
slipping of the soil cake in the bowl. Instead of making one clear cut, a succession of
light cuts which gradually result in the required cut may be found to work better.
When tapping, the operator should ensure that the soil portions actually flow together
and do not slide together. If the soil portions slide together, the material should be
re-mixed slightly and the test repeated. If the soil portions continue to slide, it must be
accepted that the liquid lim it cannot be determined .

4. CALCULATIONS

4.1 Moisture Content (%)

The moisture content of the soil is expressed as a percentage of the mass of the
oven-dried soil and is calculated as follows:

Mass of water
Moisture content (%) = ---------------------------- X 100
Mass of oven-dried soil

The calculations should be carried out to the first decimal figure.

4.2 Liquid limit

A "flow curve" representing the relationship between moisture content and

corresponding number of taps is then drawn by plotting the moisture contents as
ordinates on a natural scale and the number of taps as abscissae on a logarithmic scale.
The flow curve should be a straight line drawn as nearly as possible through the three
plotted points (see appended example Figure A2/lll).
The moisture content corresponding to 25 taps is then read off from the curve and is
taken as the liquid limit of the soil and reported to the nearest whole number on the
A1/2 Form (or similar form).
5 NOTES

5.1 It has been found that the liquid limit of certain materials is influenced by the time of
mixing. There is a tendency, particularly noticeable in the case of decomposed
dolerites and certain pedogenic materials, for the liquid limit to increase as the time of
mixing is increased, although this increase will, of course, not continue indefinitely.
Hence it was considered necessary to stipulate a mixing time and a period of ten
minutes was decided on.

5.2 One Point method

The liquid limit may also be determined by means of the one-point method which is
considered a derivation of the flow curve method described above. According to the
one-point method, the test is carried out at one consistency of the soil sample and the
liquid limit is calculated by means of a formula.
The test procedure is the same as for the first determination in the flow curve method,
except that the number of taps for groove closure should be restricted to between 22
and 28 taps. After the moisture content has been determined, the liquid limit
corresponding to 25 taps is calculated using the following formula:

LL = WN x (N ÷ 25) 0,12

where

N = number ot taps required to close the groove at the moisture content, WN

To simplify the calculation of the LL above, values of (N ÷ 25) 0,12 are given in the table
below for various values of N

N (N÷25) 0,12

22 0.985
23 0.990
24 0.995
25 1.000
26 1.005
27 1.009
28 1.014

The test is duplicated by adding 2 to 3 grams of material from the porcelain dish to the
material in the bowl of the liquid limit device and repeating the procedure.
The calculations should be carried out to the first decimal figure and the average of
the two determinations is taken as the liquid limit, which is reported to the nearest
whole number on a suitable form such as the A1/2 Form.
The moist material which has been left over in the bowl of the liquid limit device after
the duplicate determination is at once transferred to the linear shrinkage trough for the
determination of the linear shrinkage (see Method A4).
The remainder of the moist material in the porcelain dish is set aside for the
 determination of the plastic limit (see Method A3).

5.3 The bowl and the hard rubber base will be found to wear and these parts should be
inspected regularly. If the bowl is badly worn, it should be replaced. If the base is
badly worn, it should be reversed, machined off level or replaced.

5.4 The groover should also be inspected regularly and its head reversed or replaced
whenever the cutting edge becomes slightly worn.

5.5 In the case of dispute, the flow curve method shall be the referee method.

REFERENCES

AASHTO Designation T89t0

ASTM Designation D423-66
 METHOD A3

THE DETERMINATION OF THE PLASTIC LIMIT AND PLASTICITY INDEX OF SOILS

SCOPE

This method covers the determination of the plastic limit of a soil as defined
hereunder by measuring the lowest moisture content at which the soil can be rolled
into threads 3 mm in diameter without the threads crumbling. It also covers the
calculation of the plasticity index from the liquid limit determined in Method A2, and
the plastic limit.

Definition

Plastic limit: The plastic limit of a soil is the moisture content, expressed as a
percentage of the mass of the oven-dried soil, at the boundary between the plastic and
semi-solid states.

Plasticity index: The plasticity index of a soil is the numerical, difference between the
liquid limit and the plastic limit of the soil and indicates the magnitude of the range of
the moisture contents over which the soil is in a plastic condition.

2 APPARATUS

2.1 A ground-glass plate measuring 150 mm x 220 mm.

2.2 Suitable containers, such as weighing bottles with a capacity ot 30 ml to 45 ml, or

matched watch glasses which will prevent the loss of moisture during weighing.

2.3 A balance to weigh up to 100gram, accurate to 0,01 gram.

2.4 A drying oven, thermostatically controlled, and capabie of maintaining a temperature

of 105 to 110 • C.

3. METHOD

Approximately 2 to 3 gram ot the moist soil set aside trom the liquid limit
determination k kneaded with the tingers into an ellipsoidal shape. It is then rolled
into a thread of uniform diameter throughout its length. As a rule the rolling is done
between the palms ot the two hands, or, when dealing with slightly cohesive or
cohesion less materials, between the finger of one hand and the palm of the other
hand, so as to reduce the pressure on the thread. This is considered to be a satisfactory
and convenient procedure and only in the case ot highly plastic soils with very tough
threads is the rolling done on the ground-glass plate, using either the fingers or the
palm of the hand (see 5.1). When the diameter of the thread is 3 mm, the soil is again
kneaded into an ellipsoidal shape and rolled out. This process is continued until the
crumbling of the soil prevents the formation of a thread 3 mm in diameter. This means
that the crumbling occurs when the thread has a diameter slightly greater than 3 mm,
but this is regarded as a satisfactory end point, provided that just prior to that, the soil
 has been rolled into a thread 3 mm in diameter. The operator should ensure that the
thread is not broken up or crumbled by applying excessive pressure, but that it
crumbles on account of a lack of plasticity. The crumbled soil thread is transferred to
a tared weighing bottle (or other suitable container) for the determination of its
moisture content. A duplicate determination should be carried out in precisely the
same manner.
The containers with the soil samples are weighed to the nearest 0,01gram, after which
the samples are oven-dried to constant mass at 105 to 110• C. As a rule the material is
dried overnight. When the containers are removed from the oven, the lids are replaced
to prevent the absorption of hygroscopic moisture, and after being allowed to cool,
they are weighed again. The determinations of mass are recorded on Form A2/1 or
similar (see Method A2). The loss in mass i8 the mass of water which is expressed as
a percentage of the oven-dried mass of the soil. Duplicate determinations should not
vary by more than 1,5 units.

4 CALCULATIONS

4.1 Plastic limit : The plastic limit is expressed as the moisture content in percentage of
the mass of the oven-dried soil and is calculated as follows:

Mass of water
Plastic limit = ----------------------------- x 100
Mass of oven dried soil

The calculation should be carried out to the first decimal figure, and the average of the
two determinations is taken as the plastic limit.

4.2 Plasticity index: The plasticity index is obtained by subtracting the plastic limit from
the liquid limit, and is determined to the first decimal figure.

The plasticity index is reported with the liquid limit (Method A2) and the linear
shrinkage (Method A4) to the nearest whole number on Form A1/2 or a similar form.

If the liquid limit cannot bedetermined, both the liquid limit and the plasticity index
are reported as S.P. (slightly plastic) if there is slight shrinkage according to Method
A4, or as N.P. (non-plastic) if there is no shrinkage at all.

5 NOTES

5.1 In the case of plastic soils, a considerable amount of kneading and rolling is required
in order to reduce the moisture content of the moist material to the plastic.limit. This
is time consuming, and it is therefore suggested that the moist material from the liquid
limit determination be spread out in a thin layer on the table and left to dry out
appreciably before rolling is commenced. The moisture content should not be reduced
by the admixture of dry soil.

5.2 If it is found impossible to determine the liquid limit, the determination of the plastic
limit is not attempted.
REFERENCES

AASHTO Designation T90-61

ASTM Designation D424-59
 METHOD A4

THE DETERMINATION OF THE LINEAR SHRINKAGE OF SOILS

SCOPE

This method covers the determination of the linear shrinkage of soil when it is dried
from a moisture content equivalent to the liquid limit to the oven-dry state.

Definition

The linear shrinkage of a soil for the moisture content equivalent to the liquid limit, is
the decrease in one dimension, expressed as a percentage of the original dimension
of the soil mass, when the moisture content is reduced from the liquid limit to an
oven-dry state.

2 APPARATUS

2.1 A shrinkage trough with inside dimensions of 150 ± 0,25mm long x 10 ± 0,25 x 10 ±
0,25mm and made of 1,6 mm thick tinned copper or stainless steel.

2.2 A small thick-bristle paint brush, about 5 mm wide.

2.3 Paraffin wax.

2.4 A small enamel dish or other suitable container in which to melt the wax.

2.5 A spatula with a slightly flexible blade about 100 mm long and 20 mm wide.

2.6 A drying oven, thermostatically controlled, and capable of maintaining a temperature

ot 105 to 110 • C.

2..7 A pair of dividers and a millimetre scale.

3 METHOD

3.1 Waxing the trough

A clean, dry shrinkage trough is first warmed to prevent premature setting of the wax.
The inside ot the trough is then covered completely with a thin layer ot molten wax
applied by means of a small paint brush. Any excess or molten wax is shaken out by
tapping the trough lightly in an inverted position. The layer ot wax is now chilled by
rubbing the outside ot the trough with a damp cloth. This prevents the tendency to
crack on cooling, leaving the surface of the trough partly exposed. The tilm of wax in
the trough should weigh from 0,1 to 0,2 9 to obtain satisfactory results. Before using,
the trough should be inspected carefully, so as to ensure that there are no patches
without any wax.
3.2 Filling the trough

The test should be run immediately after the flow curve or one-point liquid limit test
(see Method A2) has been completed so that the moist material left over can be used
for filling the trough without further mixing. The number of taps required for groove
closure for the final determination in the liquid limit test should be recorded, since
this value is required in the calculation of the linear shrinkage.
Fill one half of the waxed trough with the moist soil by taking small pieces of soil on
the spatula and pressing the soil down against the one end of the trough and working
along the trough until the whole side is filled and the soil forms a diagonal surface
from the top of one side to the bottom of the opposite side (see Fig. (a)).
The trough is now turned round and the other portion is filled in the same manner (see
Fig. (b)). The hollow along the top of the soil in the trough is now filled so that the
soil is raised slightly above the sides of the trough (see Fig. (c) ). The excess material
is removed by drawing the blade of the spatula once only from the one end of the
trough to the other. The index finger is pressed down on the blade so that the blade
moves along the sides of the trough (see Fig. (d)). During this process the wet soil
may pull away from the end of the trough, in which case it should be pushed back
gently with the spatula.

N.B. The soil surface should on no account be smoothed or finished off with a wet
spatula.

3.3 Drying the wet material

The trough with wet material is now placed in a drying oven and dried at a
temperature of between 105 and 110 • C until all shrinkage has stopped. As a rule the
material is dried out overnight--though three hours should be sufficient time in the
oven. The trough with material is taken out and allowed to cool in the air.

3.4 Measuring the shrinkage

It will be found that the ends of the dry soil bar have a slight lip or projecting piece at
 the top. These lips must be removed by abrading with a sharp, narrow spatula, so that
the end of the soil bar is parallel to the end of the trough (see Fig. (e) ) . If the soil bar
is curved, it should be pressed back into the trough with the finger-tips so as to make
the top surface as level as possible.
The loose dust and sand, removed from the ends, as well as loose material between
cracks should be emptied out of the trough by carefully inverting the trough whilst the
material is being held in position with the fingers. The soil bar is then pressed tightly
against the end of the trough. It will be noticed that the soil bar fits better at the one
end than at the other end. The bar should be pressed tightly against the end at which
there is a better fit. The distance between the other end of the soil bar and the
respective end of the trough, is measured by means of a good pair of dividers,
measuring on a millimetre scale, to the nearest 0,5 mm and recorded on Form A2/1, or
similar, appended to Method A2.

4 CALCULATIONS

4.1 The linear shrinkage is calculated from the following formula (see 5.1):

0.8
LS = LSNx
1 − 0.008 N
where

LS = linear shrinkage, expressed as a percentage of the original wet length of 150

mm, when the moisture content is reduced from the liquid limit to an oven-dry
state.
LSN = linear shrinkage, expressed as a percentage of the original wet length of 150
mm, when the moisture content corresponding to N taps in the liquid limit test
is reduced to an oven-dry state.

The linear shrinkage is reported to the nearest 0.5 % on Form A1/2, or a similar form.

The formula may also be written as follows:

LS = shrinkage in mm as measured x f where :

100 0.8
f = ------ x ----------
150 1 - 0.008N

To simplify the calculation, values of f are given in the table below for various values
of N:

N f N f N f

15 0,61 22 0,65 29 0,70

16 0,61 23 0,65 30 0,70
17 0,62 24 0,66 31 0,71
 18 0,62. 25 0,67 32 0,72
19 0,63 26 0,67 33 0,73
20 0,64 27 0,68 34 0,73
21 0,64 28 0,69 35 0,74

5 NOTES

5.1 For a soil paste with a moisture content requiring between 15 and 35 taps for groove
closure in the liquid limit test, a linear relationship has been found to exist between
the number of taps (N) and the shrinkage of the soil paste when dried. Different soil
types give different straight line curves and there is a tendency for these lines to
converge at about N = 125 when the shrinkage = 0. For this family of straight lines,
the relationship between the linear shrinkage from a moisture content equivalent to the
liquid limit and the linear shrinkage from a moisture content corresponding to N taps
in the liquid limit test, is as given by the formula.

5.2 The troughs should be examined for dents and distorted sides, and any faults corrected
before use.

5.3 After testing, the soil bar should be examined to ensure that the corners of the trough
were filled properly and that no air pockets were contained in the soil bar.

REFERENCE

California Test Method 228 - A

 METHOD A5

THE DETERMINATION OF THE PERCENTAGE OF MATERIAL, IN A SOIL SAMPLE,

PASSING A 0,075 mm SIEVE

SCOPE

This method covers the determination of the quantity of material passing a 0,075 mm
sieve, expressed as a percentage of the total material, by washing a sample of prepared
soil fines on a 0.075 mm sieve.

2 APPARATUS

2.1 A balance to weigh up to 200 gram, accurate to 0,1 gram

2.2 A glass beaker or other suitable container, about 500 ml capacity.

2.3 A 0,075 mm sieve, complying with SABS 197.

2.4 A measuring cylinder, 500 ml capacity.

2.5 A glass rod ± 180 mm long.

2.6 A dish or small basin approximately 150 mm in diameter.

2.7 A drying oven, thermostatically controlled and capable of maintaining a temperature

of 105 - 110 • C.

3 METHOD

Weigh out 100 gram (50 gram for clayey materials containing a fairly high percentage
of the minus 0,075 mm traction) of the soil tines (i.e. material passing the 0,425mm
sieve) as prepared in accordance with Method A1. Transfer the weighed sample to the
glass beaker and add about 300 m/ ot water. Stir the soil-water mixture well with a
glass rod and leave it to stand for at least two hours.
Pour the suspension onto the 0,075 mm sieve and rinse the beaker with water until all
the soil is transferred trom the beaker to the sieve.
Wash the soil on the sieve thoroughly with water and rub it with the fingers against
the side of the sieve until there is no turther noticeable disintegration of soil
aggregations. All finer particles so produced are also washed through the sieve. The
material retained on the sieve is washed quantitatively into a suitable dish and dried to
constant mass. The oven-dried material is then sieved through the 0,075 mm sieve and
the fraction retained and weighed. Weighing should be done to the nearest 0,1gram
and recorded.

4 CALCULATIONS

The percentage passing the 0,075 mm sieve in the total sample is calculated as
follows:
 ( A − B)
P = Sf
A
where:

P = percentage passing the 0,075 mm sieve in the total material

Sf = percentage soil fines in the total material
A = mass of soil fines used for test, before washing
B = mass of dry material retained on sieve after washing

The results must be calculated and reported to the nearest whole number on Form
A1/2 (or a similar form).

5 NOTES

5.1 The amount of material passing the 0,075mm sieve can also be determined by
hydrometer (Method A6). Comparative determinations have shown that the method of
sieving and washing gives slightly higher values for the percentage passing the
0,075mm sieve. This is because aggregations are disintegrated more effectively. This
method is, therefore, considered the more accurate of the two.

5.2 If a soil mortar analysis is required, the coarse sand fraction (2,0 - 0,425 mm)j the fine
sand fraction (0,425 - 0,075mm) and the fraction passing the 0,075 mm sieve are
expressed as percentages of the soil mortar (i.e. material passing the 2,0mm sieve as
determined in Method A1).
The percentages are calculated as follows:
Percentage coarse sand (2,0 mm - 0,425 mm) =

Sm − Sf
x100
Sm
Percentage fine sand (0,425 mm - 0,075 mm) =

Sf − P
x100
Sm
Percentage material - 0,075 mm =
P
x100
Sm
where

Sm = percentage soil mortar as determined in Method A1

Sf = percentage soil fines as determined in Method A1

 P = percentage passing the 0,075 mm sieve in the total sample

5.3 The fine sand fraction (0,425 mm - 0,075 mm) can also be subdivided, if required, by
sieving the oven-dried material retained on the 0,075 mm sieve through the 0,250 mm
and 0,150 mm sieves. The material retained on each of these sieves is then weighed
and the quantity expressed as a percentage of the soil mortar (i.e. material passing the
2,0 mm sieve) as follows:

Percentage coarse fine sand (0,425 mm - 0,250 mm) =

W 1 xSf
Sm
Percentage medium fine sand (0,250 mm - 0.150mm) =

W 2 xSf
Sm
Percentage fine fine sand (0,150 mm - 0,075 mm) =
W 3 xSf
Sm
where

W1 = mass of fraction retained on the 0,250 mm sieve per 100 gram of soil fines
W2 = mass of fraction retained on the 0,150 mm sieve per 100 gram of soil fines
W3 = mass of fraction retained on the 0,075 mm sieve per 100 gram of soil fines
Sf = percentage soil fines as determined in Method A1.
Sm = percentage soil mortar as determined in Method A1

REFERENCES

ASTM Designation D422 - 63

AASHTO Designation T88 - 57
 METHOD A6

THE DETERMINATION OF THE GRAIN SIZE DISTRIBUTION IN SOILS BY MEANS

OF A HYDROMETER

SCOPE

This method covers the quantitative determination of the distribution of particle sizes
in soils. The distribution of particles sizes larger than 0,075 mm is determined by
sieving, while the distribution of particle sizes smaller than 0,075mm is determined by
a sedimentation process, based on Stokes' law defined here under, using a specially
calibrated hydrometer. This method does not give absolute results, but gives data
which are comparable and consistent if the method is followed in detail (see 5.1 ).

Stokes' law:

Stokes' law states that : Maximum grain diameter can be determined by :

300nL
d=
980( G − G1) T
where

n= viscosity of the suspending medium in Pascal-seconds. The viscosity of

distilled water at 20 • C is 0,001005 Pa.s.
L= the distance in centimetre through which the grains settle in a period of time,
T.
T= time in minutes, period of sedimentation
G= relative density of soil particles
G1 = relative density of suspending medium (which is 0,99823 tor water at 20 • C)

2 APPARATUS

2.1 A balance to weigh up to 200gram, accurate to 0,1 gram.

2.2 A canning lar, wide mouth, about 1000 ml capacity.

2.3 A Bouyoucos cylinder, graduated at 1130 and 1205 ml.

2.4 A Bouyoucos hydrometer (ASTM 152 H).

2.5 A dispersing apparatus with paddle as shown in Figure A6/l. The paddle is anached to
a 120 to 150 mm shaft which is rotated (by an electric motor) at a rate of 1450
revolutions per minute. If such a disperser is not available an egg whisk with 4 vanes
may be used.

2.6 A tablespoon.
2.7 A stop-watch.

2.8 A water-bath suitably lined or fitted with a thermostat unit to maintain a constant
temperature of 20 + 1 • C.

2.9 A wash-bottle.

2.10 A dish or small bssin + 150 mm diameter.

2.11 A thermometer measuring 0-50• C graduated in 0 2 • C.

2.12 A pipette 10 ml capacity.

2.13 Sodium silicate solution to be prepared as follows:

Dissolve sodium silicate (preferably the waterglass solution) in distilled water until
the solution gives a reading of 36 at 20 • C on the standard soil hydromebr. Filter the
solution.

