LABORATORY REPORT 1

CE 8: CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS TESTING

SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE AND

COURSE AGGREGATES

1Abstract
Sieve analvsis is a method used to evaluate the gradation or the particle size distribution of aggregates
material. In this experiment, we utilize various sieves and then let the aggregates pass through them (by shaking)
and thus collecting and weighing the retained particles. The data gathered will be used to determine the fineness
modulus (FM) of the sample and other parameters - effective size, coefficient of gradation, and uniformity
coefficient. It will also be used to plot the Grain Size Distribution Curve of both the samples that will be used to
classify the aggregates as well or poorly-graded.

2 Significance and Use

“This test method is used primarily to determine the grading of materials proposed for use as aggregates or
being used as aggregates. The results are used to determine compliance of the particle size distribution with
applicable specification requirements and to provide necessary data for control of the production of various
aggregate products and mixtures containing aggregates.
The data may also be useful in developing relationships concerning porosity and packing." - ASTM C136

3 Standard Reference
ASTM CI36 - 06: Standard Test Method for Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregates

Submitted by: Submitted to: Section:

Katalbas, Kristina Cassandra Engr. Darell John Bandino BSCE 3-1
20-1206
LABORATORY REPORT 1: SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE & COARSE AGGREGATES
FINE AGGREGATES

OBJECTIVES:

To determine the grading of materials proposed for use as

aggregates or being used as aggregates.
To provide necessary data for control of the production of
various aggregate products and mixtures containing
aggregates.
To learn about the compliance of the particle size
distribution with applicable specification requirements.

EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURES:

I: MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT

Sieves ( 9.50 mm, 4.75 mm, 2.36 mm, 0.85mm, 0.60 mm,
0.30 mm, 0.15 mm)
Fine Aggregates (Sand)
Gloves
Sieve Cover
Weighing scale
Flat Trowel
FINE AGGREGATES
Rectangular Stainless Trays
Lighter
Denatured Alcohol
Brass Pan
Brush

KATALBAS, KRISTINA CASSANDRA E. CE 8: CMT

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LABORATORY REPORT 1: SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE & COARSE AGGREGATES
COARSE AGGREGATES

OBJECTIVES:

To determine the grading of materials proposed for use as

aggregates or being used as aggregates.
To provide necessary data for control of the production of
various aggregate products and mixtures containing
aggregates.
To learn about the compliance of the particle size
distribution with applicable specification requirements.

EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURES:

I: MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT

Sieves (37.50 mm, 26.90 mm, 19.00 mm, 12.50 mm, 9.50
mm, 4.75 mm)
Coarse Aggregates (Gravel)
Gloves
Sieve Cover
Weighing scale
Flat Trowel
Rectangular Stainless Trays COARSE AGGREGATES
Lighter
Denatured Alcohol
Brass Pan
Brush

KATALBAS, KRISTINA CASSANDRA E. CE 8: CMT

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LABORATORY REPORT 1: SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE & COARSE AGGREGATES
FINE AGGREGATES

EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE:

II: METHODOLOGY
Sample must undergo quartering.
Using the weighing scale, measure the tray (in grams). Do
not remove the tray and press the tare button on the
electronic balance to reset the balance’s display to zero.
Put the fine aggregates inside the tray and record the
reading.
To dry the sample, pour denatured alcohol all over the fine
aggregates and use the lighter to ignite it.
Wait until the fire is gone and repeat the process until the
fine aggregate color turns into white. This is done to ensure
that the sample is completely dry.
Allow the sample to cool to room temperature before
measuring the weight of the dry sample in the electronic
balance. Make sure that tray is in tare weight before putting
the dry sample.
Arrange the sieves in decreasing order of the opening size
by keeping the sieve with 9.50 mm at the top and 0.75 mm
at the bottom.
Place the arranged sieves on a round pan then put the fine
aggregate sample on the top sieve. Cover the top of the lid
with a sieve cover.
Shake the sieve for at least one (1) minute.
Find the weight of the sample retained in each sieve using
the electronic balance. Use a brush to ensure that all
aggregates are removed from the sieves.
Weigh the remaining sample on the pan.
With all the necessary data, you can now proceed to
computation. Calculate the percentage of material retained
on each sieve, as well as the cumulative percentage
passing, according to the formulas provided in ASTM C136.

