BACHELOR OF BUILDING SURVEYING
DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING SURVEYING
FACULTY OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT
BIB1016 CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY - HIGH-RISE BUILDING
CONCRETE SLUMP TEST REPORT
SEMESTER 2 2023/2024
LECTURERS :
1. DR. SR BRENNAN BRIT ANAK KAYAN
2. MR. IMADUDDIN ABDUL HALIM
GROUP MEMBERS MATRIC NO
1. CHUNG HONG FATT 23004230
2. FATHIHATUN NATRAH FAISAL 23004275
3. GOH TSE DORN 23004249
4. MUHAMMAD ADAM DANIAL BIN RAZALI 23004212
SUBMISSION DATE :
16 JUNE 2024
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We would like to express our deepest gratitude to Dr. Sr Brennan Brit Anak Kayan and Mr.
Imaduddin Abdul Halim for their invaluable guidance and support throughout the preparation of
this assignment. Their expertise and insights have been instrumental in enhancing our
understanding of the theoretical and practical aspects of concrete as a construction material,
particularly within the context of high-rise building construction.
We would also like to extend our appreciation to the Department of Building Surveying at the
University of Malaya for providing us with the necessary resources and a conducive learning
environment. Our heartfelt thanks go to our fellow students and staff members who have offered
their assistance and encouragement during this project.
Lastly, we acknowledge the collaboration and dedication of our group members—Chung Hong
Fatt, Fathihatun Natrah Faisal, Goh Tse Dorn, and Muhammad Adam Danial Bin Razali. The
collective effort and teamwork have been crucial in the successful completion of this report.
1
ABSTRACT
This assignment report delves into the practical aspects of concrete testing, specifically focusing
on the concrete slump test within the realm of high-rise building construction. The primary
objectives of this assignment are to deepen our theoretical knowledge of concrete as a
fundamental construction material and to explore its characteristics, applications, and
properties. Through a comprehensive analysis of the testing procedure for the concrete slump
test based on a specified concrete mix ratio, we aim to bridge the gap between theoretical
understanding and practical application in the context of high-rise building projects. By adhering
to academic writing standards and referencing guidelines, this report provides a detailed
examination of the testing requirements, apparatus, and procedures involved in conducting the
concrete slump test. The findings and insights derived from this assignment contribute to a
better understanding of the significance of quality construction materials in the construction
industry, particularly in the context of multi-storey building construction.
2
TABLE OF CONTENT
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT................................................................................................................1
ABSTRACT................................................................................................................................... 2
LIST OF FIGURES........................................................................................................................ 4
LIST OF TABLES..........................................................................................................................4
1.0 INTRODUCTION..................................................................................................................... 5
2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW........................................................................................................... 6
3.0 INTRODUCTION TO TESTING, APPARATUS & PROCEDURE.......................................... 8
3.1 REQUIREMENT OF TESTING..........................................................................................8
3.2 APPARATUS......................................................................................................................8
3.2.1 SLUMP CONE.......................................................................................................... 8
3.2.2 TAMPING ROD.........................................................................................................9
3.2.3 BASE PLATE.......................................................................................................... 10
3.2.4 MEASURING CYLINDER....................................................................................... 10
3.2.5 SHOVEL..................................................................................................................11
3.2.6 SAMPLE SCOOP................................................................................................... 12
3.2.7 BUCKET................................................................................................................. 12
3.2.8 WEIGHING SCALE.................................................................................................13
3.2.9 MEASURING SCALE............................................................................................. 14
3.3 PROCEDURE..................................................................................................................14
3.4 RESULT........................................................................................................................... 16
4.0 CONCLUSION.......................................................................................................................19
REFERENCES............................................................................................................................ 20
3
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 3.1 Slump Cone 8
Figure 3.2 Tamping Rod 9
Figure 3.3 Base Plate 10
Figure 3.4 Measuring Cylinder 10
Figure 3.5 Shovel 11
Figure 3.6 Sample Scoop 12
Figure 3.7 Bucket 12
Figure 3.8 Weighing Scale 13
Figure 3.9 Measuring Scale 14
Figure 3.10 Mixing of Concrete 15
Figure 3.11 Lifting the Cone from Concrete 17
Figure 3.12 Types of Slump 17
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1.1 Mixing of Concrete for M15 16
Table 1.2 Concrete Slump Range 18
4
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Concrete is one of the most widely used construction materials globally, and its properties and
applications play a crucial role in the construction of high-rise buildings. This assignment aims to
equip students with a thorough understanding of concrete testing procedures, focusing
particularly on the concrete slump test, a key method for evaluating the workability and
consistency of fresh concrete.