2.14 Sodium oxalate solution - this consists of a filtered saturated solution of sodium
oxalate.

3 METHOD

3.1 Preparation of sample

100 gram accurate to 01gram (50 gram for samples containing a reasonably high
percentage of the silt and clay fractions) of the soil fines as prepared in accordance
with Method A1 is weighed out. The weighed sample is transferred to a canning jar
and about 400 ml of distilled water (see 5.2) and 5 ml each of the sodium oxalate and
sodium silicate solutions (see 5.3) are added. The soil water mixture is stirred well
with a glass rod and left to stand tor at least two hours but preferably overnight.
After the mixture has been allowed to stand, it is dispersed tor 15 minutes with the
standard dispersing paddle or five minutes with the egg whisk. The paddle is washed
clean with distilled water allowing the wash water to run into the container with
suspension.

3.2 Filling the cylinder and correcting the temperature.

The suspension is poured into the Bouyoucos cylinder and the canning jar is rinsed
with distilled water from the wash-bottle. All the suspension is transferred
quantitatively to the cylinder. The cylinder is then filied with distilled water to the
1205 ml mark (1 130 for a 50 gram sample) with the hydrometer inside.
The hydrometer is removed, the cylinder inverted a few times, using the palm of the
one hand as a stopper over the mouth of the cylinder to ensure that the temperature is
uniform throughout. It is then placed in the thermostat bath which is kept as near to 20
• C as possible. When the contents of the cylinder are approximately at 20 • C (see
5.4), the cylinder is again shaken end over end until a homogenous suspension is
obtained. The cylinder is returned to the water-bath and the time recorded. The water
 in the bath should come to almost the top of the contents of the cylinder but should
not be too high as it will then not be possible to read the hydrometer.

3.3 Hydrometer readings

Sixty minutes after the cylinder has been placed in the bath, the hydrometer is inserted
and a reading is taken to the nearest 0,5. The temperature of the contents is also
determined. The hydrometer is removed and the cylinder is shaken again as previously
described. It is placed on a table and the stop-watch started. At about 20 seconds the
hydrometer is inserted and a reading taken at 40 seconds.
An 18-second reading, if required, can also be taken in the same way as the 40-second
reading, except that the hydrometer is inserted at about 10 seconds (see 5.5).
The temperature measured for the one hour reading is also taken as the temperature
for the 40 and 18-second readings, provided the readings are taken immediately one
after the other.
The hydrometer readings, taken to the nearest 0,5, and the temperature should be
recorded on any suitable data sheet.

4 CALCULATIONS

4.1 The following table gives the maximum diameter of the particles which are accounted
tor by the hydrometer after different time intervals (see 5.6).

Hydrometer Readings Maximum diameter of Common term

at particles in mm’s
18 seconds 0.075 Material passing the 0.075
sieve
40 seconds 0.05 Silt & Clay
1 hour 0.005 Clay

4.2 The following corrections should be applied to the hydrometer readings:

4.2.1 If the temperature of the suspension at the time of the hydrometer reading is not 20
• C, a correction should be made to the reading in accordance with the following table:

Temperature in Degrees Celsius Correction

18.2 - 18.4 -0.6
18.5 - 18.7 -0.5
18.8 - 19.0 -0.4
19.1 - 19.3 -0.3
19.4 - 19.5 -0.2
 19.6 - 19.8 -0.1
19.9 - 20.1 0.0
20.2 - 20.4 +0.1
20.5 - 20.6 _0.2
20.7 - 20.9 +0.3
21.0 - 21.2 +0.4
21.3 - 21.5 +0.5
21.6 - 21.8 +0.6

4.2.2 If a 50 gram sample is used, the readings must be doubled after the correction for
temperature has been made. The rest of the calculations are then the same as set out
below.

4.3 The material smaller than 0,075mm (18-second reading) is always expressed as a
percentage of the total sample. The material smaller than 0,05 mm is expressed as a
percentage of the total sample and also as a percentage of the soil mortar (i.e. the
traction passing the 2,0mm sieve). The material smaller than 0,005 mm is only
expressed as a percentage of the soil mortar.

4.4 The soil mortar is divided into four fractions viz.:

Coarse sand: passing 2,0 and retained on 0,425 mm sieve
Fine sand: passing 0,425 mm and retained on 0,05 mm sieve
Silt: passing 0,05 and retained on 0,005 mm sieve
Clay: passing 0,005 mm sieve
These fractions are expressed as percentages of the soil mortar and are calculated as
follows:

4.4.1 Coarse sand

(Sm − Sf )
P1 = x100
Sm
where

P1 = percentage coarse sand in the soil mortar

Sm = percentage soil mortar in total sample (determined in Method A1 )
Sf = percentage soil fines in total sample (determined in Method A1)

4.4.2 Fine sand

The percentage fine sand in the soil fines is obtained by subtracting the reading
obtained with the hydrometer at 40seconds from 100 (the mass of soil fines used for
hydrometer analysis). The percentage of tine sand in the soil mortar can thus be
 calculated as follows:

Sf (100 − F )
P2 =
Sm
where
P2 = percentage of fine sand in soil mortar
F = 40-second hydrometer reading

4.4.3 Silt

The percentage of silt in the soil fines is obtained by subtracting the one-hour
hydrometer reading trom the 40-second reading and the percentage of silt in the soil
mortar can then be calculated as follows:

Sf ( F − C )
P3 =
Sm
where

P3 = percentage silt in the soil mortar

C = one-hour hydrometer reading

4.4.4 Clay
The percentage of clay in the soil mortar can be calculated trom:

CxSf
P4 =
Sm
where

P4 = percentage of clay in the soil mortar

4.5 Percentage of silt plus clay in the total sample

This can be calculated from:

Sf
P5 = Fx
100
where

P5 = percentage silt plus clay in total sample

4.6 Percentage passing the 0,075mm sieve in the total sample

This can be calculated from:

Sf
P 6 = Ex
100
where

P6 = percentage smaller than 0,075 mm

E = 18-second hydrometer reading

The calculations should be done to the nearest 0,1 and the percentage passing the
0,075 mm sieve and the soil mortar analysis reported on the A6/1 (or similar) Form.

5 NOTES

5.1 If absolute results are required the method given in ASTM Designation D442 should
be used.

5.2 Demineralised water or clean rain-water and sometimes even tap water may be used
instead of distilled water. If any water other than distilled or demineralised water is
used it is necessary to carry out comparative tests with distilled water.

5.3 If the dispersing agents are being used up regularly and rapidly equal volumes of each
may be premixed and 10ml of the mixture added instead of 5 ml of each agent.

5.4 A skilled operator will be able to make up the suspension in the cylinder so that the
temperature is very near to the required 20 • C by using warm water and/or cold water
when filling up the cylinder. It will then not be necessary to leave the cylinder with
suspension in the water bath to acquire the right temperature. This procedure is in fact
commonly followed.
In this respect, it must be emphasized, however, that if the temperature in the cylinder
is slightly high, it is unsound practice to make the water bath slightly colder (or vice
versa) in order to obtain more or less the correct temperature in the cylinder when the
one-hour reading is taken. This means that the temperature in the cylinder is never
constant during the settlement period. Furthermore, if the correct temperature cannot
be obtained, it is better theoretically to have a slightly high temperature than a slightly
low temperature.

5.5 The percentage passing the 0,075mm sieve which is obtained from the 18-second
reading, can also be determined by wet sieving. The procedure is fully described in
Method A5, which is considered to be a more accurate method. In case of dispute,
Method A5 shall be regarded as the referee method.

5.6 The maximum particle sizes after 40 seconds and one hour are those given by
Bouyoucos in his paper. The maximum particle size after 18 seconds has been
obtained from Stokes' equations, assuming average test conditions as far as L and G
are concerned.
5.7 The hydrometer method for determining particle size distribution as detailed above
does not give absolute results, but does give data which are comparable and, provided
the method is followed in detail, these data are consistent. The method is rapid and the
calculations have been reduced to a minimum.

5.8 The hydrometer should be kept in a soap solutions (of about 10%) when not in use, as
this removes all traces of grease which may be present through handling and which
will result in wrong readings.
5.9 Calcareous materials and some materials containing soluble salts cannot always be
tested, as the suspension becomes flocculated. If excessive flocculation occurs, the
one-hour readings are not taken. Only the 40-second readings are taken.

REFERENCES

AASHTO Designation T88-51

ASTM Designation D422~3
Bouyoucos, G.J. Directions for making mechanical analysis of soils by the hydrometer
method. Soil Science Vol. 42. 3 September 1936.
 METHOD A7

THE DETERMINATION OF THE MAXIMUM DRY DENSITY AND OPTIMUM

MOISTURE CONTENT OF GRAVEL, SOIL AND SAND

SCOPE

The maximum dry density and optimum moisture content, as defined below, is
determined by establishing the moisture-density relationship of the material when
prepared and compacted at the Modified AASHTO compaction effort at different
moisture contents.

Definition

Maximum density: The maximum density of a material for a specific compactive effort
is the highest density obtainable when the compaction is carried out on the material
at varied moisture contents.
Optimum moisture content: The optimum moisture content for a specific compactive
effort is the moisture content at which the maximum density is obtained.

2 APPARATUS

2.1 A 152,4 ± 0,5mm diameter mould, 152,4 ± 1 mm high, with detachable collar, base
plate and a 25,4 ±1 mm thick spacer plate with the proviso that with the spacer plate
inside the mould the effective depth of the mould shall be 127 ± 1 mm. The spacer
plate should be firmly attached to the base plate (Figure A7/l). The compaction base
plate should be bolted onto a concrete block ot at least 150mm thick and weighing at
least 200 kg.

2.2 A 4,536 kg ± 20 gram tamper with a 50,8 ±1,0 mm diameter face and with a sheath to
give a 457,2 ± 2 mm drop.

2.3 A steel straight-edge, about 300 mm in length and having one bevelled edge.

2.4 A riffler.

2.5 A balance to weigh up to 15 kg, accurate to 5 gram.

2.6 A balance to weigh up to 2 kg, accurate to 0,1 gram.

2.7 A steel tamper or a small laboratory crusher.

2.8 Sieves: 19.0 mm and 4,75 mm complying with SABS 197.

2.9 An iron mortar and pestle and a rubber-tipped Pestle.

2.10 Basins, approximately 350 mm in diameter.

2.11 A mixing basin, approximately 500 mm in diameter.

2.12 A garden trowel.

2.13 A spatula.

2.14 Suitable containers to hold about 1 000gram of material for the determination of
moisture contents.

2.15 A drying oven, thermostatically controlled and capable of maintaining a temperature

of 105 to 110 • C.

2.16 Measuring cylinders, 1000 ml and 500 ml capacity.

2.17 A water spray or sprinkler.

2.18 Filter paper, 150 mm rounds.

2.19 A sample extruder, i.e. a jack, lever, frame or other device adapted for the purpose of
extruding compacted specimens from the mould (optional).

For calibrating the mould:

2.20 A 180 mm x 180 mm glass plate approximately 7 mm thick.

2.21 Lubricating grease.

2.22 A 5 ml pipette.

2.23 A thermometer measuring 0 to 50 • C.

3 METHOD

3.1 Preparation

An adequate quantity of the air-dried sample is sieved through a 1gram,0 mm sieve.

The aggregate retained on the 1gram,0 mm sieve is crushed lightly by means of a steel
tamper (or laboratory crusher) to pass the 19,0 mm sieve and added to the portion
passing the sieve. Care should be taken that the aggregate is not crushed unnecessarily
small. If the material contains soil aggregations, these should be disintegrated as finely
as possible with a mortar and pestle with-out reducing the natural size of the
individual particles (see 5.1).
Mix the material thoroughly and quarter out a specimen of approximately 35 kg,
which in turn is. again quartered so as to obtain five basins of exactly similar material.
This is best done by dividing the sample into 16 equal portions by means of the riffler
and using three portions, i.e. 3/16 of the sample, for the debrmination of one point on
the moisture-density relationship curve. The one portion which is surplus may be
discarded. The mass of the material in each of the five basins should be between 6 and
7 kg - the higher mass to be used for material with a high relative density. For
convenience the mass in the five basins may be made the same.
3.2 Mixing

Weigh the sample in each basin accurate to the nearest 5 gram and transfer it to the
mixing basin.
A measured volume of water is placed in the spray-can or sprinkler and added slowly
to the material in the basin. While adding the water, the material should be mixed
continuously with a trowel. Water is added until, in the opinion of the operator, the
optimum moisture content is reached (see 5.2). The mixing of the moist material is
continued for another few minutes. The water remaining in the spray-can or sprinkler
is measured in order to obtain the quantity actually added, which is then expressed as
a percentage of the air-dried material. The moist material should now be covered with
a damp sack to prevent evaporation and allowed to stand for half an hour so that the
moisture may become evenly distributed throughout. (In the meantime another basin
of material may be treated by mixing at a moisture content of one per cent lower or
hi~her than the first moisture content.) If the material has been moistened beforehand
and allowed to soak overnight, as described in Method A8, it is not necessary to wait
for halt an hour and compaction may there to recommence immediately after the water
has been mixed in.

3.3 Preparation of the mould

The volume of the mould is determined as set out in 5.3.

The clean, dry mould is weighed accurate to the nearest 5 gram and assembled on the
base plate with the spacer plate. Two 150mm rounds of filter paper are placed on the
spacer plate to prevent the material trom sticking to the plate. The collar is then fitted
to the mould.

3.4 Compaction

The moist material is now mixed again and about 1,000gram of material is weighed
out and transferred to the mould. The surface of the soil is levelled by hand by
pressing down and light tamping, and tamped 55 times with a 4,536 kg tamper which
is dropped exactiy 457,2 mm. The blows must be dhtrlbuted over the whole layer in
five cycles ot 11 blows each. In each cycle eight blows are applied to the outside
circumference and three blows round the centre (see 5.4). When the tamper is raised,
the operator should ensure that the guide sheath is resting on the soll and that the
tamper is right at the top of the sheath betore the tamper is dropped. The fall of the
tamper should be pertectly free. The operator should also be aware that the tamping
face of the tamper is kept clean and that no cake of material is formed on the face.
After tamping the first layer, the depth of the surface of the tamped material below the
top of the mould, without the collar, is measured and should be between grams and 96
grams and 99 mm. If the depth is not correct, the mass of moist material weighed out
for the next layer should be increased or decreased slightly. Four more layers of
material should be tamped in in exactly the same manner and each layer should be
slightly more than 25 mm but not more than 30mm thick. The depths from the top of
the mould to the surfaces of the compacted layers should preferably be between the
following limits:
 1st layer : 96 to 99mm
2nd layer : 68 to 71 mm
3rd layer : 43 to 46 mm
4th layer : 15 to 20 mm

After the compaction of the 5th layer, the surface of the material should be between 5
and 15 mm above the top of the mould without the collar.

3.5 Determination of moisture content

After the second layer has been compacted, a representative sample is taken from the
material in the basin and placed in a suitable container to determine the moisture
content.
The sample should be between 500 and 1000 gram. The more coarsely graded the
material, the larger the sample. The moist sample is weighed immediately, accurate to
the nearest 0.1gram and dried to constant mass in an oven at 105 to 110 • C. The
moisture content is determined to the nearest 0,1 per cent. The results are recorded on
Form A7/1 or similar.

3.6 Removal of excess material

The material which adheres to the collar of the mould is gently eased trom the collar
with a spatula. The collar is turned round gently and removed without disturbing the
projecting layer of material. The projecting material is cut off carefully with a steel
straight-edge (a little at a time) until the material is level with the top of the mould.
Loose pebbles should be pressed in with the flat of the straight-edge. The excess
material which was cut ott, and, if required, also the remaining material in the mixing
basin, is sieved rapidly through a 4,75 mm sieve. The material passing the sieve is
spread over the surface of the material in the mould and tapped lightly with the flat of
the straight-edge and cut off. If necessary, this process is repeated so as to obtain an
even and compact surface. Where pebbles project slightly above the top of the mould,
these should be pressed in below the level of the mould.
The surface of the moulded material is inspected. If it is hard and unyielding to
pressure from the thumb it is probable that the optimum moisture content (o.m.c.) has
not been exceeded. If, however, the material tends to be slightly spongy or yields
when pressed down by the thumb, then the o.m.c. has been exceeded .

3.7 Mass of mould

Remove the mould with compacted material from the base plate and weigh it
accurately to the nearest 5 gram.
The compacted material can now be removed from the mould with an extruder or
other suitable means.

3.8 Establishing additional points for the molsture-density relationship curve

The above represents the determination of one point on the moisture-density

relationship curve and additional points have still to be obtained. The whole procedure
is, therefore, carried out on each of the other four basins of prepared material at
 various moisture contents. After the second compaction the approximate dry density
for the two compaction’s is calculated, using an assumed moisture content which is
the percentage of water added plus the estimated moisture content of the air-dried
sample. The approximate dry densities are plotted against the assumed moisture
contents and the relative position of the two points will indicate the amount of water
to be added for the third point. After plotting the third point, the shape of the curve
will indicate the best moisture contents for the remaining points. If possible, at least
two points differing by about one per cent in moisture content should be obtained on
either side of the peak of the moisture-density curve and the last point should be taken
as near to the peak as possible unless one has already been obtained earlier near that
point.

4 CALCULATIONS

4.1 Calculate the moisture content of the material for each point to the nearest 0,1% as
follows:
a− b
d= x100
b− c
where

d = moisture content expressed as a percentage of the dry soil

a = mass of container and wet material
b = mass of container and dry material
c = mass of container only.

4.2 Calculate the dry density for each point to the nearest 1 kg/m3 as follows:
W 100
D= x x1000
d + 100 V
where

D = dry density in kg/m3.

W = mass of wet material in gram.
V = volume of mould in ml

As the volume (V) of the mould is a constant, the above formula can be simplified as
follows:
W
D= xF
d + 100
where

F (the factor of the mould)(see 5.3) = (100/V) x 1000

Calculate moisture content to the nearest first decimal figure and density to the nearest
whole number.
4.3 Moisture-density relationship

After the calculations have been completed the moisture contents are plotted
graphically against the respective dry densities (see appended Figure A7/ll). The peak
of the curve indicates the optimum moisture content and the maximum density of the
material when compacted under this particular effort.

4.4 Reporting of results

The maximum density shall be reported to the nearest whole number on forms such as
A10(a)/1 if the results are required for field densities, or on the A8/1 (or similar) Form
if required for CBR determinations (Method A8).
The optimum moisture content shall be reported to the nearest first decimal figure.

5 NOTES

5.1 In cases where the material contains soft and friable aggregate which will break up
during compaction, e.g. certain types of ferricrete, calcrete, soft sandstone, etc., such
aggregate should be disintegrated. The operator should use his discretion in borderline
cases and also as regards the extent to which particles should be disintegrated.

5.2 The material is at or near its optimum moisture content when it can be readily pressed
together by hand to form a lump that will not crumble. A spongy feeling is an
indcation that the moisture content exceeds optimum.

5.3 To determine the volume of the mould, both ends of the mould and the circumference
of the spacer plate are greased and the mould, spacer and base plate assembled. Any
excess grease which may be squeezed out between the mould and spacer plate is
removed. The assembled mould plus the 180 mm square glass plate is weighed. Water
is now poured into the mould and, when full, the glass plate is slid gently over the top
of the mould. Before the glass plate quite covers the mould, the final drops of water
are added by means of a pipette. When the container is covered fully by the glass
plate, no air bubbles should be entrapped under the plate. The mould with water and
glass plate are weighed and the mass of water in the mould is calculated. This
determination should be carried out at least in duplicate. The temperature of the water
is measured and the volume (V) as well as the factor (F) of the mould are obtained as
follows:

Mass of water in gram

V in ml =
RD of water at test temperature
and

100
F= x 1000
V
 Temp. °C RD of Water Temp. °C Rd of Water
15 0.99913 23 0.99756
16 0.99897 24 0.99732
17 0.99880 25 0.99707
18 0.99862 26 0.99681
19 0.99843 27 0.99654
20 0.99823 28 0.99626
21 0.99802 29 0.99597
22 0.99780 30 0.99567

5.4 The material can also be compacted with a mechanical tamping machine of
satisfactory design. At least ten comparative tests should be carried out on different
material and for 90 per cent of the results, the densities should not differ by more than
16 kg/m3 from those obtained with the hand tamper.

5.5 In following this method, the operator should ensure that the optimum obtained is the
true optimum as some materials, particularly sandy and silty materials, often have a
false optimum at a lower moisture content than the true optimum. The plastic limit
can be used as a gauge for the optimum moisture content, as in many cases the
optimum moisture content is approximately two per cent lower than the plastic limit.
In estimating the optimum moisture content from the plastic limit, it should be
remembered that the percentage of material passing the 0,425 mm sieve must be
considered because the higher the percentage of this fraction, the more closely the
plastic limit and the optimum moisture content agree.

5.6 The maximum density and optimum moisture content can also be determined using
other compaction. efforts. The test procedure remains the same.
The following efforts are commonly used:

Mass of Tamper Drop in mm’s Blows per Layer Layers Description of

(Kg) effort

4.536 457.2 55 5 Mod. AASHTO

4.536 457.2 25 5 NRB

2.495 304.8 55 3 Standard Proctor

2.495 304.8 20 3 -

5.7 Once material has been compacted it should not be used for another compaction, i.e.
 fresh material should be used for every compaction. However, if for some reason the
field sample was too small for the usual five test points, or if additional test points are
required to obtain a satisfactory curve with a well-defined peak, the same material
may be used for another compaction.

5.8 Throughout the test the utmost care must be exercised to keep all the following
variables as constant as possible:

(a) Grading of material

(b) Uniform mixing-in of water
(c) Time of standing before compaction
(d) Evaporation of water during test
(e) Height of fall of tamper
(f) Free fall of tamper
(g) Distribution of tamper blows
(h) Thickness of successive layers
(i) Final layer to project between 5 and 15 mm above the top of the mould
(j) Finishing off of the top surface.

5.9 Although it is not necessary to determine the volume and the mass of the mould for
each test, these should, nevertheless, be checked regularly.

REFERENCES

AASHTO Designation T180-61

ASTM Designation D1557-70.
 METHOD A8

THE DETERMINATION OF THE CALIFORNIA BEARING RATIO OF UNTREATED

SOILS AND GRAVELS

1. SCOPE

The California Bearing Ratio (CBR) of a material as defined below, is determined by

measuring the load required to allow a standard piston to penetrate the surface of a
material compacted according to Method A7. The determination of the CBR-density
relationship and swell of the material is also covered.

Definition

The California Bearing Ratio of a material is the load in Newtons, expressed as a

percentage of California standard values, required to allow a circular piston of 1
935mm2 to penetrate the surface of a compacted material at a rate of 1,27 mm per
minute to depths of 2,54, 5,08 and 7,62 mm. The California standard values for these
depths are 13,344, 20,016 and 25,354 kN respectively.

2 APPARATUS

2.1 Moulds, 152,4 ± 0,5 mm in diameter and 152,4 ± 1 mm high, detachable collar, a base
plate, 25,4 ±1 mm spacer plate and perforated soaking base plates (see Method A7,
Section 2.1)(Figure A7/l).

2.2 A 4,536 kg ± 20 gram tamper with a 50,8 ±1,0 mm diameter face and with a sheath to
give a 467,2 ± 2 mm drop.

2.3 A 2,495 kg ± 10 gram tamper with a 50,8 ± 1,0 mm diameter face and with a sheath to
give a 304,8 ± 2 mm drop.

2.4 Annular 4,536 kg ± 50 9 surcharge weights for use during soaking or alternatively a
combined unit for items 2.4 and 2.6, i.e. a surcharge weight of 5,56 kg with adjustable
stem (Figure A8/ll).

2.5 An annular 5,56 kg ± 50 gram surcharge weight for use during penetration.

2.6 1,024 kg ± 10 gram perforated plates with adjustable stems.

2.7 A steel straight-edge, approximately 300 mm in length and having one bevelled edge.

2.8 A tripod (Figure A8/ll).

2.9.1 Two dial gauges reading 0,01 mm with a range of 25 mm, one to be fitted on tripod
for measuring swell and one for measuring depth of penetration (see 5.1).

2.9.2 A dial gauge with 0,127mm divisions, range 25 mm and 1,27 mm per revolution for
measuring depth of penetration (see 5.1).
2.10 A compression testing machine with a capacity of at least 55 kN total load, recordable
to the nearest 50 N and capable of applying load at a rate of strain of 1,27 mm per
minute.

2.11 A metal circular piston with a diameter of 49.6 ± 0,5 mm and weighing 4,536 kg ± 50
gram, i.e. if not attached to the compression machine.

2.12 A stopwatch with 60 second dial.

2.13 A balance to weigh up to 15 kg, accurate to 5 gram.

2.14 A balance to weigh up to 2 kg, accurate to 0,1 gram.

2.15 Suitable containers to hold about 1000 gram material for determination of moisture
contents .

2.16 A drying oven, thermostatically controlled and capable of maintaining a temperature

of 105 to 110 • C.

2.17 Sieves - A 19,0 mm and 4,75 mm according to SABS 197.

2.18 A steel tamper or a small laboratory crusher.

2.19 A riffler.

2.20 An iron mortar and pestle and a rubber-tipped pestle.

2.21 A sample extruder, i.e. a jack, lever, frame, or other device adapted for the purpose of
extruding compacted specimens from the mould (optional).

2.22 Measuring cylinders,1000 ml and 500ml capacity.

2.23 A water-spray or sprinkler.

2.24 Filter paper, 150 mm rounds.

2.25 Copper or brass gauze discs, about 30mesh and 170 mm diameter.

2.26 A galvanized iron mixing bath, about 450 mm x 650 mm x 200 mm deep.

2.27 A garden trowel.

2.28 A spatula.

2.29 An air-tight container, about 18 litre capacity.

2.30 A soaking bath, about 300 mm deep. (for calibrating the moulds)

2.31 A 180 mm x 180 mm glass plate, ± 7 mm thick.

2.32 Lubricating grease.

2.33 A 5 ml pipette.

2.34 A thermometer, measuring 0 - 50 • C.

3 METHOD

3.1 Preparation

The material is prepared as set out in Method A7, i.e. all aggregate retained on the
19,0mm sieve is crushed lightly to pass that sieve, and if the sample contains soil
aggregations, these should be disintegrated. Approximately 25 kg of the thoroughly
mixed material is now divided out. I n order to ensure that the material used for this
test is exactly similar to that used for the determination of the moisture-density
relationship, the preparation and division for the two tests are carried out at the same
time as one operation (see 5.2).

3.2 Determination of hygroscopic moisture content

Two representative samples are taken and placed in suitable containers to determine
the moisture content. The samples should be between 500 and 1 000 9. The more
coarsely graded the material, the larger the samples. The samples are weighed
immediately and dried to constant mass in an oven at 105 to 110• C. The average
moisture content is determined to the nearest 0,1 per cent (see 5.3). Immediately after
the moisture content samples have been taken, the material is transferred to an
air-tight container

3.3 Admixture of water

The moulding moisture content should be the optimum moisture content (± 0,3 per
cent) as determined in accordance with Method A7. Therefore, the additional water to
be admixed is the difference between the optimum and the hygroscopic moisture
content. After the latter has been determined the material in the airtight tin is weighed
and transferred to the mixing bath. The required amount of water is calculated,
measured out and added slowly by means of the spray can or sprinklers (see 5.4).
While adding the water, the material should be mixed continuously with a trowel. The
moist material is now covered with a damp sack to prevent evaporation and allowed
to stand for at least half an hour so that the moisture may become evenly distributed
throughout. After a quick rem ix, a representative sample is taken for the
determination of the moisture content and the moist material is then again transferred
to the airtight tin, where it remains until the result of the moisture determination is
available, usually overnight. If the moisture content is more than 0,3 per cent above
the optimum moisture content, the whole sample is remixed in the bath, allowing the
moist material to dry slightly by evaporation. The operator will have to use his
discretion as to how long the material should be mixed. If the moisture content is
more than 0,3 per cent below the optimum moisture content, the calculated additional
water is admixed. After either of these adjustments has been made, another moisture
content is determined, the moist material in the air-tight tin again being stored until
 the result is available. No further adjustment ought to be necessary if the operator is
reasonably experienced.

N.B. - The mixing of the wet material in order to ensure that it is homogenous and at
the right moisture content is most important. When mixing, the moist material should
be kept loose and on no account should the clayey soil fines be allowed to form clods.
Care should also be exercised to ensu re that representative samples are taken for
moisture content determinations.

3.4 Preparation of moulds

The volumes of three moulds are determined as set out in Method A7, Section 5.3.
The clean dry moulds are then weighed and one is assembled ready for tamping. Two
150 mm rounds of filter paper are placed on the spacer plate and the collar is fitted to
the mould.

3.5 Compaction

The moist material (at the specified moisture content) is transferred from the tin to
the mixing bath. It is thoroughly but rapidly mixed and then covered with a damp
sack, which should be kept over the material until the compaction is completed so as
to keep the moisture content as constant as possible.
The first mould is now tamped full of material, the excess material removed and only
the mould with the material weighed, as described in Method A7. A representative
sample for moisture content is now taken from the mixing bath.
The second mould is then assembled immediately and tamped full of material in a
similar manner, except that only 25 blows of the 4,536 kg tamper are applied to each
layer. It is probable that for each layer to be compacted, less material will have to be
weighed off than in the case of the higher compactive effort. The moulded material is
finished off and weighed and another representative sample for moisture content is
taken from the mixing bath.
The third mould is then prepared and tamped full of material, but in th is case only
three layers of material are compacted and on each layer 55 blows of the 2,495 kg
tamper are applied. As with the other compactive efforts, between 5 mm to 15 mm of
material should project above the top of the mould, and hence, each layer should be
approximately 46 mm in thickness. The moulded material is again finished off and
weighed.
The compactive efforts used for the three moulds are summarized as follows:

(a) 4,536 kg tamper, 457,2 mm drop, five layers and 55 blows per layer.
(b) 4,536 kg tamper, 457,2 mm drop, five layers and 25 blows per layer.
(c) 2,495 kg tamper, 304,8 mm drop, three layers and 55 blows per layer.

The average of the two moisture content determinations, taken after the compaction of
the first and second moulds, is taken as the moulding moisture content for all three
moulds.
3.6 Soaking

Three perforated soaking base plates are placed ready with a wire gauze disc over the
perforations and a 150 mm round of filter paper on top of the gauze. Each mould is
then placed on the filter paper with the finished off surface facing downwards and
screwed down tightly onto the soaking plate. The surface of the moulded material
which was against the spacer plate, and on which there is a round of filter paper,
should be facing upwards.
A perforated plate with adjustable stern is then placed on top of the filter paper on the
surface of the material and a 4,536 kg surcharge weight is placed carefully on top of
the plate. The whole assembly is then transferred to an empty soaking bath. The tripod
with the dial gauge is then placed on the mould with the rear leg on a mark on the rim
of the mould so that the same position is used for subsequent readings of the swell.
The stem of the perforated plate is adjusted so that the dial gauge reads 1 mm. After
removal of the tripod and dial gauge, the bath is filled with water to a depth of about
12 mm above the top of the mould. To ensure that the water has free access to the
bottom of the material in the mould, suitable strips are fitted to the bottom of the bath,
or, alternatively, a layer of small stone chippings is placed in the bath. The mould with
material is allowed to soak for four days, and readings with the dial gauge should, if
possible, be taken each day.

3.7 Draining after soaking

After four days' soaking, the mould, with perforated plate, etc., is removed from the
water. The water is poured out by holding the mould in a slanting downward position
and holding the perforated plate and soaking weight in position. It is held like this for
about one minute and then returned to its normal position and allowed to drain for 15
minutes on a grid or on a layer of chippings. The perforated plate with stem and the
soaking weight are removed carefully.

N.B. - In all handling of the moulded material care should be exercised not to jar the
material.

3.8 Penetration

The mould with material, still screwed down on the soaking plate, is placed in the
press and the 5,56 kg surcharge weight is placed carefully on top of the material as
centrally as possible. The penetration piston is seated on the surface of the material
through the centre of the annular weight (see 5.5). The depth gauge is fitted in such a
manner that the depth of penetration of the piston into the material can be measured.
The speed of penetration is determined by means of the stop-watch and it is, therefore,
desirable to have it mounted adjacent to the dial gauge, with the two zeros at the top
of the dials. After setting the depth gauge to zero, the load is applied at a uniform rate
of penetration of 1,27 mm per minute. Load readings are taken every 0,635 mm
penetration as recorded on the depth gauge. The piston is allowed to penetrate 9,0 mm
or slightly more (see 5.6). Having a depth gauge registering 1,27 mm per revolution,
and a stop-watch with a 60-second dial, means that the hands of the gauge and the
stop-watch should move round together (see 5.1).
4 CALCULATIONS

4.1 Moisture Content (per cent)

4.1.1 The hygroscopic moisture content, the check moisture contents after admixing of
water and the moulding moisture content are calculated as set out in Method A7.

4.2 Amount of water to be admixed

z( y − x )
W=
100 + x
where

W = amount of water to be admixed

x = hygroscopic moisture content.
y = required (optimum) moisture content.
z = mass of air-dried test sample.

4.3 Dry density of moulded material (kg/m3)

Using the moulding moisture content, the dry density of the moulded material is
calculated as set out in Method A7.

4.4 Swell (per cent)

( k − L)
S= x 100
127
where

S = swell expressed as a percentage of the height of the moulded material before

soaking, i.e. 127mm
k = dial gauge reading after four days' soaking
L = dial gauge reading before soaking

The swell is reported to the nearest first decimal point on the A8/1 or similar form

4.5 California Bearing Ratio

For each specimen the stress-strain curve is drawn on a natural scale, i.e. the load
readings are plotted against the depth of penetration (see appended example, Figure
A8/l). In some cases the curve will have a concave downward shape, varying from an
almost straight line relationship to a curve in which the rate of increase in the load
readings decreases with the depth of penetration. However, many curves in the initial
stages have a concave upwards shape, and in order to obtain true stress-strain
relationships, such curves should be corrected by extending the straight line portion of
the curve downwards until it intersects the abscissa. The point of intersection is then
taken as the zero depth of penetration.
 Using this new zero, the load is read off at 2,54 mm, 5,08 mm and 7,62 mm
penetration. The readings for the above depths of penetration are then expressed as a
percentage of the California standard for that penetration, viz.

Penetration California Standard

Millimetres kNewtons
2.54 13.344
5.08 20.016
7.62 25.354

This percentage is called the California Bearing Ratio (CBR) at the particular depth of
penetration. The CBR at 2,54 mm penetration is generally used for assessing the
quality of materials.
All calculations should be carried out to the first decimal figure except for the quantity
of water to be added which is calculated to the nearest gram or ml.

4.6 CBR-Density Relationship

In order to obtain the relationship between CBR and dry density, the CBR at 2,54 mm
penetration is plotted on a logarithmic scale against the dry density on a natural scale
for the three compactive efforts used, on Form A8/4. The best fit line of the three
points is an isoline of moulding moisture content, i.e. the moisture content is the same
for the three points. The design CBR can thus be obtained at the desired percentage of
the maximum dry density--normally the specified minimum percentage compaction.
The results are recorded on the A8/2 or similar Form.

5 NOTES

5.1 The 0,01 mm gauge may be used to measure the depth of penetration and the 0,127
mm gauge to control the rate of penetration, as described in 3.8. As an alternative, the
0,127 mm gauge may also be used to measure the depth of penetration and load
readings may be taken every 0,635 mm penetration, i.e. at the 'bottom' and 'top'
position of the gauge.

5.2 In view of the fact that the optimum moisture content has to be determined (Method
A7) before the CBR test can be carried out, the first part of the procedure (3.1 to 3.5)
can be adapted as follows:

5.2.1 Preparation - After a sufficiently large sample for the moisture-density and CBR test
has been prepared to pass the 19,0 mm sieve, the material is moistened to about three
per cent below optimum moisture content and mixed thoroughly. The whole sample is
then transferred to air-tight tins and stored at least overnight. This will allow the
moisture to become evenly distributed which is a desirable condition.
The material is then quartered so as to obtain eight portions of equal mass (6 - 7 kg is
required per portion). Five portions are used for the moisture-density test and are kept
under damp sacks to avoid loss of moisture. The other three portions may be returned
 to air-tight tins.

5.2.2 Hygroscopic moisture - The determination of this is no longer necessary.

5.2.3 Admixture of water- The optimum moisture content for the dry density can be
obtained by plotting the wet density against an assumed moisture content (which is the
estimated moisture content plus the nominal percentage water added) on the Form
A8/3. It can also be obtained by plotting the computed dry density as described in
Method A7. As the moisture content of the material used for the moisture density test
and for the CBR test is the same (because of the moistening beforehand), the same
percentage water required to achieve optimum moisture content on the preliminary
moisture-density curve is added to the material. It is not necessary to carry out a check
moisture content with the view to adjusting the moisture content. After the mixing in
of the water, the material is kept under a damp sack, ready for compaction.

5.2.4 Compaction - Immediately prior to compaction a sample of ± 1 000 gram is taken to

determine the moisture content, and the material is compacted as described above.

5.3 If the duplicates of the moisture content determinations differ by more than 0,5 per
cent, another determination ought to be carried out and the average of the two with the
best agreement taken.

5.4 In calculating the required amount of water to be admixed, it is advisable to allow for
evaporation during mixing by adding slightly more water, say 0,1 to 0,3 per cent,
depending on weather conditions.

5.5 If the penetration piston is attached to the penetration machine, a load of 45 N should
be applied to the piston before the dial gauge is set at zero. This load is the same as
the weight of a loose piston and ensures that the piston is truly seated.

5.6 The penetration is continued beyond 7,62 mm to allow for an extension in the
stress-strain curve if a correction is required which results in a considerable shift of
the zero depth of penetration .

5.7 The material may also be compacted with a mechanical tamping machine, provided:

(a) that it complies with the requirement regarding density as set out in Method A7,
Section 5.4;

(b) that the tamper face is of the same shape and diameter as the hand tamper; and

(c) that the spacing of the blows is the same as with the hand tamper.
A tamping machine with a triangular tamper face is. therefore, not acceptable.

5.8 Particular care should be taken with materials which do not adhere to the side of the
mould and are liable to drop out of the mould if the mould is handled without the base
plate. In this instance, after the surface of the moulded material has been finished off,
a weighed soaking plate and wire gauze are inverted over the top of the moulded
material on which a round of filter paper has already been placed. The soaking plate is
 screwed into position and the whole assembly, including the base plate, is inverted.
The base plate with the spacer plate, is removed carefully and the mould, material and
soaking plate are weighed.

5.9 When granular materials are compacted, it will be found that the filter paper on the
spacer plate side of the moulded material becomes fractured and should be covered
with a fresh round of filter paper before placing the perforated plate with stem in
position.

5.10 Although it is not necessary to determine the volume and mass of the moulds for each
test, these should, nevertheless, be checked regularly.

REFERENCES

AASHTO Designation T193-63

ASTM Designation D1883-67
 METHOD A9

THE DETERMINATION OF THE CALIFORNIA BEARING RATIO OF

LIME-STABILIZED SOILS AND GRAVELS

1 SCOPE

This method describes the determination of the CBR (according to Method A8) of lime stabilized
soils and gravels and is also applied to obtain the lime content required to satisfy a
specified CBR.

2 APPARATUS
Same as Method A8.

3 METHOD

3.1 As for Method A8 with the following additions:

3.1.1 Three or more different lime contents at which the California Bearing Ratio (CBR) is to
be determined, are selected. These are usually in increments of two percentage points,
e.g. two, four and six per cent by mass of the total oven-dry raw material (two per cent
means two parts of lime to 100 parts oven-dry raw material. The calculated amount of
lime is admixed to the raw material after the material has been prepared and quartered
as described in Section 3.1 of Method A8 (see 5.1). The different quantities of lime are
added and the material brought to optimum moisture content. The material is left covered
under wet hessian bags tor tour hours plus-minus 15 minutes after the water and lime
have been mixed in prior to the compaction (see 5.2). The compaction must be completed
before six hours after the addition of the water.
3.1.2 After compaction as described in Section 3.5 of Method A8 (and before soaking), the
moulded specimens are damp-cured for seven days. This can be achieved by keeping
them under wet jute bags or in a moisture room if available at a temperature of 22 - 28
• C. After curing, the specimens are soaked and penetrated in exactly the same manner
as described in Sections 3.6 to 3.8 in Method A8 (see 5.2 and 5.3).

4 CALCULATIONS
As for Method A8.

5 NOTES

5.1 Unslaked or partially slaked lime has to be slaked before being used by mixing it with
1/3 of its mass in water in a suitable container and leaving overnight.

5.2 The test i s carried out at optimum moisture content (+ 0,3 %) of the stabilized mix.
This means that the optimum moisture content has to be determined in accordance
with Method A7, except that the required quantity of lime is added. The lime is added
separately to each portion quartered for the moisture-density test.

5.3 After penetration, the sample extruded from the mould is normally used for the
determination of the Atterberg constants.
 METHOD A10 (a)

THE DETERMINATION OF THE IN-PLACE DRY DENSITY OF SOIL OR GRAVEL BY

THE SAND REPLACEMENT METHOD

1 SCOPE

The in-place dry density of compacted soil or gravel, as defined below, is determined
by making a hole in a compacted layer and dividing the dry mass of the material
removed from the hole by the volume of the hole which is determined by filling the
hole with a fine sand of known density.