The concrete slump test is a simple yet effective technique that measures the slump or
settlement of freshly mixed concrete after it is removed from a standardised mould. The test
outcomes provide crucial information about the concrete's consistency, which affects its
workability, pumpability, and ease of placement and compaction during construction processes.
Achieving proper workability is critical for ensuring the desired strength, durability, and overall
performance of concrete structures, especially in high-rise building construction, where strict
quality control is essential.
This assignment report will explore the theoretical foundations of concrete testing, concentrating
on the concrete slump test. It will discuss the key characteristics and properties of concrete, the
factors affecting its workability, and the importance of the slump test in maintaining the correct
consistency for various construction applications. Additionally, the report will outline a detailed,
step-by-step procedure for performing the concrete slump test, including the required materials,
equipment, and techniques.
5
2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW
Given its widespread use in the industry, the use of concrete in construction has received
substantial research attention. Concrete is known for its versatility and durability, making it a
popular choice for construction projects, particularly in high-rise buildings (Smith, 2018).
An important characteristic of concrete that affects its application in construction is its
workability. Workability describes the ease with which concrete can be mixed, placed, and
consolidated without causing excessive bleeding or segregation (Jones & McCarthy, 2005). The
Concrete Slump Test is a widely used method to assess the workability of fresh concrete
(Neville, 2011).
The Concrete Slump Test procedure involves filling a cone-shaped mould with fresh concrete,
inverting it, and then lifting the mould to allow the concrete to slump. The resulting difference in
height between the original and slumped concrete is measured to indicate workability (ASTM
C143/C143M, 2010).
Research has examined the correlation between Concrete Slump Test results and the
properties of concrete mixtures. For example, Neville (2011) observed that a higher
water-to-cement ratio in the mix led to a higher slump, indicating increased workability, but also
resulted in reduced strength in the hardened concrete.
In high-rise construction, concrete's workability is particularly critical. High workability facilitates
the pumping of concrete to great heights and ensures it can flow into complex formwork shapes
typical of high-rise buildings (Zhang, 2020).
6
In summary, the literature highlights significant insights into concrete properties and the
importance of the Concrete Slump Test. These insights will be essential for our study on the
application of concrete in high-rise building construction.
7
3.0 INTRODUCTION TO TESTING, APPARATUS &
PROCEDURE
3.1 REQUIREMENT OF TESTING
Before initiating the slump test, it is crucial to ensure that all necessary apparatus are ready for
use and thoroughly cleaned to prevent any contamination of the concrete mix. The duration of
the test must be carefully monitored. Sampling must be completed within 5 minutes, and the
slump test itself must be conducted within 2.5 minutes to accurately assess the properties of the
concrete. Additionally, the testing environment must be appropriate and free from distractions.
Specifically, the testing surface should be flat, level, non-absorbent, and free from external
vibrations, and the area should be sufficiently large to accommodate the slump test procedure
(GlobalGibson, 2024).
3.2 APPARATUS
3.2.1 SLUMP CONE
Figure 3.1 Slump Cone
8
According to Dorji (2024), a slump cone is a metal mould with a smooth interior surface, free
from any dents, used to assess the consistency and workability of freshly mixed concrete. This
tool measures the degree of settling or slumping that occurs once the cone is removed. This
assessment ensures that the concrete mixture has adequate fluidity, facilitating easy placement
and proper compaction, which are essential for achieving the required strength and durability in
construction projects.
3.2.2 TAMPING ROD
Figure 3.2 Tamping Rod
According to C.M.T. (2024), tamping rods are crucial instruments in concrete testing, utilised for
eliminating air voids in various procedures like slump testing, concrete cylinder production, and
air entrainment tests. These rods typically feature hemispherical, rounded ends and are coated
to prevent corrosion.
9
3.2.3 BASE PLATE
Figure 3.3 Base Plate
According to Dorji (2024), the base plate utilised in the slump test is a smooth, rigid, flat, and
non-absorbent steel plate. This plate serves as the foundation on which the slump cone is
positioned during the procedure. The apparatus is specifically designed to work in tandem with
the slump cone to assess the extent of concrete displacement when the mould is removed.
3.2.4 MEASURING CYLINDER
Figure 3.4 Measuring Cylinder
10
According to Nkazi Sciences (2023), a measuring cylinder is a standard laboratory instrument
utilised for determining the volume of liquids. This apparatus features a cylindrical tube, which
can be made of either glass or plastic, characterised by a narrow and uniform diameter. It is
equipped with precise volume markings along its side, ensuring accuracy. Measuring cylinders
are crucial for obtaining accurate measurements in various settings, including scientific
experiments, educational environments, and industrial laboratories.
3.2.5 SHOVEL
Figure 3.5 Shovel
The primary tool for mixing concrete for the slump test is a shovel, ensuring a consistent
mixture before testing.
11
3.2.6 SAMPLE SCOOP
Figure 3.6 Sample Scoop
According to Backus (2024), a sample scoop should be of manageable size to facilitate even
distribution and reduce the need for repeated sampling of fresh concrete. It assists in
transferring freshly mixed concrete from the mixing container to the slump cone, allowing for
careful filling in three layers. This minimises mix segregation and ensures uniform distribution
within the cone. This process is crucial for reliable and consistent assessment of the concrete's
workability and slump value.
3.2.7 BUCKET
Figure 3.7 Bucket
12
Buckets are employed to measure and transport cement, sand, and aggregate for weighing.
Dorji (2023) states that a bucket is also used to transport concrete to the testing location from
the concrete plant.
3.2.8 WEIGHING SCALE
Figure 3.8 Weighing Scale
Pruthviraj (2020) explains that a weighing scale is used to measure the precise quantities of
water, coarse and fine aggregates, and cement according to the mix design before the slump
test. Accurate measurements are essential to ensure the concrete mix meets the specified
proportions, achieving the desired workability and uniformity. The pre-measured mix is then
used in the slump test, ensuring consistency in quality and performance.
13
3.2.9 MEASURING SCALE
Figure 3.9 Measuring Scale
According to Dorji (2024), a measuring scale, such as a ruler, is used to measure the slump
distance after lifting the cone vertically during the slump test.
3.3 PROCEDURE
1. Begin by moistening the slump cone and iron base plate to prevent the concrete from
adhering to these surfaces.
2. Place the base plate on a flat, level surface to ensure stability.
3. Secure the cone in place by standing on its foot pieces.
4. Fill the cone with concrete in three distinct layers, each layer representing approximately
one-third of the cone's height:
a) First Layer: Fill the cone to one-third of its height and compact this layer by
tamping it 25 times with a tamping rod to ensure uniform distribution.
b) Second Layer: Add concrete until the cone is two-thirds full and tamp it 25 times,
ensuring the rod penetrates into the first layer.
14
c) Third Layer: Fill the cone to the top and tamp it 25 times, allowing the rod to
penetrate into the second layer.
5. Slightly heap the concrete above the top of the cone and then strike off the surface level
with the top using the tamping rod.
6. Carefully lift the cone vertically upwards within 5 to 10 seconds to avoid disturbing the
concrete.
7. Place the cone next to the slumped concrete.
8. Measure the vertical distance from the top of the cone to the highest point of the
slumped concrete using a measuring tape or ruler. This measurement, typically around
11 cm, is recorded as the slump value.
Figure 3.10 Mixing of Concrete
15
3.4 RESULT
The concrete mix is grade M7.5 which means that the concrete should withstand a compressive
force of 7.5Mpa after 28 days. The concrete ratio is 1:4:8 meaning 1 part of cement, 4 parts of
sands and 8 parts of coarse aggregate. The water cement ratio as stated to be followed is 0.4.
Therefore the mix of the concrete is as follows:
Table 3.1 Mix of Concrete for M15
No. Materials Quantity
1. Water 0.4776Liter
2. Cement 1.8 kg
3. Sand 5 kg
4. Coarse Aggregate 10 kg
16
Figure 3.11 Lifting the Cone from Concrete
Upon lifting the cone from the concrete ,the concrete remains in its original shape and does not
change its volume significantly. Zero slump happens because of a very low water-cement ratio
in the concrete mix. This can occur when the proportion of water in the mix is significantly lower
than the proportion of cement. As a result, the concrete becomes very dry and stiff, making it
difficult to flow or deform. This type of concrete is often used for road construction due to its high
strength and durability.