Definition

The in-place dry density of a material is the dry mass per unit volume of the material
and is expressed in kilograms per cubic metre.

2 APPARATUS

2.1 A density device complete with accessories, viz. pouring can, dolly, garden trowel,
chisel and three pegs (Figure A10 (a)/l)(see 5.1 and 5.2).

2.2 A balance with scoop to weigh up to 6 kg accurate to 19.

2.3 About 10 kg of specially prepared and calibrated sand (see 5.3 and 5.4).

2.4 A drying oven, thermostatically controlled and capable of maintaining a temperature

of 105 to 110 • C.
2.5 A small spade (border spade)

2.6 Paint brushes: a 100mm and a 20 to 30mm brush.

2.7 A road tamper.

2.8 A 2 kg hammer.

2.9 A pan, about 300 mm x 300 mm.

2.10 A tablespoon.

2.11 A 300 mm rule.

2.12 A suitable container such as a tin of about 5 l capacity. (For preparation and
calibration of sand:)

2.13 Sieves - A 0,425 mm and a 0,250 mm.

2.14 A basin, about 400 mm in diameter.

2.15 A cylindrical container with an internal diameter and height of 152, 0 +5 mm.

2.16 A 180 mm x 180 mm glass plate, about 7 mm thick.

2.17 Lubricating grease.

2.18 A 5 m~ pipette.

2.19 A thermometer, 0 to 50 • C.

3 METHOD

3.1 Preparatlon

The point at which the density is to be determined is selected and a fairly even surface
of about 300 mm by 300 mm is chosen. All loose material is brushed away to leave a
clean and firm surface. If the surface is very uneven, it can be levelled by carefully
skimming off the irregularities with the small border spade. The ring of the density
device is now placed on the surface of the material and the dolly is placed on the ring.
The three pegs are hammered in so that they just touch the rim of the ring (see 5.2).
By means of light blows with the road tamper on the dolly, the density ring is driven
down until the lower surface of the ring makes firm contact with the surface of the
material. If coarse aggregate near the surface prevents the penetration of the edge of
the ring, the ring should be shifted somewhat. Care should be taken to ensure that the
material in the centre of the ring is not loosened unduly. The three pegs are now
hammered in the rest of the way to hold the density ring firmly in place. The dolly is
removed and the material which may have been loosened in the ring is removed by
brushing it lightly into the trowel or spoon.

3.2 Volume of density ring and tunnel

The density funnel is now placed on the density ring so that the lower funnel rests in
the recess in the ring. The machined recess should be clean with no soil or grit on the
ring. The funneltap is closed. About 2 000 9 of the prepared and calibrated density
sand (which should be more than sufficient to fill the lower funnel and the volume of
the ring not occupied by the material) is accurately weighed and transferred to the
pouring can. It is then poured from the can into the upper funnel. When the sand level
comes to within about 25mm of the top of the upper funnel, the tap is opened
completely and the sand is allowed to flow into the lower funnel. In the meantime the
sand from the can is allowed to run out completely, keeping the sand level in the
upper funnel about 25 mm from the top. As soon as the sand in the upper funnel stops
flowing, the funnel tap should be closed carefully. On no account should the funnel be
jarred (see 5.1 ).
The density funnel is now removed and inverted over the scale scoop. The tap is
opened and the sand confined in the orifice in the tap is also returned to the scale
scoop. This sand is weighed and then returned to the bulk supply.
As much of the sand remaining in the density ring as can readily be transferred by
means of a trowel or tablespoon should be removed and placed in the square pan. Care
should be taken to see that the surface of the material is not touched. When most of
 the sand has been removed, the remainder is brushed into the centre of the ring. The
sand in the square pan is weighed and then returned to the bulk supply. The remainder
is collected with the material later on.

3.3 Removal of material from the density hole

The cold chisel is now used to loosen the material in the density ring and this,
including the sand remaining in the ring is removed by means of a trowel and a spoon
and placed in the square pan. When possible, only the chisel and the trowel are used to
loosen the material, except when the layer of material is extremely hard, in which case
a chisel and hammer may have to be used. The edge of the density ring should not be
used as a fulcrum when using the chisel. The procedure should be to push or tap the
chisel into the soil and then rotate the chisel by means of the cross handles and move
the chisel to and fro.
The sides of the density hole must be cut vertically and should extend to the full depth
of the layer to be tested, as otherwise a true average density is not obtained. If a stone
is removed from the wall of the hole, the cavity should be cut away at the top so that
there is o gradual slope down the wall to ensure that the sand, when poured, will fill
the hole completely. As far as possible the sides and bottom of the hole should not be
loosened, but maintained in their compacted state.
All loose material in the hole should be removed and collected in a container. Any
material which may have fallen on the density ring should be collected by means of a
brush and spoon. The average depth of the hole is then measured.

3.4 Volume of the density hole

The density funnel is replaced on the density ring which should be perfectly clean.
From 5 500 to 6 000 gram of density sand is weighed off accurately and transferred to
the pouring can. The density hole, etc., is now filled up in exactly the same manner as
was set out when filling the funnel and ring at the commencement of the test. It is
possible that the sand may be more than sufficient to fill the upper funnel as well, in
which case some sand will be left in the pouring can. The funnel-tap is then closed
carefully. The sand in the upper funnel, pouring can and also in the orifice of the tap is
returned to the scale scoop and weighed. This sand can then be remixed with the bulk
supply. The sand remaining in the hole and on the density ring is removed and placed
in the bag containing used sand, which must be prepared before being used again (see
5.5).

3.5 Drying and weighing of material

The material removed from the hole is taken to the laboratory where it is transferred to
a square pan and dried to constant mass in an oven at 105 to 110• C. The sand and
material should be weighed accurately to the nearest 1 gram.

4 CALCULATIONS
Dry density in kg/m3

Wf
D=
w
where

D = dry density in kg/m3.

W= mass of dry material from density hole in 9.
w= mass of sand to fill density hole in 9.
F = poured density of sand in kg/m3 (see 5.4)

W and w are obtained from the test data as follow:

X gram = mass of sand taken initially for filling the lower funnel and unoccupied part
of ring.

Y gram = mass of sand over after filling lower funnel and part of ring.

X - Y gram = mass of sand in lower funnel and unoccupied part of ring.

M gram = mass of sand removed from ring with trowel and tablespoon.

• (X - Y) - M gram = mass of residual sand left on surface of material and taken out
with density sample.

Z gram = mass of sand taken initially for filling the lower funnel, ring and density
hole.

d gram = mass of sand over from this operation.

• (Z- d) gram = mass of sand in lower funnel, ring and density hole

K gram = mass of dry material and residual sand.

• K - (X - Y - M) = W. (i.e. mass of dry material) and (Z - d) - (X - Y) = w (i.e. mass

of sand).

Finally, substitute the above values for W and w in the formula :

 [K − ( X − Y − M ) ]F
D= kg / cubic metre
( Z − d ) − ( X − y)

The calculation should be carried out to the nearest 1 kg/m3 and the dry density
reported to the nearest 5 kg/m3 on the A1 0(a)/1 (or a similar form).

5 NOTES

5.1 In windy conditions a density funnel with a metal cylinder welded to the top cone may
be used to protect the sand from the wind. The metal cylinder should be 300 mm long
and have the same inside diameter as the inside diameter of the top of the funnel. All
the sand is poured into the funnel before the top is opened. To eliminate any possible
errors it is also advisable to calibrate the density sand with the same funnel.

5.2 In granular material where the material may be disturbed when hammering in the
pegs, three metal bars, approximately 100 mm long, 20 mm wide and 5 mm thick with
a 12 mm hole drilled through one end may be welded, at an equal spacing, to the side
of the density ring. The pegs for holding the ring are then hammered through the holes
in the bars.

5.3 Preparation of sand

A large quantity of sand (preferably quartzitic sand) should be washed thoroughly

with water and the water decanted from time to time until clear. The sand is then dried
and sieved through 0,425 mm and 0,250mm sieves. The fraction passing the 0,425
mm sieve and retained on the 0,250mm sieve is used in the density determination.
Other closely graded fine sand may also be used, but it is desirable that not more than
one type of sand should be used on one job.

5.4 Calibration of the sand (determination of poured density)

5.4.1 Mass of sand required to fill funnel. - The density funnel is placed with the lower
funnel resting on the glass plate. The funnel lap is closed. About 17009 of the density
sand is accurately weighed and transferred to the pouring can. The sand is then poured
into the upper funnel. When the level of the sand comes within about 25 mm of the
top of the upper funnel, the funnel tap is opened, and the sand allowed to flow into the
lower funnel. The remainder of the sand in the can is poured into the upper funnel,
maintaining the level at about 25 mm from the top of the funnel. When the sand stops
flowing into the lower funnel, the tap is closed carefully without jarring the funnel.
The density funnel is removed and the sand remaining in the upper funnel including
the sand contained in the orifice in the tap is transferred to the scale scoop and
weighed. This determination should be carried out in triplicate and the average mass
of sand required to fill the lower funnel recorded.
5.4.2 Mass of Sand required to fill 152.4mm container and Funnel - The density funnel is
placed centrally over the 152,4 mm container so that the lower funnel is on top of the
container. The funnel tap is closed. About 60009 of the density sand is accurately
weighed and transferred to the pouring can. The sand is then poured into the upper
funnel. When the level of the sand comes within 25 mm of the top of the upper funnel,
the funnel tap is opened, and the sand allowed to flow into the lower funnel and the
container. The remainder of the sand from the can is poured into the upper funnel,
maintaining the level at about 25 mm from the top of the funnel. When the flow
through the tap ceases, the tap is closed carefully without jarring the funnel. The
funnel is then removed and the sand in the upperfunnel and tap orifice, as well as any
sand that may have remained in the pouring can, is transferred to the scale scoop and
weighed. This determination should be carried out in triplicate and the average mass
of sand required to fill the funnel and container is recorded.

5.4.3 Volume of the container. - A fairly thin film of lubricating grease is applied to the top
edge of the 152,4 mm container. The container and the glass plate are weighed. Water
is now poured into the container and, when f ull, the glass plate is slid gently over the
top of the container. Before the glass plate quite covers the container, the final drops
of water are added from a pipette. When the container is covered fully by the glass
plate, no air bubbles should be entrapped under the plate. The container with water
and glass plate are now weighed. The temperature of the water is measured. This
determination should also be carried out in triplicate to obtain an average value for the
mass of water in the container.

5.4.4 Calculations.

1000W
5.4.4.1 F=
V
where

F = poured density of the sand in kg/m3

W = mass of sand in g to fill container.
V = volume of container in ml.

5.4.4.2 W is obtained from the test data as follows:

s gram = mass of sand initially taken for filling lower funnel

t gram = mass of sand over after filling lower funnel.
• s - t gram = mass of sand in lower funnel.

u gram = mass of sand initially taken for filling lower funnel and container.
v gram = mass of sand over after filling funnel and container.
• u - v gram = mass of sand in funnel and container.

• (u - v) - (s - t) gram = W (i.e. mass of sand in container only).

5.4.4.3 V is obtained from the test data as follows:

m gram = mass of container and glass plate and water

n gram = mass of container and glass plate.
• m - n gram = mass of water.

d = RD of water at the temperature at which the test is carried out (see Method A7
section 5.3)

m− n
then : = V (i.e. volume of container).
d
5.4.4.4 Substitute these values for W and V in the above formula

[( u − v) − ( s − t ) ]
F= x d x 1000
m− n
5.5 Once sand has been used for a density determination, it should be resieved. (This, of
course, does not apply to clean sand returned to the bulk supply.) After the sand has
been used for some time, it tends to become dirty, in which case it should be rewashed
as well as resieved and its poured density (or factor) redetermined. Whenever a new
batch of sand is prepared, it should be calibrated.

5.6 Layers in the road foundation are normally constructed to a compacted thickness of
between 75 and 150 mm and density determinations are normally limited to
approximately these minimum and maximum depths. I n any case, a determination to
a depth of less than 75 mm is more subject to error and may not be very reliable,
whereas a determination to a depth of more than 150 mm creates practical difficulties
in the digging of the hole. It should also be remembered that the poured density of the
sand is determined in a 152,4 mm deep container. Another consideration is the effect
of density gradients, and although the construction of layers considerably thicker than
150 mm may be permissible (or unavoidable in the case of very coarse material), it is
considered that the density determinations should be limited to a depth of 150mm.

5.7 If a large stone is encountered in the density hole, the determination should not be
attempted. Apart from the practical difficulty of removing the stone, the test result
will be meaningless. Another spot should then be selected for the determination. If the
material contains a large proportion of very coarse aggregate, i.e. aggregate of, say,
more than 75 mm in diameter, the density test is hardly considered worthwhile as the
results will not be sufficiently reliable.

REFERENCES

AASHTO Designation T191-61

ASTM Designation D1556-64
 METHOD A10 (b) T

TENTATIVE METHOD FOR DETERMINING THE IN-PLACE DENSITY AND

MOISTURE CONTENT OF SOILS AND GRAVELS BY NUCLEAR METHODS

1 SCOPE

This method describes the in-place determination of the density and moisture content
of a compacted layer by nuclear methods.

Definition

The in-place dry density of a material is the dry mass per unit volume of the material
expressed in kilograms per cubic metre.
The in-place moisture content (m/v) is the mass of water per unit volume of the
in-place material expressed in kilograms per cubic metre. (In this method moisture
content will refer to this definition.) This moisture content can be converted and
expressed as a percentage moisture per mass of dry material (m/m).

2 APPARATUS

2.1 A nuclear system complete with accessories and stored in a suitable transit case as
supplied by the manufacturer. A detailed description of each unit and principles of
operation should be given in the manual for the nuclear instrument.

2.2 Other equipment needed to do the test, e.g. bedding sand for levelling site if
necessary, bedding plate, paint brush, etc.

2.3 Safety

Radiation levels and shielding must com ply with government regulations. The
equipment should also have safety features such as an automatic source retraction
mechanism. Please note that nuclear apparatus must be registered with the Atomic
Energy Board.

3 METHOD

3.1 Standardization of equipment

3.1.1 The following checks shall be made before any instrument is used:

(a) The warm-up time must be in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications.
(b) The power supply must be properly charged (a low power level should be
indicated by an audible warning or any other suitable indicator).
(c) The metering or display system must be checked for correct functioning.

3.1.2 Laboratory check

Check the instrument on the reference unit at the preselected reference spot at the
 main laboratory before the instrument is taken into the field.
Sufficient readings must be taken on the reference standard as recommended by the
manufacturer.
If more than the prescribed number of readings fall outside the calibration limits, a
second set of readings should be taken. If more than the prescribed number of these
readings fall outside the limits, the instrument should be referred back to the
manufacturer.
A permanent record should be kept of the readings taken on the reference unit.

3.1.3 Field check

A reference spot must be selected in the field against which daily checks can be made
before and after routine tests. Two readings must be taken and they should fall within
the field calibration limits set by the manufacturer. If one reading is outside the limits
a second set of readings must be taken. If this second set of readings is not within the
limits, another field reference spot must be selected . Care should be taken to ensure
that other objects, such as vehicles, walls or other nuclear instruments, are not in the
immediate vicinity (at least 10 m away).

3.2 Preparation of test site

3.2.1 Flush backscatter measurements

The gauge must be properly bedded on the surface of the material for all flush count
measurements.
A bedding of finely-graded sand (passing the 0,600 mm sieve) should be strewn
lightly over the site. The surface gauge should then be bedded on the surface by
moving it backwards and forwards over the site. The bedding sand should only serve
to fill the surfacevoids. A continuous layer of sand over the material must be avoided.

3.2.2 Direct transmission mode of measurement

The drill rod is placed through the guide in the bedding plate and then driven into the
ground at least 50 mm deeper than the desired depth of measurement. Care must be
taken not to damage the hole when withdrawing the drill rod.

3.3 Moisture and denslty measurements

Three methods exist for determining the density of a material. These are the:

(A) flush backscatter method;

(B) the air-gap count ratio method; and
(C) the direct transmission method.

The moisture content (m/v) of a material can only be determined by the flush
backscatter method.
3.3.1 Method A - Flush backscatter (FBS)

The following procedure should be used to carry out the flush backscatter density and
moisture count measurements.

(a) Bed the surface gauge ensuring that it is flush with the surface of the material.
(b) Activate the nuclear instrument (ensure that the source is not in the retracted
position).
(c) Read and record moisture and density readings after the counting period has
ceased. (Record in 1 and 3 of Form A10(b)T/1 .)
(d) The source must then be retracted and the gauge turned through 180• . Rebed on
the same test point. Repeat procedures (b) and (c). (Record in 1 and 3 of Form
A10(b)T/1.)

3.3.2 Method B - airgap count ratio method (ACR)

This method is applied for instruments using this facility. The following procedure is
followed:

(a) Bed the surface gauge ensuring that it is flush with the surface of the material.
(b) Activate the nuclear instrument (ensuring that the source is not in the retracted
position).
(c) Read and record the moisture and density readings after the counting period has
ceased. (Record in 1 and 3 of Form A10(b)T/1 .)
(d) The source must then be retracted and the gauge turned through 180• . Rebed on
the same test point. Repeat procedures (b) and (c). (Record in 1 and 3 of Form
A10(b)T/1.)
(e) After retracting the source of the surface gauge, lift it gently off the test site. Care
must be taken so as not to disturb the bedding sand when used.
(f) Carefully place the airgap cradle over the same position as previously occupied by
the surface gauge. Lower the surface gauge into the recess in the cradle ensuring that
the radio-active source occupies the same position as before. Care should be taken to
ensure the sole-plate is free of mud and bedding sand before being placed onto the
cradle.
(g) Read and record the density reading after counting has ceased. (Record in 2 of
Form A10(b)T/1.)
(h) Retract the source of the gauge.
(i) Without disturbing the airgap cradle, turn the surface gauge through 180• and
replace in the recess.
(j) Activate the source and read and record the density reading after counting has
ceased. (Record in 2 of Form A10(b)T/1.)

3.3.3 Method C - Direct transmission (DT)

The direct transmission (DT) mode of measurement is used for determining density
only.
With some machines moisture count readings may be taken by backscatter
simultaneously with the DT density readings.
The procedure for determining the density by DT is as follows:
 (a) Place the instrument over the prepared test point with the direct transmission probe
directly above the hole.
(b) Lower the probe into the hole to the desired depth of density measurement.
(c) To minimize the airgap between the source and the detector, the gauge must be
gently pulled to position the probe against the side of the hole.
(d) After taking density count readings, the probe must first be retracted before
attempts to remove the instrument from the test point are made, in order to prevent
damage to the probe.
(e) A second density count reading may be taken (by turning the gauge through 180 •
and carrying out the procedure (a)- (d)

4 CALCULATIONS

4.1 For Method A - Flush backscatter (FBS)

4.1.1 Wet density. Calculate the average of the flush backscatter density counts for each test
point. Read off the correspond ing wet density i n kg/m3 from the backscatter density
calibration curve or tables. The wet density should be read off to the nearest 5 kg/m3.

4.1.2 Moisture content (m/v). Calculate the average of the moisture counts for each test
point. Read off the correspond ing moistu re content in kg/m3 from the relevant
moisture calibration curve or tables. The wet density should be read off to the nearest
5 kg/m3.

4.2 For Method B - Airgap count ratio (ACR)

4.2.1 Wet density

(a) Calculate the average of the flush backscatter density counts and the average of
the airgap density counts.
(b) Divide the average airgap density count by the average backscatter density count to
determine the airgap count ratio (ACR). The division shall be carried out to the third
decimal place.
(c) Read off the corresponding wet density from the ACR density curve. The wet
density shall be read off to the nearest 5 kg/m3.

4.2.2 Moisture content (m/v). Calculate the average of the moisture counts. Read off the
corresponding moisture content in kg/m3 from the moisture curve. The moisture
content shall be read off to the nearest kg/m3.

4.3 For Method C - Direct transmission (DT)

4.3.1 Wet density. Calculate the average of the direct transmission density counts for each
test point. Read off the wet density in kg/m3 from the calibrated DT density curve.
The wet density shall be read off to the nearest 5 kg/m3.

4.3.2 Moisture content (m/v). Calculate the average of the moisture counts. Read off the
corresponding moisture content in kg/m3 from the moisture curve. The moisture
content shall be read off to the nearest kg/m3.
4.4 Dry density

Calculate the dry density by subtracting the moisture content from the wet density.
Round off the result to the nearest 5 kg/m3.

4.5 Reporting of results

The results should be reported to the nearest 1 0 kg/m3.

5 NOTES

5.1 The basic count/moisture and count/density backscatter curves and the air-gap count
ratio/density curve are supplied by the manufacturer.

5.2 Material type effect

The basic calibration curve of some instruments may require adjustment due to the
effect of change in chemical composition of a material as described in 5.3 for the
density, and in 5.4 for the moisture calibration curves for all instruments.
Techniques such as the airgap count ratio (ACR) method can be employed to
compensate for this effect.

5.3 Compensation of back scatter density curve

5.3.1 Carry out ACR wet density measurements as in Method B at six different test points.

(a) Calculate the average FBS density count for each test point.
(b) Calculate the average air-gap density backscatter count for each test Point.
(c) Determine the air-gap count ratio for each test point.
(d) Determine the wet density for each test point from the ACR curve.

5.3.2 Plot the average of these wet densities against the average of the corresponding six
flushback scatter count averages on copies of the basic back scatter graph supplied
with the equipment.

5.3.3 Through this point plot a line parallel to the basic backscatter curve. This is then the
compensated density backscatter for the particular material .

5.4 Compensation of basic moisture curve

5.4.1 Investigations have shown that where moisture measurements are carried out on
ferrugenous materials (laterite, iron-stone, ferricrete) or on materials containing
chemically bound water (such as clay or soil having a high organic matter content), it
is necessary to compensate the basic moisture curve supplied with the instrument.
The appropriate moisture calibration curve tor those materials can be established by
means of comparative gravi-metrical moisture determinations. The calibrated curve is
generally offset by a constant factor from the basic curve. The following procedure
should be followed to establish the correct curve:
5.4.2 Determine nuclear moisture and wet density counts at five different test points using
Method B.

5.4.3 Immediately after each test, take a sample (approximately 2 kg) at the same test point
to a depth of 75 mm. Determine the moisture content (m/m basis) by oven drying.

5.4.4 Determine the wet densities f rom the basic ACR curve.

5.4.5 Convert the moisture content (mass per mass) to a mass per volume basis by means of
the following formula:

M + Dw
Moisture content (m/v) in kg/m3 =
M + 100

where
Dw = wet density in kg/m3
M = moisture content (m/m) (per cent)

5.4.6 Establish the correct calibration curve by drawing a line parallel to the basic curve
through a plot of the average of the five mean moisture counts against the average of
the five moisture contents (m/v) in kg/m3.
 METHOD B1

THE DETERMINATION OF THE AGGREGATE CRUSHING VALUE

1 SCOPE

The ACV of an aggregate as defined hereunder is determined by crushing a prepared

confined aggregate sample under a specified, gradually applied compressive load and
determining the percentage of the material crushed finer than a specified size.

Definition

The aggregate crushing value (ACV) of an aggregate is the mass of material,

expressed as a percentage of the test sample. which is crushed finer than a 2,36 mm
sieve when a sample of aggregate passing the 13,2 mm and retained on the 9,50 mm
sieve is subjected to crushing under a gradually applied compressive load of 400 kN.

2 APPARATUS

2.1 An open-ended steel cylinder of 150 mm nominal diameter with plunger and base plate
(Figure B1/l).

2.2 A metal tamping rod 16 mm in diameter and 450 mm to 600 mm long. One end must be
hemi-spherical.

2.3 A balance to weigh up to 3 kg, accurate to 1gram

2.4 One each of the following sieves of 200mm diameter and complying with SABS 197: 13,2
mm, 9,50 mm and 2,36 mm.

2.5 A compression testing machine capable of applying a load of 400 kN and which can be
operated at a uniform rate of loading so that this load is reached in 10 minutes.

2.6 A cylindrical measure with an internal diameter of 115 mm and 180 mm deep.

3 METHOD

3.1 Dry test

3.1.1 Preparation of the test sample. The field sample is quartered down to a suitable size from
which a sufficient quantity of the fraction passing the 13,2 mm and retained on the 9,50 mm
sieve is sieved out (i.e. enough to fill the cylindrical measure as described below, see 5.1).

Transfer the sample to a shallow tray and dry for at least four hours at a temperature of 105
- 110 • C.
3.1.2 Filling the cylinder. The cylindrical measure is filled to overflowing with the aggregate in
three more or less equal layers, each layer being tamped 25 times with the rounded end of
the tamping rod. The measure is then levelled off using the tamping rod as a straight-edge
and the mass of the aggregate in the measure is determined (see 5 2). The open-ended
cylinder is now placed on the base plate and the test sample added in thirds, each third
being tamped 25 times with the tamping rod. The surface of the aggregate is levelled and the
plunger inserted, making sure that the plunger does not jam in the cylinder.

3.1.3 Crushing and sieving of the sample. The apparatus with the test sample is now placed
between the platens of the testing machine and load is applied at as uniform a rate as
possible to reach 400 + 5 kN in 10 minutes + 15 seconds. When 400 kN is reached, the
load is released, the sample removed from the cylinder, placed in a suitable pan and sieved
on a 2,36 mm sieve (see 5.2). The fraction passing the sieve is weighed.

32 Wet test

3.2.1 Preparation of the test sample

The same as in 3.1.1.

3.2.2 Filling the cylinder

Proceed as in 3.1.2. When the mass of the aggregate has been determined, the aggregate is
immersed in water for 24 h.

After soaking, take the aggregate out, allow to drain for 5 minutes, and then surface-dry it
by rolling it in a damp cloth. The test cylinder is then filled as in 3.1.2.

3.2.3 Crushing and sieving of the sample

Proceed as in 3.1.3 but before sieving dry the material taken from the cylinder at 105
-110• C for at least 16 h.

4 CALCULATIONS

Calculate the dry or wet aggregate crushing value to the nearest 0,1 % as follows and
report it to the nearest 0,1% on form B4/3 or a similar form.

Aggregate crushing value (wet or dry) percentage (m/m) =

B
ACV = x 100
A
where :
 A = mass of test sample before test.
B = mass of fraction passing the 2,36 mm sieve.

5 NOTES

5.1 The test described above is the standard test but if the available aggregate does not contain
a sufficient quantity of the standard fraction, a non-standard test can be done using the same
procedure as described in 3.1 and/or 3.2 on material in any of the size ranges given below.

SIEVE SIZES in millimetre’s

For preparation of test samples For separating of fines after crushing
Passing Retained
26.5 19.0 4.75
19.0 13.2 3.35
9.5 6.7 1.70
6.7 4.75 1.18

For sizes larger than the standard, the standard apparatus should be used.

For tests on the smaller sizes use:

instead of 2.1 a crushing cylinder of diameter 77 mm, depth 75 mm and a plunger of

diameter 75 mm;

instead of 2.6 a measure with internal diameter 60 mm and depth 90 mm.

5.2 If the test is to be repeated, a

similar mass of aggregate is
used. However, the
repeatability of the test has
been found to be very good
(--0,2 %) and it is normally not
necessary for routine tests to
be done in duplicate

REFERENCE

SABS Method 841

 METHOD B2

THE DETERMINATION OF THE 10 PER CENT FINES AGGREGATE CRUSHING

VALUE

1 SCOPE

The 10 per cent Fines Aggregate Crushing Value (10 % FACT) as defined hereunder is
determined by measuring the load required to crush a prepared aggregate sample to give 10
per cent material passing a specified sieve after crushing. The procedure described in SABS
Method 842 is followed.

Definition

The 10 per cent Fines Aggregate Crushing Value is the force in kN required to crush a
sample of -13,2+9,5mm aggregate so that 10 per cent of the total test sample will pass a 2,
36 mm sieve.

2 APPARATUS

As in SABS Method 842.

3 METHOD

Follow SABS Method 842.

4 CALCULATIONS

Do the calculations as set out in SABS Method 842 and report the force to the nearest 10
kN for forces of 100 kN or more, or to the nearest 5 kN for forces of less than 100 kN, on
Form B4/3 (or a similar) form.

REFERENCE

SABS Method 842

S.A. BUREAU OF STANDARDS

STANDARD METHODS
SABS Method 842

FACT value (10 % fines aggregate crushing value) of coarse aggregates

SECTION 1. APPARATUS
1.1 As described in SABS Method 841.

SECTION 2. PREPARATION OF TEST SPECIMENS

2.1 As described in SABS Method 841 except that at least three test specimene (each of mass
about 3 kg) are required for each test (wet and dry).

SECTION 3. PROCEDURE

3.1 Dry test

a) Place the crushing cylinder on its base plate, and add a test spesimen in thirds, tamping
each layer with 25 light strokes of the tamping rod. Level the surface of the aggregate and
insert the plunger (taking care to ensure that it does not jam in the cylinder) until it rests
horizontally on this surface.

b) Place the assembly centrally on the bearing platen of the compression testing machine
and so apply force (at a uniform rate) that the distance that the plunger is forced down into
the cylinder in 10 min is about 20 mm . Note the maximum force applied and then release it.

c) Remove all the material from the cylinder and sieve it on a 2,36 mm sieve until no further
significant quantity passes through the sieve in 1 min . Determine, to the nearest 5 g, the
mass of the portion that passed through the sieve (i.e. the fines) and express this mass as a
percentage of the initial mass of the specimen.

d) Test the other two specimens in the same way but so vary the rate of application of force
(and hence the distance that the plunger is forced into the cylinder) in the light of the above
result as to obtain, ideally, three forces that give, respectively, a percentage fines value

1) of less than 7,5 %,

2) in the range 7,5-12,5 %,
3) of over 12,5 % .

e) Plot the percentages so obtained against the forces, in kN, required for each, and from
the resultant graph obtain the force that would give 10 % fines. Record this force (to the
nearest kN in the case of a force of 100 kN or more, and to the nearest 0,5 kN in the case
of a smaller force) as the 10 % FACT value of the aggregate.

3.2 Wet test

a) After the 24 h soaking, take a specimen out of the water, allow to drain for about 5 min,
and then surface dry it by rolling it in a damp cloth.

b) Proceed as in 3.1(a)-(d) but in the third step of the test (see 3.1(c)), dry the material
taken from the cylinder for 24 h at 105-110 • C before sieving it.

NOTE: In general, the rate of crushing must be reduced for material that has been wetted.
 c) Then proceed as in 3.1(e).

NOTE: In routine testing and in cases where the behaviour of a test sample can be fairly
closely predicted, and provided that the force applied in 3..l(b) has produced a fines value
in the range 7,5-12,5%, the procedures described in 3.1(d) and (e) can be replaced by the
following procedure.

1) From the force required to give a percentage fines in the range 7,5-12,5 calculate, as
follows, a force that wiIl be required to produce 10 % fines:

14 x
F =
y+4
where :
F = force required to produce 10 % fines, kN
x = force required to produce a percentage fines in the range 7,5-12,5 as determined,
kN
Y = percentage fines obtained with force x

2) Preferebly then carry out a test using the force as calculated in (1) above. If the
percentage fines so obtained is not 10 %, apply the formula as in (1) above to the force
used in this test, and take the re-adjusted force as the final result.

May1976

Approved by the COUNCIL OF IHE SOUTH AFRICAN RUREAU OF STANDARDS

COPYRIGHT RESERVED
ISBN 0-6S6-03901-0
 METHOD B3T

TENTATIVE METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF THE FLAKINESS

INDEX OF A COARSE AGGREGATE

SCOPE

The Flakiness Index of a coarse aggregate is determined by gauging screened-out fractions

with the appropriate slot(s) given in Table I below. Aggregate retained on the 75 mm and
passing the 4,75 mm sieve is not included in the test.

Definition

The Flakiness Index of a coarse aggregate is the mass of particles in that aggregate,
expressed as a percentage of the total mass of that aggregate, which will pass the slot
or slots of specified width for the appropriate size fraction, as given in Table I below.
The width of the slots are half those of the sieve openings through which each of the
fractions passes.

2 APPARATUS

2.1 A gauge (of any suitable form) of metal 1,6 mm thick and having one slot for each size of
fraction to be tested. The slots must be rectangular in shape and their dimensions must
conform to the relevant values given in Columns 3 and 4 of Table 1. Alternatively, a
flakiness machine may be used.

2.2 A balance to weigh up to 4 kg, accurate to 1gram..

2.3 Test sieves, 200 mm in diameter, conforming to SABS 197 and with openings as given in
Columns 1 and 2 of Table 1. The 4,75 mm sieve must be made of wire mesh.

3 METHOD

3.1 Preparation of test sample

By means of a riffler, obta In a representative test sample of approximate mass as given in

Column 5 of Table 1. Separate the sample into the different size fractions using the test
sieves given in Columns 1 and 2 of Table I (see 5.1). Material retained on the 75 mm and
passing the 4,75 mm sieve is discarded and not used in the test (see 5.2). Weigh the test
sample to the nearest 1 gram.

3.2 Separation ot tlakes

3.2.1 Using the slot gauge

 Gauge all the pieces in each fraction by using the slot for that fraction as given in Columns 3
and 4 of Table 1. Record the mass of the total quantity of pieces that passed through the
slots, to the nearest 1 gram.

3.2.2 Using the flakiness machine

Place the sieved-out fractions in the appropriate compartments formed by placing the
spacers on the rods and the collars on the spacers, followed by the base plate of the next
compartment.

Close the last compartment with a perspex plate and clamp it down with wing-nuts. Set the
machine in operation and tip the drum to an angle adjusted according to the speed of
rotation to ensure that the particles slide down without rolling. Separation is complete when
no more flakes pass through the slots for a period of 30 seconds. Remove the flakes from
the collecting pan and record their mass to the nearest 1 gram

4 CALCULATIONS

Calculate the Flakiness Index to the nearest 0,1 as follows:

Total mass of Aggregate pass slots

Flakiness Index = x 100
Mass of test sample

where :

the mass of the test sample is the total mass of the fractions used in the determination

Report the result to the nearest 0,1 on form B4/3 or a similar form.

5 NOTES

5.1 It is customary and practical to use the size fractions as screened out for the sieve analysis.
When sieving is done by mechanical shakers, care must be taken to ensure that sieving is
complete. If necessary, the sample should be divided into two or more portions and sieved
separately.

5.2 It is sometimes necessary to determine the flakiness of a particular fraction(s), for instance in
the case of basecourse aggregate. In such cases the material larger and smaller than the
fractions concerned is screened out and discarded. The test is then carried out as described
above.

REFERENCES

SABS Method 847

 BS 812: Part 1: 1975

TABLE 1

1 2 3 4 5
Size of Fraction to be Minimum length of Width of slot Approximate
gauged (sieve sizes) in slot (subject to a mass of test
mm. tolerance of sample passing
0.10mm) sieves in Column
1
Passing Retained mm mm Kg
75.0 63.0 150.0 37.5 5
63.0 53.0 126.0 31.5 5
53.0 37.5 106.0 26.5 5
37.5 26.5 75.0 18.75 5
26.5 19.0 53.0 13.25 4
19.0 13.2 38.0 9.5 3.5
13.2 9.5 26.4 6.6 2
9.5 6.7 19.0 4.75 1
6.7 4.75 13.4 3.35 0.5
 METHOD B4

THE SIEVE ANALYSIS OF AGGREGATES, INCLUDING THE DETERMINATION

OF THE MATERIAL PASSING THE 0,425 AND 0,075mm SIEVES

SCOPE

This method describes the sieve analysis of a dried aggregate sample, after it has been
washed through a 0,075 mm sieve, and the sub-sequent determination of the percentages of
material by mass passing the 0,425 and 0,075 mm sieves, also called the fines and dust
content of aggregates respectively.

These determinations are done on aggregates for asphalt, surface treatments and concrete.

2 APPARATUS

2.1 A suitable riffler.

2.2 The following sieves, 200 mm in diameter, complying with the requirements of SABS 197
(sieves larger than 4,75 mm must be of perforated plate and sieves 4,75 mm and smaller of
woven wire mesh): 75 mm, 53 mm, 37,5 mm, 26,5 mm, 19,0 mm, 13,2 mm, 9,5 mm, 6,7
mm, 4,75 mm, 3,35 mm, 2,36 mm, 1,18 mm, 0,600 mm, 0,425 mm, 0,300 mm, 0,150 mm
and 0,075 mm together with a bottom pan and lid.

2.3 A mechanical sieve shaker (optional).

2.4 A balance with a pan to weigh up to 5 kg, accurate to 1,0 gram

2.5 A suitable basin, about 350 mm in diameter.

2.6 A pan about 300 mm square.

2.7 Flat pans about 200 mm in diameter and 30 mm deep.

2.8 A drying oven, thermostatically controlled and capable of maintaining a temperature of 105
to 110• C.

2.9 The following brushes for cleaning the sieves: a brass or copper wire brush, measuring
approximately 50 mm x 25 mm with bristles not more than 25 mm long and a hard-bristle
brush measuring approximately 50 mm x 25 mm.

3 METHOD

3.1 See of test sample

 The approximate mass of the test sample is given in Table 1. The test sample may only be
obtained by quartering and must by no means be weighed out exactly.

TABLE 1

Max. Particle Size Aprox. Mass of

Sample
75.0 10.0
53.0 7.0
37.5 4.0
26.5 3.0
19.0 2.5
13.2 1.5
9.5 1.0
4.75 0.7
2.36 & finer 0.5

3.2 Quartering

The field sample is poured into one or more of the riffler pans. The material is then poured
through the riffler by slowly tilting the pan so that the material flows in an even stream over
its width. At the same time the pan is moved to and fro along the full length of the riffler to
ensure an even flow of the material. The process is repeated with the contents of one of the
pans under the riffler until a sample of the required size is obtained.

3.3 Drying

Place the test sample in a suitable basin and dry in an oven at a temperature not exceeding
110• C to a constant mass. Weigh the test sample.

3.4 Washing

Place the material in a suitable basin and cover with tap water. Agitate thoroughly in the
water to loosen any dust particles adhering to the aggregate and also to break down any
clay lumps that may exist.

Decant the wash water over the 0,075 mm sieve protected by one or two coarser sieves.
The wash water containing the minus 0,075 mm material is discarded or allowed to run
away. Continue this washing procedure until the wash water is clear.
 Transfer the material retained on the 0,075 mm sieve and the protecting sieves to a square
pan by inverting the sieves one by one and washing down with water. The water in the pan
is poured off carefully and the material dried in an oven at a temperature of 105 to 110• C
to a constant mass (see 5.1 and 5.2).

3 .5 Sieving

Nest the required or specified sieves in order of decreasing size of opening from the top to
bottom and pour the sample on to the top sieve. Agitate the sieves by hand or with a
mechanical apparatus and continue sieving for a sufficient period in such a manner that, after
completion, not more than 1 % by mass of the residue on any individual sieve will pass that
sieve during one minute of continuous hand sieving. After sieving, the material retained on
each sieve, as well as the material which has passed the bottom sieve, is weighed and the
results recorded on Form B4/1.

4 CALCULATIONS

4.1 Calculate the mass of the minus 0,075 mm material by subtracting the total mass of the
material retained on the sieves from the mass of the original test sample (see 5.2).

4.2 Convert the mass of each fraction retained between two sieves to a percentage of the total
dry mass of the sample.

4.3 Convert the percentages retained on the sieves to Dercentaaes passinq the sieves.

4.4 Calculate the percentages to the nearest 0,1.

Report the following results to the nearest whole number on a suitable form such as B4/2 or
B4/3.

(a) The percentage passing each sieve.

(b) The percentage passing the 0,425mm sieve, i.e. the fines content.

(c) The percentage passing the 0,075 mm sieve, i.e. the dust content.

The results may also be plotted on a suitable grading sheet-such as Form A1/3.

5 NOTES

5.1 The washing procedure for samples containing a high percentage of minus 0,075 mm
material may be facilitated by dry-sieving the sample prior.to washing.

5.2 If the minus 0,075 mm fraction is already washed out, e.g. in the case of aggregate tor
asphalt after extraction of the binder, or the sample is regarded as free from dust, e.g.
single-size surfacing stone, paragraphs 3.4 and 4.1 may be omitted.
 The same applies when a very accurate analysis is not necessary or too time-consuming.

5.3 Table ll gives the maximum allowable mass of material retained on a specific sieve 200 mm
in diameter. To prevent overloading of a sieve, the material should be divided and sieved in
more than one operation.