Figure 3.12 Types of Slump
17
Table 3.2 Concrete Slump Range
Source : Global Gibson, 2024
Slump, in (mm) Degree of Workability Application
0–1 (0–25) Very low Very dry mixes in paving machines
with high-powered vibration
1–2 (25–50) Low Low-workability mixes used for
foundations with light reinforcement;
Pavements consolidated by
hand-operated vibration
2–4 (50–100) Medium Medium workability mixes manually
consolidated flat slabs. Normal
reinforced concrete manually placed;
heavily reinforced sections with
mechanical vibration.
4–7 (100–175) High High workability concrete for sections
with congested reinforcement; May
not respond well to vibration.
18
4.0 CONCLUSION
The slump test is an essential procedure in construction for assessing the workability and
consistency of fresh concrete mixtures. Its significance lies in ensuring the quality and durability
of concrete structures, particularly in high-rise building projects. By providing immediate
feedback on the concrete's capacity to flow and adequately fill formwork, the slump test helps
maintain consistent and reliable material quality throughout the construction process.
Interpreting the results of slump tests allows for the prediction and optimization of concrete
performance, ensuring it meets the specific demands of multi-story structures. Moreover,
incorporating slump testing into quality control practices underscores its importance in
producing well-constructed and durable concrete structures, ultimately contributing to the safety
and longevity of construction projects.
19
REFERENCES
1. ASTM C143/C143M. (2010). Standard Test Method for Slump of Hydraulic-Cement
Concrete. ASTM International.
2. Jones, M. R., & McCarthy, A. (2005). Properties of concrete at fresh and hardened state.
Whittles Publishing.
3. Neville, A. M. (2011). Properties of Concrete. Pearson Education.
4. Smith, J. (2018). Concrete in Construction: An overview. XYZ Publishers.
5. Zhang, M. H. (2020). High-Rise Building Construction: Materials, Methods, and
Challenges. ABC Publishers.
6. Concrete slump testing: test methods, equipment, and testing techniques. (n.d.).
GlobalGilson.com.
https://www.globalgilson.com/blog/concrete-slump-guide#:~:text=A%20flat%2C%20level
%2C%20non%2D,clamping%20to%20a%20base%20plate
7. Virtual labs. (n.d.). https://ms-nitk.vlabs.ac.in/exp/slump-test/simulation.html
8. Concrete slump testing: test methods, equipment, and testing techniques. (n.d.-b).
GlobalGilson.com. https://www.globalgilson.com/blog/concrete-slump-guide
9. Dorji, T. (2024, January 18). Concrete Slump Test: Principal, Objectives, Procedure and
Factors — Civil Engineering Profile. Civil Engineering Profile.
https://civilengpro.com/concrete-slump-test/
10. Nkazi Sciences. (2023, October 3). Measuring Cylinder Plastic | Nkazi Sciences. Nkazi
Sciences | Unleashing the Scientist in You.
https://www.nkazisciences.co.za/product/measuring-cylinder/
11. Team, T. (2023, April 6). Concrete slump tests – measuring the workability of concrete.
Total Concrete.
https://www.totalconcrete.co.uk/news/concrete-slump-tests-measuring-the-workability-of-
20
concrete/#:~:text=A%20concrete%20slump%20test%20measures,it%20is%20poured%2
0on%20site.
12. SLUMP TEST APPARATUS - Microteknik. (2018, February 17). Microteknik.
http://www.microteknik.com/product/civil-engineering-concrete-testing-slump-test-appara
tus/#:~:text=The%20apparatus%20comprise%20of%20a,plate%20with%20a%20carryin
g%20handle.
13. Team, T. (2023b, April 6). What is meant by ‘Concrete slump’ & Why does it matter?
Total Concrete.
https://www.totalconcrete.co.uk/news/what-is-concrete-slump-and-why-does-it-matter/#:
~:text=What%20does%20'slump'%20mean%3F,when%20it%20all%20boils%20down.
21