TABLE II

Sieve Size Maximum

(mm) allowable
mass on
sieve (Kg)
75.0 1
53.0 1
37.5 1
26.5 0.8
19.0 0.6
13.2 0.4
9.5 0.3
6.7 0.3
4.75 0.25
3.35 0.25
2.36 0.2
1.18 0.2
0.60 0.2
0.30 0.15
0.15 0.15
0.075 0.10

5.4 The sieves should be checked frequently and replaced when the mesh becomes stretched
or broken .

REFERENCE

SABS Method 829

 METHOD B6

THE DETERMINATION OF ORGANIC IMPURITIES IN SAND FOR CONCRETE

SCOPE

This test describes a procedure for the approximate estimation of the presence of
organic materials in natural sands for use in cement mortar or concrete by suspending
the sand in a NaOH solution and comparing the colour with a standard reference
colour. The principal value of the test is to warn that further tests are necessary before
the sands can be approved (see 5.1).

2 APPARATUS

2.1 350 ml clear glass medicine bottles on which the 125 ml and 200 ml levels have been
marked.

2.2 Reagents

2.2.1 A 3% (m/v) sodium hydroxide solution: 30gram sodium hydroxide (CP) in 1000 ml
of distilled or demineralised water.

2.2.2 Reference solution:

Add 2,5 ml of a 2 % (m/v) solution of tannic acid in 10 % (V/V) ethanol to 97,5 ml of

the sodium hydroxide solution prepared in 2.2.1. Put the solution in a 350 ml clear
glass medicine bottle, stopper it, shake it vigorously and allow it to stand for 23 h.
Then shake the bottle again and allow it to stand for 1 h before use.

3 METHOD

3.1 Quarter down the field sample of the sand to be tested to obtain a test sample of
approximately 0,5 kg. The sand should be moistened slightly to prevent the loss of
dust and fines during quartering.

3.2 Fill the clear glass medicine bottle to the 125 ml mark with the sand. Add sodium
hydroxide solution until the combined volume of the sand and solution, after shaking,
is 200 ml.

Stopper the bottle, shake it vigorously, and allow it to stand for 24 h

3.3 Compare the depth of colour of the liquid layer above the sand with that of the
reference solution. (A colour depth comparator can be used if desired, see 5.2.)
Indicate on Form B4/2 whether the colour is lighter, darker or equal to that of the
reference standard.

4 CALCULATIONS
There are no calculations.
5 NOTES

5.1 This test does not show up all organic impurities, for instance sugar, and does not give
dependable results but it is useful as a rapid method.

5.2 If the colour of the liquid layer is darker than that of the reference solution, further
tests should be carried out to determine the presence or quantity of organic impurities
present.

REFERENCE

SABS Method 832

 METHOD B7

THE DETERMINATION OF THE TRETON IMPACT VALUE OF AGGREGATE

SCOPE

The Treton value is a measure of the resistance of aggregate to impact. The aggregate
is subjected to the blows of a falling hammer and the resulting disintegration is
measured by means of the quantity passing the 2,0 mm sieve which is then expressed
as a percentage of the test sample. This is called the Treton value.

2 APPARATUS

2.1 A Treton apparatus consisting of a base plate, anvil, cylinder and a hammer weighing
15 kg + 50gram (Figure B7/l). The base plate should be placed on a firm concrete
block.

2.2 The following test sieves, complying with SABS 197 (200 mm in diameter): 19,0
mm, 16,0 mm and 2,0 mm. The bigger sieves must be made of perforated plate and
the 2,0 mm sieve of wire mesh.

2.3 A balance to weigh up to 2009, accurate to 0,1 gram.

3 METHOD

From the field sample, screen out a sufficient quantity (at least 200 9) of the--19,0 +
16,0 mm fraction (see 5.1). Select 15 to 20 of the most cubical pieces, weighing as
closely as possible 50 times the relative density of the aggregate in grammes (it is not
necessary to determine the relative density - an estimate will be satisfactory). Weigh
the aggregate pieces accurate to 0,19, and place them as evenly spaced as possible on
the anvil in such a manner that their tops are approximately in the same horizontal
plane.

Place the cylinder over the anvil and tighten the clamp screws. Place the hammer in
the cylinder, so that the top of the hammer is level with the top of the cylinder and let
it drop ten times from this position .

Remove the cylinder and sieve all the aggregate on the anvil and base plate thoroughly
through a 2,0 mm sieve. Weigh the aggregate retained on the sieve, accurate to
0,1gram, and record the mass. The test must be carried out in triplicate (see 5.2).

CALCULATIONS

Calculate the Treton value to the first decimal place as follows:

 ( A − B)
Treton value = x 100
A
where :

A = the mass of the stone particles before tamping

B = the mass of the stone particles retained on the 2.0 mm sieve after tamping.

Report the value to the nearest whole number.

5 NOTES

5.1 If the aggregate is noticeably variable as regards type or hardness, each type should be
tested and reported separately. In this case an estimate should be made of the
percentage of each type.

5.2 The Treton value, as reported, must be the average of three determinations. If an
individual result differs from the others by more than five, further tests should be
carried out
.
REFERENCE

SATMAR informalog
 METHOD B9

THE DETERMINATION OF THE BULK DENSITY OF COARSE AND FINE

AGGREGATE

SCOPE

The bulk compacted and uncompacted density of an aggregate as defined below is

calculated from the mass of compacted or uncompacted aggregate that fills a measure
of known volume.

Definition

The bulk density of an aggregate is the mass of material in either a compacted or

uncompacted state in a given volume and is expressed in kg/ml.

2 APPARATUS

2.1 A watertight cylindrical metal measure of appropriate nominal dimensions and

approximate capacity as given in Table 1.

The inner surface of the bottom of the measure must be flat and its outer surface
hemispherical or rounded to a radius of about 1 metre. The bottom must be solid and
both the walls and the bottom must be sufficiently rigid to withstand, without
deformation, the impacts to which it is subjected in use. The measure must also be
fitted with two handles on the sides for lifting.

Nominal Capacity Internal Internal depth Min. thickness

Aggregate size (L) diameter (mm) of metal
(mm) (mm) (mm)
Under 4.75 3 150 150 3
4.75 - 37.5 15 250 280 4
Over 37.5 30 350 290 5

2.2 A balance to weigh up to 10 kg, accurate to 10 gram for material -4.75 mm.

2.3 A scale to weigh up to 100 kg, accurate to 0,1 kg for material + 4,75 mm.

3 METHOD

3.1 Calibration of the measure

Fill the measure with water at 20 - 24 • C so that no meniscus is present above the rim
of the container. Weigh the water in the container or determine its volume by
measuring it with a measuring cylinder.
3.2 Preparation of test sample

By means of a riffler quarter out sufficient aggregate to fill the measure to be used.
Dry the test sample in an oven at a temperature of 105 to 110 • C to a constant mass.

3.3 Determination of compacted bulk density

Fill the measure to overflowing with aggregate and compact the aggregate by
dropping the measure 30 times from a height of 15 to 20 mm onto a hard surface.
Remove the surplus aggregate with a straight-edge.

Determine the mass of the aggregate in the measure accurate to 10 gram for -4,75 mm
material and to 100 gram for + 4,75 mm material.

3.4 Determination of uncompacted bulk density

Fill the measure to overflowing by means of a shovel or scoop, discharging the

aggregate from a height approximately 50 mm above the top of the measure. Take
care to prevent, as far as possible, segregation of the particle sizes of which the sample
is composed

Remove the surplus aggregate with a straightedge.

Determine the mass of the aggregate in the measure accurate to 10 gram for -4,75 mm
material and to 100 gram for + 4,75mm material.

4 CALCULATIONS

4.1 Calculate the compacted or uncompacted bulk density to the nearest 10 kg/m3 as
follows:

Ma
Bulk density in kg / m³ =
Vm
where :

Ma = mass of aggregate filling the measure in kg

Vm = volume of water filling the measure in m3

Mw
Vm =
RDw
where :

Mw = mass of water filling the measure in kg

RDw = relative density of water at test temperature (see Method A7 Section 5.39)
4.2 Report the bulk density accurate to the nearest 10 kg/m3.

REFERENCE

SABS Method 845

 METHOD B10

THE DETERMINATION OF THE SHRINKAGE PROPERTIES OF CONCRETE

AGGREGATE

SCOPE

This test covers the measurement of linear shrinkage in cement mortar or concrete
made with a specific aggregate, and is carried out according to SABS Method 836.

2 APPARATUS

As for SABS Method 836.

3 METHOD

Use SABS Method 836.

4 CALCULATIONS

As in SABS Method 836. Report the shrinkage to the nearest 0,001 per cent.

REFERENCE

SABS Method 836

S.A. BUREAU OF STANDARDS STANDARD METHODS

SABS Method 836

Effect of aggregates on the shrinkage and expansion of mortar

SECTION 1. APPARATUS

1.1 Moulds.
Moulds of nominal size 280 mm x 50 mm x 50 mm and constructed of a metal that
is not attacked by cement paste. The moulds shall be sufficiently rigid and so
assembled as to prevent leakage of liquid from a freshly- moulded specimen, and shall
be such that the base and each face can be disassembled individually. Each mould
shall be equipped with two metal anvils of diameter about 6 mm and shall have
provision for the screwing into the centre of each 50 mm x 50 mm face of one of these
anvils. Anvils shall be of a corrosion-resistant metal and long enough to allow an
anvil to be embedded in the specimen for a distance of about 15 mm .

1.2 Taming rod.

A round steel rod of length about 200 mm, diameter about 12 mm, and having a
hemispherical tip.
1.3 Comparator.
A suitable micrometer or comparator, reading 2• m, and equipped with an Invar steel
reference bar against which the comparator is checked immediately before each use.

1.4 Drying facility.

A vented cabinet or drying oven capable of maintaining a temperature of 50-55 • C
and a relative humidity of 15-25 %. The cabinet or drying oven shall have a capacity
of at least 30 e and a total floor/ shelf area of about 0,09 m2 , (Drying agents of a non
corrosive nature may be used to achieve the required relative humidity.)

SECTION 2. CONTROL MATERIALS

2.1 Reference material.

Reef quartzite that is free from shale and pyrites1

2.2 Control material for tests on fine aggregates.

Sand that is quartzose, whose relative density (RDcf) has been determined in
accordance with SABS Method 844, that has been separated into fractions by sieving
on a nest of sieves of aperture sizes 4750-75 • m as given in SABS Method 829, and
whose drying shrinkage and wet expansion have been calibrated against those of the
reference material.

2.3 Control material for tests on coarse aggregates.

Stone-unweathered, unaltered, and petrographically approved gabbro, norite, dolerite,
diabase, granite, or pre-Karroo quartzite in crushed form whose relative density
(RDcc) has been determined in accordance with SABS Method 844 and that has been
separated into fractions, nd calibrated as in 2.2.

SECTION 3. PREPARATION OF AGGREGATES TO BE TESTED AND OF

CONTROL AGGREGATES

3.1 Fine aggregate

3.1.1 After determining the grading of the fine aggregate in accordance with SABS Method
829 and its relative density (RDf) in accordance with SABS Method 844, from the
relevant test sample (see SABS Method 828) take a portion of mass (in grams) equal
3825
to x RDf
2.72
3.1.2 By combining the size fractions of the control material (see 2.2) in the same
proportions as they occur in the fine aggregate under test, obtain a control
3825
aggregate of mass (in grams) equal to x RDcf .
2.72
3.2 Coarse aggregate

3.2.1 After determining the relative density of the coarse aggregate in accordance with
 SABS Method 844, crush the relevant test sample (see SABS Method 828) of coarse
aggregate until it all passes a sieve of nominal size 4,75 mm . Sieve this material
through a nest of sieve of aperture sizes 4750-75 • m, as given in SABS Method 829
and note the grading. Then so re-combine portions of the different fractions as to
3825
obtain a mass (in grams) equal to x RDc ,
2.72
whose grading and dust content are within the relevant limits specified for sand for
concrete in SABS 1083 “ Aggregates from natural sources”.

3.2.2 By combining the size fractions of the control material (see 2.3) in the same
proportions as they occur in the crushed coarse aggregate under test, obtain a control
3825
aggregate of mass (in grams) equal to x RDcc .
2.72
SECTION 4. PREPARATION OF MORTAR SPECIMEN

4.1 Proportioning of mortar

4.1.1 Test specimens.

For each set of three mortar test specimens use the mass of aggregate prepared in
accordance with 3.1.1 or 3.2.1 (as relevant) and the following quantities of cement and
water:
a) Ordinary portland cement (complying with SABS 471 “Portland cement and
rapid-hardening portland cement”) : 1 275 g
b) water : 700 ml

NOTE: If the above mis proportions result in a mortar that cannot be compacted easily in the
mould, the amount of water in the mis may be increased by 70 ml . Further additions
of 70 ml volumes of water may be required but the use of additional water should, if
possible, be avoided. Record the actual volume of water used.

4.1.2 Control specimens. Using the mass of control aggregate prepared in accordance with
3.1.2 or 3.2.2 (as relevant) prepare, as in 4.1.1, three mortar control specimens using
exactly the same volume of water as was used in the preparation of the test specimens.

4.2 Mixing
Mix the dry materials on a non-porous surface with two trowels for 1 min . Add the
water and mix vigorously for a further 3 min .

4.3 Moulding.
From each mix prepare three specimens as follows:
a) Grease the moulds and then screw the anvils into position, ensuring that the inner
ends of the anvils do not become contaminated with grease. Measure, to the nearest 1
mm, and record the distance between the inner ends of the anvils in each mould.
b) Fill each mould in two layers, tamping each layer with 60 strokes of the tamping
rod and taking particular care to ensure that the anvils are properly embedded in the
 mortar. (Alternatively, provided that all specimens are compacted in the same way,
the mortar may be compacted on a jolting table or table vibrator.) Finally strike off
the mortar level with the top of the mould and cover each mould with waxed paper or
other impervious sheet.

4.4 Curing.
Cure the specimens (in the moulds) for 24 ± 0,5 h in an atmosphere that has a
temperature of 22-25 • C and a relative humidity of at least 90 %. So disassemble the
moulds that the anvils remain undisturbed in the ends of the specimens, and immerse
the specimens in water maintained at a temperature of 22-25 • C for a further 144 ± 2
h.

SECTION 5. PROCEDURE

5.1 Measurement of drying shrinkage

a)Remove the specimens from the water 168 ± 2 h after moulding, wipe off excess
water, clean the anvils and, using the comparator, immediately measure, to the nearest
2mm, the distance between the outer ends of the anvils (measurement A).

b) Store the specimens in the drying facility (maintained at a temperature of 50-55 • C

and a relative humidity of 15-25%) for 14 days, then remove the specimens from the
cabinet or oven, allow them to cool to 22-25 • C, and again measure as in (a) above
(measurement B).

5.2 Measurement of wetting expansion.

If the wetting expansion on saturation is also required, immerse the dried specimens
(see 5.1(b)) for 168 + 2 h in clean water maintained at 22-25 • C, and again measure as
in 5.1(a) (measurement C).

SECTION 6. CALCULATIONS

6.1 Drying shrinkage.

Calculate the drying shrinkage of each specimen as follows:

A− B
Shrinkage % = x 100
Gauge length
where the gauge length is the distance between the inner ends of the anvils (see 4.3
(a)).

6.2 Wetting expansion.

Calculate the wetting expansion of each specimen as follows:

C− B
Wetting Expansion % = x 100
Gauge length
6.3 a) Record, to the nearest 0,001 %, the average shrinkage and Wetting expansion
values of each set of three specimens.
b) Calculate and record also each of these averages as a percentage of the
corresponding averages (corrected in terms of the calibration with the reference
material) obtained with the specimens made from the appropriate control aggregate.

May 1976

Approved by the

COUNCIL OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN BUREAU OF STANDARDS

COPYRICHT RESERVED

ISBN 0-626-0388908
 METHOD B11

THE DETERMINATION OF ADHESION OF BITUMINOUS BINDER TO STONE

AGGREGATE BY MEANS OF THE CHEMICAL IMMERSION TEST (RIEDEL &
WEBER)

SCOPE

This method covers the determination of the adhesion of bitumen to stone aggregate
by boiling bitumen-coated aggregate successively in distilled water and in increasing
concentrations of sodium carbonate, numbered 0 to 9. The number of the
concentration at which the bitumen strips to such an extent that it is no longer a film
but only specks or droplets, is called the stripping value.

2 APPARATUS

2.1 A riffler with 25,0 mm openings.

2.2 A balance to weigh up to 200 9, accurate to 0,1 gram,

2.3 A drying oven thermostatically controlled and capable of maintaining a temperature of

105 - 110 • C.

2.4 A 200 ml glass beaker.

2.5 Various items such as containers for the heating and mixing of materials, a spatula,
etc.

Reagents

2.6 Na2CO3 (CP).

3 METHOD

3.1 Preparation of sample

By means of a riffler quarter out sufficient material to yield a test sample of 100 gram
of the --6,7 + 4,75 mm fraction. It will normally be necessary to crush the aggregate in
order to obtain 100 gram of the required size. Screen out a sufficient quantity of this
fraction and weigh off 100 gram Place the test sample in a suitable container and dry
in an oven at 105 to 110 • C.

At the same time heat approximately 100 gram of 150/200 pen. bitumen to the same
temperature Place the warm aggregate with its container on bitumen to the aggregate.
10.5
This is obtained from the ratio of aggregate (see 5.1). Mix the R D
RD
aggregate and bitumen well using a spatula and leave it to cool to room temperature.
3.2 Preparation ot sodium carbonate solutions

Solutions of Na2CO3 (CP) in distilled water are made up to concentrations as given in

the table below . Riedel & Weber numbers are allocated to the different
concentrations as indicated (the molecular mass of Na2CO3 is 106)(see 5.2):

Molar gram / litre Na2CO3 R&W

Concentratio Number
n
1/1 106.00 9
½ 53.00 8
1/4 26.50 7
1/8 13.25 6
1/16 6.62 5
1/32 3.31 4
1/64 1.65 3
1/128 0.82 2
1/256 0.41 1
Distilled water — 0

3.3 Determination of the stripping value

Pour about 50 ml of distilled water into a 200 ml glass beaker and bring it to the boil.
Take about 10 gram of the prepared bitumen/stone mix and put it into the boiling
water. Allow it to boil for 1 minute, pour the water off and shake the sample out onto
a piece of filter paper. Leave the sample on the filter paper until it is dry. Examine the
sample and if the bitumen film has stripped from the aggregate, a stripping value of 0
(zero) is given to the aggregate. Stripping is considered to be the condition in which
the film is broken and if there is still bitumen adhering to the stone it is in the form of
specks or droplets.

If no stripping is noticeable, the procedure is repeated, starting with the weakest

Na2CO3 solution and continuing with increasing concentrations until stripping takes
place. The stripping value of the aggregate is the R & W number of the lowest
concentration at which stripping occurs.

If the sample does not strip at number 9, a stripping value of 10 is given to the
aggregate.

4 CALCULATIONS

There are no calculations and the result is reported on Form B4/3 or a similar form.

5 NOTES

5.1 Originally Messrs Riedel & Weber used a smaller size aggregate, viz.--0,60+0,30mm,
and established a proportion of 71 parts aggregate to 29 parts bitumen by volume.
 With the larger size aggregate used in this method, a smaller quantity of bitumen is
required to produce more or less the same film thickness. This was empirically
established at a volume proportion of 90,4 parts aggregate to 9,6 parts bitumen.

Hence the formula :

15
.
RD of aggregate
to calculate the amount of bitumen in gram per 100 gram of dry aggregate. It is,
however, not essential to determine the RD of the stone - it may be estimated. The
following is a guide to the RD which may be assumed for some types of stone:

Description Average relative

density
Dolerite 2.95
Sandstone 2.65
Quartzite 2.65
Tillite 2.60
Shale 2.60

5.2 The lower concentrations of sodium carbonate are usually made up as follows:

Make up one litre of 1 M sodium carbonate solution. Take 500 ml of this solution and
make up to one litre to obtain the l/2M solution. Take 500 ml of the 1/2M solution
and make up to one litre to obtain the 1/4 M solution. Repeat the procedure until the
1/256 M solution is obtained.

REFERENCE

Road Research Laboratory, England: Bituminous Materials in Road Construction.

 METHOD B12

THE DETERMINATION OF THE EFFECT OF SOLUBLE DELETERIOUS

MATERIAL IN FINE AGGREGATE FOR CONCRETE

SCOPE

This test method covers the procedure for measuring the effect of soluble deleterious
materials in fine aggregate by comparing the compressive strength of mortar cubes
made from the fine aggregate in its natural state with the compressive strength of
mortar cubes made from a washed sample of the fine aggregate. The method described
in SABS Method 834 is followed.

2 APPARATUS

As in SABS Method 834.

3 METHOD

Follow SABS Method 834.

4 CALCULATIONS

Calculate the results as in SABS Method 834 and report the following:

4.1 The average strength of the cubes made with the unwashed aggregate as a percentage
of the average strength of the cubes made with washed aggregate, to the nearest whole
number.

4.2 Any significant features revealed by examination of the aggregate and specimens.

4.3 The quantity of mixing water used, expressed as a percentage by mass of cement.

5 NOTE

This method may also be used to compare the structural strength of a fine aggregate
for concrete with that of a fine aggregate of known quality.

REFERENCE

SABS Method 834

 S A BUREAU OF STANDARDS STANDARD METHODS

SABS Method 834

Soluble deleterious impurities in fine aggregates (limit test)

SECTION 1. APPARATUS

1.1 Trowels.
Two suitable gau6ing trowels of length approximately 200 mm .

1.2 Cube moulds.

Moulds, each of which is equipped with a base plate and a suitable cover plate, of a
metal that is not attacked by cement mortar. The moulds shall be rigidly constructed
in such a manner as to facilitate the removal of a moulded specimen without it
becoming damaged, and shall be so machined that, when assembled and ready for
use, the dimensions and internal faces of a mould are as follows:

a) Nominal height of mould and distance between opposite faces

.............................not less than 70,7 mm
b) Height of mould and distance between opposite faces equal to within
............................ ± 0,15 mm
c) Each angle between adjacent interior faces and planes of top and bottom surfaces
.............................90 ± 0,5 •
d) Interior faces and base plate plane to within .....................0,03 mm

Base plates shall be of such size that, during filling and compaction, the moulds are
adequately supported and that leakage will not occur.

1.3 Curing cabinet.

A curing cabinet (or curing room) maintained at a temperature of 22-25 • C and a
relative humidity of at least 90 %

1.4 Steam cabinet.

A steam cabinet of such dimensions that it will hold at least six cube moulds
simultaneously. It shall be equipped with means to supply (continuously for 24 h)
steam at a temperature of 85-90 • C and at normal atmospheric pressure. The cabinet
shall be so insulated as to ensure that the temperature of the steam in the cabinet does
not vary by more than 1 • C, and shall be provided with a steam outlet that ensures that
the steam pressure does not exceed atmospheric pressure.

1-5 Compression testing machine

A suitable compression testing machine of sufficient capacity and having
a) an accuracy and repeatability that comply with the requirements for Grade A
machines of BS 1610 “ Methods for the load verification of testing machines”
b) bearing platens as described in the relevant clause of BS 1891 : Part 4 “ Methods of
testing concrete for strength” and
c) a rate of loading of 35 ± 5 MPa/min (as calculated from the test area of the
 specimen).

SECTION 2. MATERIAL

2.l Portland Cement

Complying with the requirements of SA3S 471 “Portland cement and rapid-hardening
portland cement”

SECTION 3. PREPARATION OF TEST SPECIMENS

3.1 Unwashed sand

3.1.1 Mixing.
From the unwashed sand in the relevant test sample (see SABS Method 828) prepare,
as follows :
a mortar m which the sand : cement ratio is 3:1 by mass, preparing enough mortar for
three cubes:
Mix, using the two trowels, the dry ingredients for 1 min on a clean dry,
non-absorbent surface, and then add enough water to produce a mortar of a
consistency judged to be suitable for brick-laying purposes. The water may be added
at intervals during the miring, and mixing shall be continued for not less than 3 min
and not more than 5 min after the final quantity of water has been added.

NOTE : A suitable mechanical mixer may be used provided that the above mixing sequence
is followed and that material adhering to parts of the miser is scraped off at least once
during the wet mixing process.

3.1.2 Moulding
Fill the moulds with the mortar and compact thoroughly by any means found suitable.
Ensure that all ¨moulds are filled and compacted in exactly the same manner. Cut off
the excess mortar flush with the top of the mould, using a straight-edge drawn with a
sawing mnotion accros the top of the mould. Ensure that the top edge of the mould
is free from loose sand grains, and place the cover plate in position.

3.1.3 Curing.
Unless the use of Method 3 is necessary use either Method 1 or Method 2.

a) Method 1.
Immediately after filling them place the moulds in the curing cabinet for 2 h . Then
transfer the specimens (in the covered moulas) to the steam cabinet, close the cabinet,
raise the temperature at a uniform rate such that a ,steam temperature of 85-95 • C is
reached in 2 h, and maintain this temperature for 24 h . Then decrease the temperature
(at a n~iform rate) over a period of 2 h until a temperature of 22-25 • C is obtained.
Remove the specimens from the mould,s and determine their compressive strength
immediately.

b) Method 2.
Immediately after filling them, place the moulds in the curing cabinet for 24 ± ½ h .
Then remove the specimens from their moulds and immerse them in clean water in a
 curing bath maintained at 22-25 • C. Seven days ± 1 h after completion of moulding,
remove the cubes from the curing bath and determine their compressive strength
immediately.

c) Method 3.
As in (b) above except that the cube, are removed from the curing bath 28 days ± 2 h
after completion of moulding.

3.2 Washed sand.

Make and cure as in 3.1, three cubes, using exactly the same mix proportions,
cement and water : cement ratio as were used in 3.1 but using some of the sand from
the same test sample that has been washed as follows:

Add to the sand enough water to cover it completely, stir well, and allow to stand for
24 h. Then add more water until the water level is about 150 mm above that of the
sand, stir well, allow to stand for 30 min (but if clay or fines remain in suspension for
longer th n 30 min, prolong the settling period to not more than 60 min), and then
siphon off the water to a depth of about 25 mn above the sand ensuring that no solids
are removed during the process. Carry out the above proceaure of washing and
siphoning off the water at least three times. Finally dry the sand at 100-110 • C.

NOTE : The colour of the supernatant water above the sand is not necessarily and indication
of the presence of clay or fines as certain soluble matter may produce the same
effect. If the washing is done in a glass vessel and the vessel is heId against the light,
the presence or absence of fine so1ids can readily be detected.

SECTION 4. PROCEDURE

4.1 Immediately after removal of the cube under test from the curing bath or steam cabinet
(as relevant), remove any loose particles, etc. by wiping the sides of the cube, then
place it (on a side and without packing) in the compression testinB machine, apply the
load at a steady rate of 35 ± 5 MPa/min until the cube collapses, and record the
minimum pressure withstood by the cube. Repeat the test on the remaining cubes.

SECTION 5. CALCULATIONS

5.1 a) Calculate the average compressive strength, in mega pascals, of each set of three
cubes by dividing the avarage crushing force, in newtons, of the three cubes by the
area of the side to which the force was applied.

b) Record, to the nearest 0,5 MPa, the average compressive strength of each set of
three cubes, and calculate the average strength of the three cubes made with the
unwashed sand as a percentage of the average strength of the three cubes made with
the washed sand.

c) If, when curing Method 1 or 2 is used, this percentage is less than the value
specified in the relevant specification or agreed upon between purchaser and supplier,
discard the result and repeat the test using curing Method 3.
 May 1976

Approved by the
COUNCIL OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN BUREAU OF STANDARDS
COPYRIGHT RESERVED
ISBN 0-626-03885-5
 METHOD B13

THE DETERMINATION OF THE FINENESS MODULUS OF FINE AGGREGATES

SCOPE

The fineness modulus is a measure of the average grain size of a fine aggregate and is
computed by adding the cumulative percentages retained on the sieves mentioned in
paragraph 3, and dividing the sum by 100.

2 APPARATUS

The same as for Method B4.

3 METHOD

Determine the sieve analysis of the aggregate as described in Method B4 using the
following series of sieves: 4,75 mm, 2,36 mm, 1,18 mm, 0.600 mm, 0,300 mm and
0,150 mm.

4 CALCULATIONS

4.1 The fraction retained on each sieve is expressed as a percentage of the mass of the test
sample. (As a check, the percentage passing the 0,150 mm sieve can also be calculated
as this percentage, and the percentages retained on the sieves should add up to 100.)

4.2 Calculate the cumulative percentages retained on each sieve.

4.3 Determine the sum of the cumulative percentages retained on the sieves.

4.4 Calculate the Fineness Modulus (FM) to the first decimal place as follows:

sum of cumulative percentages retained

FM =
100
and record it to the nearest first decimal place on Form B4/2 (or a similar form).

REFERENCE

SABS Method 829

 METHOD B14

THE DETERMINATION OF THE DRY BULK DENSITY, APPARENT RELATIVE

DENSITY AND WATER ABSORPTION OF AGGREGATE RETAINED ON A
4,75 mm SIEVE

SCOPE

The dry bulk density and apparent relative density of the + 4,75 mm material, as
defined below, are calculated from the loss in mass of the saturated surface-dry
aggregate when it is submerged in water.

The water absorption is determined by calculating the mass of water absorbed after
the 24-hour immersion in water of the oven-dried material .

Definition

Relative density is the ratio of the mass in air of a given volume of a material at a
stated temperature to the mass in air of an equal volume of distilled water at the same
temperature.

Bulk relative density is the ratio of the mass in air of a given volume of material
(including the permeable and impermeable voids normal to the material) at a stated
temperature to the mass in air of an equal volume of distilled water at the same
temperature.

Apparent relative density is the ratio of the mass in air of a given volume of material
(excluding the permeable voids but including the impermeable voids normal to the
material) at a stated temperature to the mass in air of an equal volume of distilled
water at the same temperature

2 APPARATUS

2.1 A balance with a capacity of 5 kg, accurate to 0,5 gram.

2.2 A wire basket, approximately 200mm in diameter and 200 mm high, manufactured
from a 3,35 mm screen.

2.3 A suitable container with water for immersing the wire basket and a suitable
arrangement for suspending the wire basket from the centre of the balance pan.

2.4 A thermometer measuring 0-100 • C.

2.5 A drying oven, thermostatically controlled and capable of maintaining a temperature

of 105 to 110 • C.

3 METHOD

Quarter out approximately 3 kg of the material retained on the 4,75 mm sieve. Wash
 the sample thoroughly to remove dust from the surfaces of the particles and soak for
24 hours in water. Remove the material from the water, drain off the free water for a
few seconds and transfer it to a large absorbent cloth. In order to obtain the so-called
saturated surface-dry condition, the sample is rolled in the cloth until all visible water
has been absorbed, but the surfaces of the particles should still appear damp.

Large-aggregate particles may be wiped individually. As soon as the surface-dry

condition is reached, weigh the sample, accurate to 0,5 gram, and transfer it to a wire
basket that has previously been weighed in water. Weigh the basket with sample in
water at 25± 1 • C taking care that no air is entrapped (see 5.1).

Remove the sample from the wire basket, allow the free water to drain off and then
dry it to a constant mass in an oven at a temperature of 105 to 110• C.

Weigh the oven-dried sample.

This test must be done in duplicate.

4 CALCULATIONS

4.1 Calculate the dry bulk density and apparent relative density to the nearest 0,001 from
the following formulae:

A
Dry bulk density (25/25 • C) =
B−C
A
Apparent relative density (25/25 • C) =
A−C
where :

A = mass of oven-dry sample in air

B = mass of saturated surface-dry sample in air
C = mass of saturated sample in water at 25 • C

Duplicate results should agree within ± 0,005 or be repeated.

4.2 Calculate the percentage of water absorbed to the nearest 0,1 from the following
formula:

( B − A)
Water absorption m/m = x 100
A
Report relative density to the nearest 0,001 and water absorption to the nearest 0,1.
5 NOTES

5.1 The standard temperature is taken as 25 • C. If the test is done at any other
temperature, this should be stated or the RD should be adjusted for a temperature of
25 • C.

5.2 The relative density of material retained on the 4,75 mm sieve can also be determined
by using a pycnometer (see Method B15). The volume of the pycnometer should then
be between 1000 and 3 000 ml.

5.3 Samples containing material passing and retained on the 4,75 mm sieve must be
divided by means of this sieve and the appropriate test method used on the separate
samples. The relative density of the total material must then be calculated as follows:

100
Relative density of the total material =
P1 P2
+
G1 G 2
Where :

P1 = percentage of material passing the 4,75 mm sieve

P2 = percentage of material retained on the 4,75 mm sieve
G1 = relative density of the material passing the 4,75 mm sieve
G2 = relative density of the material retained on the 4,75 mm sieve

5.4 When only the apparent relative density is required, the determination of the saturated
surface-dry mass of the sample in air is not required.

REFERENCES

ASTM Designation C127-73 and D854-58

AASHTO Designation T85-70
SABS Method 843 and 844
 METHOD B15

THE DETERMINATION OF THE DRY BULK DENSITY, APPARENT RELATIVE

DENSITY AND WATER ABSORPTION OF MATERIAL PASSING THE 4,75 mm
SIEVE

SCOPE

The dry bulk density and apparent relative density of the --4,75 mm material, as
defined below, are calculated from the loss in mass of the saturated surface-dry
aggregate when it is sub-merged in water.

The water absorption is determined by calculating the percentage of water absorbed

by the oven-dried material, after the 24-hour immersion in water.

Definitions

Relative density is the ratio of the mass in air of a given volume of a material at a
stated temperature to the mass in air of an equal volume of distilled water at the same
temperature.

Bulk relative density is the ratio of the mass in air of a given volume of material
(including permeable and impermeable voids normal to the material) at a stated
temperature, to the mass in air of an equal volume of distilled water, at the same
temperature.

Apparent relative density is the ratio of the mass in air of a given volume of material
(excluding the permeable voids but including the impermeable voids normal to the
material) at a stated temperature to the mass in air of an equal volume of distilled
water at the same temperature.

2 APPARATUS

2.1 A pycnometer of suitable capacity, at least two times the space required to
accommodate the sample (see 5.1 ) .

2.2 A balance with a capacity of at least 200 gram and accurate to 0,001 gram for a
50-100 ml pycnometer, and a balance with a capacity of at least 2 000 gram, accurate
to 0,01 gram, for a 500-1000 ml pycnometer.

2.3 A vacuum pump capable of maintaining a reduced pressure of 100 mm mercury.

2.4 A water bath capable of maintaining a temperature of 25 +1 • C.

2.5 A thermometer measuring 0-100°C.

2.6 A spatula or spoon.

2.7 A glass stirring rod.

2.8 A drying oven thermostatically controlled and capable of maintaining a temperature of

105 to 110• C .

2.9 A 25 ml pipette.

2.10 A metal mould in the form of a frustum of a cone with the following inner
dimensions: top diameter, 37,5 1 mm; bottom diameter, 90 ± 1 mm; height, 75 ±1
mm; and a minimum metal thickness of 0,8 mm.

2.11 A metal tamping rod weighing 340 ± 15 gram and having a flat circular tamping face
25 ± 3 mm in diameter.

3 METHOD

3.1 By means of riffling obtain a sample of the material to be tested, passing the 4,75 mm
sieve

The size of the test sample must be as follows:

Soil with a relatively high percentage passing the 0,075 mm sieve: approximately 25
gram

Sandy soil, sand and other fine aggregate: approximately 300 gram (see 5.2).

Cover the sample with water in a suitable container and soak for 24 + 4 hours. When
the sample is in a natural soaked condition, the soaking time may be reduced (see 5.3).

3.2 Determination of the bulk relative density and apparent relative density

(It is not possible to determine the bulk relative density of cohesive soils because it is
not possible to obtain the saturated surface-dry condition.)

3.2.1 After soaking the sample, drain off the free water and spread the sample on a flat
surface exposed to a gently moving current of warm air. Stir the sample frequently to
ensure uniform drying. Drying may be facilitated by spreading the sample on a porous
surface such as heavy wrapping paper. Continue this drying operation until the
material approaches a free-flowing condition.

Place the conical mould on a flat, nonabsorbent surface with the smaller opening
facing upwards and fill it loosely to overflowing with the partially dried material.
Tamp the surface of the material lightly 25 times with the tamping rod. Do not add
additional material during or after tamping. Lift the mould vertically. If the material
retains its conical shape, free water is still present.

Continue drying, with constant stirring, and test at frequent intervals until the cone of
material slumps upon removal of the mould. This indicates that a saturated
surface-dry condition has been reached. If the cone of material slumps upon removal
 of the cone on the first trial, it may have been dried past the saturated surface-dry
condition. In this case. thoroughly mix a few ml of water in the sample and permit it
to stand in a covered container for 30 minutes. The process of drying and testing must
then be resumed.

3.2.2 When the saturated surface-dry condition is reached, transfer the material immediately
to a clean tared pycnometer and weigh, accurate to 0,001gram for a 50-100 ml
pycnometer and to 0,01gram for a 500-1000 ml pycnometer. The pycnometer should
have a capacity of at least twice the space required to accommodate the sample (see
also 3.3).

3.2.3 Add distilled water to the sample in the pycnometer until it is about three-quarters
full. Remove entrapped air by subjecting the sample to a partial vacuum (air pressure
approximately 100 mm mercury) for a few minutes. This can be done by connecting
the pycnometer directly to an aspirator or vacuum pump, or by using a bell jar. Some
soils boil violently when subjected to reduced air pressure and in such cases the
pressure should be increased. Place the pycnometer and contents in a constant
temperature bath at 25 + 1 • C and leave until the contents of the pycnometer are at
this temperature (approximately 20 minutes)(see 5.4). Fill the pycnometer with
distilled water at 25 • C with a pipette up to.the mark (see 5.5 and 5.6). Dry the
pycnometer quickly and thoroughly, and weigh it

3.2.4 Gently pour off the water without spil ling any of the sample. Dry the pycnometer
with its contents to a constant mass in an oven at 105 to 110• C and weigh it. If the
water in the pycnometer contains suspended material the water should not be poured
off but the total quantity dried (see 5.7). Clean the pycnometer, fill with distilled water
at 25• C, dry the outside and weigh it. Record the mass determinations on a suitable
data sheet.

3.3 Determination of the apparent relative density only

After soaking the sample, as described in paragraph 3.1, transfer it to a clean, tared
pycnometer. The capacity of the pycnometer must be at least twice the space required
to accommodate the sample. Normally this will be:

for a sample of approximately 25 gram, a50- 100 ml pycnometer;

for a sample of approximately 300gram. a 500 - 1000 ml pycnometer.

Proceed as described in paragraphs 3 2.3 and 3.2.4. Record the determinations of mass
on a suitable data sheet.

4 CALCULATIONS

4.1 Calculate the bulk relative density and apparent relative density to the nearest 0.001
from the following formulae:
 Dry bulk relative density (25 / 25 ° C) =

A− E
( D − E ) − (C − B )

Apparent relative density (25 / 25 ° C) =

A− E
( D − E ) − (C − A)
where :

A = mass of oven-dry sample and pycnometer

B = mass of saturated surface-dry sample plus pycnometer
C = mass of saturated sample and pycnometer filled with water
D = mass of pycnometer filled with water only
E = mass of clean, dry pycnometer.

4.2 Calculate the percentage of water absorption to the nearest 0,1 from the following
formula:

Percentage of water absorption (m / m) =

B− A
x 100
A− E
4.3 Report the bulk relative density and apparent relative density to the nearest 0,001 and
water absorption to the nearest 0,1 per cent.

5 NOTES

5.1 The pycnometer may be a relative density flask with a perforated glass stopper or a
volumetric flask or any other glass container equipped with a suitable means of
ensuring that it can be filled to constant volume.

5.2 When the particle size of the grains is widely distributed, the test will not be wholly
repeatable and more or larger samples should be tested .

5.3 Clayey materials should be mechanically dispersed to facilitate testing.

5.4 The standard temperature is taken as 25• C. The test may, however, be done at any
 temperature in which case the relative density may be corrected to the relative density
at 25• C, or the temperature at which the test was done must be stated, i.e. relative
density at Tx/Tx • C.

55 Some materials tend to foam, thus interfering with the filling of the pycnometer. A
drop or two of amyl alcohol will disperse the foam without affecting the test.

5.6 Organic material included in the weighed sample should not be removed. If it
interferes with the test it may be removed, dried and weighed. This mass should then
be deducted from the dry mass of the sample

5.7 When a soil sample is oven-dried there is a possibility of driving off chemically-held
water. Samples with water in the chemical composition should be dried at a lower
temperature at reduced air pressure.

5.8 Paraffin is a better wetting agent than water. Finer-grained samples may therefore be
tested with paraffin and the relative density corrected accordingly. When paraffin is
used the sample must be oven-dried before testing and the paraffin should be free of
any water.

59 When the sample contains material both passing and retained on the 4,75 mm sieve.
the relative density of the total sample is calculated as in Method B14, Section 5.4.

REFERENCES

AASHTO Designation T84~0 and T100-60

ASTM Designation D854-58 and C128
SABS Methods 843 and 844
 METHOD B16 T

THE QUANTITATIVE DETERMINATION OF THE TOTAL WATER-SOLUBLE

SALTS IN SOILS AND AGGREGATES

1 SCOPE

In this method the water-soluble salts in soils and aggregates are quantitatively
determined by shaking the material for 24 hours with water and determining the mass
of salts present in a filtered aliquot. The procedure described in SABS. Method 849 is
followed.

2 APPARATUS

As for .SABS Method 849.

3 METHOD

Follow SABS Method 849.

4 CALCULATIONS

Calculate and report the results as in SABS Method 849.

5 NOTES

The filtrate obtained in this method is used for determining the water-soluble
sulphates in Method B17

S.A. BUREAU 0F STANDARDS STANDARD METHODS

SABS Method 849

Water-soluble salts content (total) of fine aggregates and of fine aggregates for
base-courses

SECTION 1. APPARATUS

1.1 Sieves, complying with SABS 197 “ Test sieves “ and of the following nominal
aperture sizes: 4,75 mm, 1,70 mm, and 425 • m

1.2 Mortar and rubber-covered pestle

1.3 Stohmann flasks, of 500 ml capacity

1.4 Shaker.
 A rotating mechanical shaker capable of inverting the Stohmann flasks at a rate of
26-30 times per min .

1.5 Witt filter apparatus, fitted with a Buchner funnel of diameter about 90 mm .

1.6 Evaporating dish, of nominal capacity 75 ml, dried at 105-110 • C and tared.

SECTION 2. PREPARATION OF TEST SPECIMEN

2.1 Fine aggregates

a) Dry about 400 gram of the test sample (see SABS Method 828) at a temperature not
exceeding 80 • C for at least 16 h and then grind it until it all passes a 1,70 mm sieve.
By means of a sample splitter or by coning and quartering obtain a test specimen of
mass about 100 g, and grind it un til it all passes a 425 am sieve.

b) Dry the test specimen at a temperature of 75-80 °C until, after two successive
drying periods of 4 h, the decrease in mass does not exceed 0,1 % of the total mass,
and cool it to room temperature in a desiccator.

2.2 Base-course materials

a) Dry a mass of the test sample (see SABS Method 828) estimated to contain about
400 g of material passing a 425 am sieve for at least 16 h at a temperature not
exceeding 80 • C, allow to cool, and sieve on a 4,75 mm sieve and a 1,70 mm sieve
superimposed on a pan.

b) Break up any aggregations of smaller particles (taking care not to reduce the size of
individual grains) in the portion passing the 4,75 mm sieve and retained on the
1,70 mm sieve by placing it in the mortar and rubbing it with the rubber-covered
pestle.

c) Sieve this portion again on the 1,70 mm sieve, add it to the material in the pan, and
sieve the mixture on a 425 • m sieve. Place the portion retained on the 425 • m sieve
in the mortar, rub it as in (b) above, and again sieve thoroughly on the 425 • m sieve.

d) Combine the fines (i.e. all the material that has passed the 425 • m sieve) and mix
well. By means of a sample splitter or by coning and quartering obtain a test
specimen, of mass about 100 g, of the fines, and dry and cool it as in 2.1(b).

SECTION 3. PROCEDURE

NOTE: Alll water used shall be distilled or demineralized water.

3.1 Extraction of water-soluble salts

a) Weigh out accurately about 25 g of the test specimen in to a Stohmann flask and
add exactly 500 ml of water. Stopper the flask and shake continuously for 24 h on the
shaker. Remove the flask from the shaker and allow the undissolved material to settle
by allowing the flask to stand undisturbed for at least 1 h .

b) Place a dry 600 ml beaker in the Witt filter apparatus and a double layer of glass
 fibre filter paper of fine texture1 on the Buchner funnel, and wet the paper with a few
drops of the aqueous eatract (see (a) above).

c) using low vacuum and ensuring that the sediment in the flask is not disturbed, filter
about 400 ml of the aqueous extract through the filter paper. Then shake the flask
vigorously until all the sediment is in suspension and, by rapidly pouring the
suspension into the Buchner funnel, attempt to transfer as much as possible of the
undissolved material into the funnel. Do not add additional water to the flask to aid in
this operation. Complete the filtration by evacuation but do not allow the filter paper
to become dry. Do not wash the residue on the filter paper.

d) add about 0,5 g of dry filter paper pulp to the filtrate and stir until the paper pulp
has disintegrated completely and is in suspension. Cover the residue in the Buchner
funnel with a glass fibre filter paper of fine texture1 and filter the filtrate through the
Buchner funnel again, using low vacuum, into a clean and dry suction flask. Do not
wash the residue in the Buchner funnel.

e) The filtrate should now be clear and contain no undissolved material in suspension.
If this is not the case, repeat (d) above.

3.2 Recovery of water-soluble salts

a) By means of a pipette transfer 200 ma of the filtrate to a beaker of capacity about
400 ml, boil until the volume of the solution is about 50 ml, and transfer
quantitatively to the dry tared evaporating dish, washing the beaker three times with
warm water and adding the washings to the solution in the evaporating dish.

b) Evaporate the contents of the evaporating dish to dryness on a water bath, then
transfer the dish to an oven maintained at a temperature of 105-110 • C and dry for 1 h
Cool the evaporating dish and its contents to room temperature in a desiccator,
determine its mass, and calculate the mass of the contents of the evaporating dish.

3.3 Blank determination

. Carry out a blank determination by following the procedures given in 3.1 and 3.2
but omitting the 25 g of test specimen. Subtract the mass of any residue found in the
evaporating dish from the mass found in 3.2(b) above and record this corrected mass
(Mass A) as the mass of water-soluble salts in the 200 ma of filtrate.

SECTION 4. CALCULATION

4.1 Calculate, as follows, the water-soluble salts content of the fine aggregate or the fines
(as relevant):

A x 5
Total water-soluble salts content, a (m/m) = x 100
B x 2

1
Whatman GF/C or equivalent
 where :
a = mass of soluble salts found in 200 ml of the extract, g
b = mass of the specimen taken for extraction, g

May 1976

Approved by the
COUNCIL OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN BUREAU OF STANDARDS
COPYRIGHT RESERVED Sabs pts

ISBN 0-626-03915-0
 METHOD B17 T

THE QUANTITATIVE DETERMINATION OF WATER-SOLUBLE

SULPHATES IN SOILS AND AGGREGATES

1 SCOPE

In this method an aliquot of the filtrate obtained in Method B16 is treated with barium
chloride and the sulphates gravimetrically determined in the precipitated barium
sulphate. The procedure described in SABS Method 850 is followed .

2 APPARATUS

As for SABS Method 850.

3 METHOD

Follow SABS Method 850.

4 CALCULATIONS

Calculate and report the results as in SABS Method 850.

S.A. BUREAU OF STANDARDS STANDARD METHODS

SABS Method 850

Water-soluble sulphates content of fine aggregates and of fines in aggregates for

base-courses

SECTION 1. REAGENTS

NOTE: All water used shall be distilled or demineralized.

1.1 Bromine solution.

A saturated solution of bromine in water.

1.2 Hydrochloric acid.

Concentrated (relative density 1,16 at 20 • /20 • C).

1.3 Barium Chloride solution.

Dissolve 10 g of reagent grade barium dihydrate (BaC12.2H20) in water and dilute to
100 ml .
SECTION 2. PREPARATION OF TEST SPECIMEN

2.1
A solution of water-soluble salts prepared, extracted, and filtered as in SABS Method
849.

SECTION 3. PROCEDURE

a) By means of a pipette transfer 200 ml of the filtrate to a beaker of capacity about

400 ml . Add 3 ml of the bromine solution and 1 ml of the hydrochloric acid, mix and
heat to boiling, and boil until all the bromine has been driven off. Make up the volume
of the solution to 200 ml by adding boiling water.

b) By means of a pipette add, drop by drop, 10 ml of the barium chloride solution

(pre-warmed) while stirring the contents of the beaker continuously. Boil the contents
of the beaker for 2 min, then place the beaker on a water bath for at least 2 h, and stir
the contents occasionally. Allow the precipitate to settle overnight.

c) Filter off the precipitate, using a fine textured filter paper1 and transfer the
precipitate quantitatively on to the filter paper with the aid of a jet of warm water from
a wash bottle. Wash the filter paper and precipitate with consecutive small volumes
of warm water until the filtrate is free from chlorides.

NOTE: The presence of chlorides can be detected by putting a drop of silver nitrate solution
(5 % (m/v)) into about 10 ml of the filtrate. If chlorides are present a milky
suspension will be formed.

d) Place the filter paper and precipitate in an ignited and tared platinum crucible, char
the paper slowly (without inflaming), then increase the temperature and maintain it at
just under 600 • C until all carbon has burnt off. Finally ignite at a temperature of
800-900 • C for 30 min, cool the crucible in a desiccator to room temperature, and
determine the mass of the residue (barium sulphate).

e) Carry out a blank determination by following the procedures described in (a)-(d)

above us~ng the same quantities of reagents but omitting the 25 g of test specimen,
and correct the mass of the barium sulphate residue accordingly.

SECTION 4. CALCULATION

4.1 Calculate, as follows, the water-soluble sulphates content of the fine aggregate or the
fines (as relevant) :

A x 34.3 x 5
Water-soluble sulphates content =
B x 2
1
Whatmans No 42 or equivalent
(expressed as SO3), % (m/m)

where :
A = mass of barium sulphate found in 200 ml of the extract, as corrected, g
B = mass of the specimen taken for extraction, g

May 1976

Approved by the
COUNCIL OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN BUREAU OF STANDARDS
COPYRIGHT RESERVED

ISBN 0-626-03917-7
 METHOD B18(b)T Ver. 2001/03

COMPUTATIONAL METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF THE AVERAGE LEAST DIMENSION OF

SURFACING AGGREGATES.

1 SCOPE
The average least dimension (ALD) of surfacing aggregates is determined from the gradation and the
flakiness index.

2 APPARATUS

None

3 METHOD

Carry out the sieve analyses according to method B4. Use method B3 to determine the flakiness index.

4 CALCULATION

4.1 From the gradation information calculate the median value to an accuracy of 0,001 mm as follows:

A = Log10 (S L )

P − PL
B = r
PU − PL

C = Log10 (S U ) − Log10 (S L )

A +B⋅C
Q r = 10

4.2 For each r calculate Qr

r 1 2 3 4 5

Pr 10 25 50 75 90

where

SL : The first sieve where the material passing is less

than Pr %.
SU : The first sieve where the material passing is greater
than Pr %.
PL : Percentage passing SL
PU : Percentage passing SU

4.3 Calculate the particle size distribution parameters

Median: Me = Q3

K-value: K = ( Q4 – Q2 ) / 2( Q5 – Q1 )

TMH1 – B18(b)T – Ver. 2001/03 1

 METHOD B18(b)T Ver. 2001/03

COMPUTATIONAL METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF THE AVERAGE LEAST DIMENSION OF

SURFACING AGGREGATES.

S-value: S = ( Q5 - 2Q3 + Q1 ) / ( Q5 – Q1 )

TMH1 – B18(b)T – Ver. 2001/03 2

4.4 Calculate the ALDc to an accuracy of 0,001 mm as follows:

f (Me, Fr) = A0 + A1Me + A2Fr

g(Fi, K, S) = B0 + B1Fi + B2K + B3S

where

Me : Median value in mm. A0 = 0,064 402

Fr : Fraction (%) discarded. A1 = 0,245 081
Fi : Flakiness index (%). A2 = - 0,014 381
K : K-value B0 = 3,270 825
S : S-value B1 = - 0,019 573
B2 = - 0,149 364
B3 = 0,326 787

ALDc = f (Me, Fr) ⋅ g(Fi, K, S)

5 Example

< 26,5 mm < 19,0 mm < 13,2 mm < 9,5 mm < 6,7 mm < 4,75 mm Fraction Flakiness
discarded index (%)
100 99,9 99,2 59,2 14,7 5,2 5,2 21,3

r Pr SL SU PL PU A B C Qr
1 10 4,75 6,7 5,2 14,7 0,676 693 0,505 263 0,149 381 5,651 586
2 25 6,7 9,5 14,7 59,2 0,826 074 0,231 460 0,151 648 7,263 994
3 50 6,7 9,5 14,7 59,2 0,826 074 0,793 258 0,151 648 8,838 355
4 75 9,5 13,2 59,2 99,2 0,977 723 0,394 999 0,142 850 10,818 062
5 90 9,5 13,2 59,2 99,2 0,977 723 0,769 999 0,142 850 12,238 222

Me K S ALDc
8,838 355 0,269 793 0,032 353 6,088 212

6 NOTES

6.1 The computational method is intended for use as a quick assessment of the ALD.

6.2 The direct measurement method B18(a) is still the reference method.

6.3 For reporting purposes round the ALDc off to the nearest 0,01 mm.

7 REFERENCES

7.1 Surface Dressing by G.P. Jackson, published by the Bitumen Division, SHELL International Petroleum Co.
LTD., London, 1963.

7.2 A new computational method to determine the Average Least Dimension (ALD), P.A.W.C., PT-2000/1.

TMH1 – B18(b)T – Ver. 2001/03 3

 METHOD B19

THE DETERMINATION OF THE SAND EQUIVALENT OF AGGREGATES

1 SCOPE

This method is intended to serve as a rapid test to show the presence or absence of
detrimental fines or clay-like materials in soils or mineral aggregates. The relative
proportion is measured on a volume basis in the fraction passing the 4,75 mm sieve.

The procedure described in SABS Method 838 is used.

2 APPARATUS

As in SABS Method 838.

3 METHOD

Use SABS Method 838.

4 CALCULATIONS

Calculate and report the results as in SABS Method 838

S A BUREAU OF STANDARDS STANDARD METHODS

SABS Method 838

Sand equivalent value of fine aggregates

SECTION 1. APPARATUS (see Fig. 1)1

a) Measuring cylinder.
A transparent, graduated measuring cylinder of internal diameter 31,75 mm and height
about 430 mm, and graduated (from the bottom) up to at least 381 mm in divisions of
not more than 2,54 mm .

b) Irrigator tube.
Brass or copper tubing of nominal outside diameter 6,35 mm and length at least 500
mm, the lower end of which is so flattened and sealed as to form a wedge with a
watertight base. The wedge has, near the bottom of each flat face, a hole of nominal
diameter 1 mm .
c) Reservoir.

1
Further details of the apparatus are given in ASTM D2419 “ Sand equivalent value
os soils and fine aggregate”.
 A glass container of capacity at least 4 L and fitted with a siphon assembly consisting
of a stopper with two holes, one of which is fitted with a blow tube and the other with
a bent copper tube to which is attached a length of 5 mm diameter rubber tubing with
a pinch clamp (to stop the flow when 80 required). The reservoir shall be located on
a shelf that is at such a height as to maintain the liquid level at a height of between
0,915 m and 1,170 m above the work surface.

d) Weighted foot assembly.

A brass rod of diameter 6,35 mm and length 450 mm and having, at the lower end, a
25,4 mm diameter conical bronze foot that has three small centring screws that enable
the foot to be centred loosely in the measuring cylinder. An acrylic, plastic, or nylon
indicator, of the shape and dimensions shown in Fig. 1 and provided with a filing
screw, shall be fired to the brass rod in such a position that the distance between the
upper end of the indicator and the lower end of the weighted foot is 200 mm . The
brass rod moves freely through a hole in a guide which fits the top of the cylinder. A
mild steel mass-piece, of diameter 50 mm and length about 53 mm, is screwed to the
top end of the brass rod to provide a total mass of the assembly (excluding the guide)
of 1000 ± 5g.

e) Measure.
A measure of internal diameter approximately 55 mm and capacity 85 ± 5 ml and
provided with a cover. The measure may be of any suitable material which will
not deform during normal usage.

f) Stop-watch

SECTION 2. STOCK AND WORKING SOLUTSIONS

2.1 Stock solution.

Dissolve 454 g of technical grade anhydrous calcium chloride in about 2 L distilled or
demineralized water. Cool the solution and filter it through a medium-textured,
smooth-surface filter paper. Add to the filtered solution, 2,05 g of glycerine (3P grade)
and 47 g of a 40 % (m/v) solution of formaldehyde, mix well, and dilute to 3,78 L
with distilled or demineralized water.

2.2 Working solution.

Prepare a working solution by diluting one measure (85 ± 5 ml) of the stock solution
to 3,78 L with distilled or demineralized water, and maintain the temperature of the
solution at 22-25 °C throughout the test.

SECTION 3. PREPARATION OF TEST SPECIMEN

a) Sieve the test sample (see SABS Method a2s) (which may have been dampened to
avoid segregation and loss of fines) through a sieve with square apertures of nominal
size 4,75mzm . Remove all fines adhering to the sieve and add to the material passing
through the sieve. By means of a sample splitter or by coning and quartering obtain an
initial sample of this material.
 b) Determine the exact amount of initial sample needed to completely fill the measure
by scooping out four successive measures of the initial sample ensuring (at each
filling) that the measure is accurately filled with consolidated material by overfilling
it, tapping the bottom edge of the measure on a hard surface, jogging the measure
slightly, and then striking off the material level with the rim of the measure.
Determine the amount (by mass or by volume) of material contained in the four
measures, return this material to the initial sample, and mix well.

c) By splitting or coning and quartering as in (a) above (followed, if necessary, by

adjusting) obtain a quantity of the initial sample equal to the predetermined amount.

d) Obtain, as in (c) above, the amount of material needed to fill one measure (i.e. the
test specimen). Dry the test specimen at 100-110 • C and allow it to cool to room
temperature.

SECTION 4. PROCEDURE

a) Siphon the working solution into the measuring cylinder to a depth of 100-102,5
mm and, using a wide-mouth funnel to avoid spillage, add the prepared test specimen.
Tap the cylinder on the heel of the hand to release air bubbles and to promote
thorough wetting of the material. Allow to stand undisturbed for 10 + 1 min .

b) At the end of the 10 min soaking period, stopper the cylinder, and loosen the
material from the bottom by partially inverting the cylinder and simultaneously
shaking it. Then shake the cylinder and its contents as follows:

Holding the cylinder in a horizontal position, subject it (during the period of

approximately 30 seconds) to 90 shaking cycles, each cycle consisting of a to-and-fro
motion over a distance of 230 + 25 mm . (Proper shaking of the cylinder at the
required rate is achieved if the operator uses his forearms only, relaxing the body and
shoulders.)

NOTE: It is very important that the shaking is done exactly as described because the manner
of shaking influences the result of this test.

c) After shaking, place the cylinder upright on the work table and remove the stopper.
Connect the irrigator tube to the rubber tubing attached to the siphon, open the pinch
clamp, and push the irrigator through the material to the bottom of the cylinder by
applying a gentle stabbing and twisting action while the working solution flows from
the irrigator tip. This flushes the fine material into suspension above the coarser sand
particles. Continue to apply a stabbing and twisting action while flushing the fines
upward until the cylinder is filled to the 381 mm mark. Then, without shutting off the
flow, raise the irrigator at such a rate that the liquid level is maintained at about 380
mm while the irrigator is being withdrawn. Just before the irrigator is entirely
withdrawn decrease the rate of flow and adjust the final level to exactly 381 mm .
Allow the cylinder and contents to stand undisturbed for 20 min ± 15 seconds, starting
the timing immediately after withdrawing the irrigator tube.

d) At the end of the 20 min sedimentation period, read and record the level of the top
 of the fines suspension. This is the "fines reading”. If no clear line of demarcation
has formed at the end of the specified 20 min sedimentation period, allow the cylinder
and contents to stand undisturbed until a fines reading can be obtained, then
immediately read and record the level of the top of the fines suspension and the total
sedimentation time.

e) If the total sedimentation time exceeds 30 min, repeat the test on a further three test
specimens of the same material (prepared from the remainder of the initial sample
used in Section 3(d)) and record only the fines column height of the specimen that
required the shortest sedimentation period.

f) After the fines reading has been taken, locate the guide of the weighted foot
assembly on the top of the cylinder and gently lower the assembly until it comes to
rest on the sand. Dot not allow the indicator to knock against the mouth or sides of
the cylinder as the assembly is being lowered. When the foot has come to rest on the
sand, move the assembly carefully towards the graduations on the cylinder until the
indicator just touches the inside of the cylinder. Read the height at the top edge of the
indicator and record this value as the "sand reading". (When taking the sand reading,
take care not to press down on the weighted foot assembly as this could give an
erroneous reading.) If fines or sand reading fall between the graduations of the
cylinder, record the level of the higher graduation as the reading.

SECTION 5. CALCULATION

5.1 Calculate the sand equivalent as follows:

sand reading − 200

Sand equivalent = x 100
fines reading
Record the sand equivalent to the next higher whole number.

May 1976

Approved by the
COUNCIL OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN BUREAU OF STANDARDS
COPYRIGHT RESERVED

ISBN 0-626-03893-6