KATALBAS, KRISTINA CASSANDRA E. CE 8: CMT

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LABORATORY REPORT 1: SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE & COARSE AGGREGATES
COARSE AGGREGATES

EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE:

II: METHODOLOGY
Sample must undergo quartering.
Using the weighing scale, measure the tray (in grams). Do
not remove the tray and press the tare button on the
electronic balance to reset the balance’s display to zero.
Put the coarse aggregates inside the tray and record the
reading.
To dry the sample, pour denatured alcohol all over the
coarse aggregates and use the lighter to ignite it.
Wait until the fire is gone and repeat the process two more
times to ensure that the sample is completely dry.
Allow the sample to cool to room temperature before
measuring the weight of the dry sample in the electronic
balance. Make sure that tray is in tare weight before putting
the dry sample.
Arrange the sieves in decreasing order of the opening size
by keeping the sieve with 37.50 mm at the top and 4.75 mm
at the bottom.
Place the arranged sieves on a round pan then put the dry
coarse aggregate sample on the top sieve. Cover the top of
the lid with a sieve cover.
Shake the sieve for at least one (1) minute.
Find the weight of the sample retained in each sieve using
the electronic balance. Use a brush to ensure that all
aggregates are removed from the sieves.
Weigh the remaining sample on the pan.
With all the necessary data, you can now proceed to
computation. Calculate the percentage of material retained
on each sieve, as well as the cumulative percentage
passing, according to the formulas provided in ASTM C136.

KATALBAS, KRISTINA CASSANDRA E. CE 8: CMT

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LABORATORY REPORT 1: SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE & COARSE AGGREGATES
FINE AGGREGATES

EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE:

III: DATA ANALYSIS

Aggregates Retained in Sieve:
= (Weigh of Sieve with Aggregates) - (Weigh of Sieve)

Sieve no. size: 4.75 mm

> 492.35 - 492.35 = 0
Sieve no. size: 2.36 mm
> 504.95 - 482.42 = 22.53 g
Sieve no. size: 0.85 mm
> 718.25 - 628.03 = 90.22 g
Sieve no. size: 0.60 mm
> 420.89 - 372.69 = 48.2 g
Sieve no. size: 0.30 mm
> 484.51 - 348.93 = 135.58 g
Sieve no. size: 0.15 mm
> 437.25 - 322.03 = 115.22 g
Pan
> 384.67 - 359.99 = 24.68 g

Percentage Retained (per sieve):

= ((Aggregates Retained in Sieve) / Weigh of Sample ) x 100 %
Weigh of Sample= 436.43 g

Sieve no. size: 4.75 mm

> (0/436.43) x 100 = 0
Sieve no. size: 2.36 mm
> (22.53/436.43) x 100 = 5.162%
Sieve no. size: 0.85 mm
> (90.22/436.43)x 100 = 20.672%
Sieve no. size: 0.60 mm
> (48.20/436.43)x 100 =11.044%
Sieve no. size: 0.30 mm
> (135.58/436.43)x 100 = 31.066%
Sieve no. size: 0.15 mm
> (115.22/436.43)x 100 = 26.401%
Pan
> (24.68/436.43)x 100 = 5.655%

KATALBAS, KRISTINA CASSANDRA E. CE 8: CMT

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LABORATORY REPORT 1: SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE & COARSE AGGREGATES
FINE AGGREGATES

EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE:

III: DATA ANALYSIS

Percentage Fineness:
For the first sieve:
= 100% – (Percentage Retained of the first sieve)
For the succeeding sieves:
= (Preceding Percentage Fineness) – (Percentage Retained of the
sieve)

100 % - 0 = 100 %
100 % - 5.162 % = 94.838 %
94.838 % - 20.672% = 74.166 %
74.166 % - 11.044 % = 63.122 %
63.122 % - 31.066 % = 32.056 %
32.056 % - 26.401 % = 5.655 %
5.655 % - 5.655 % = 0

Cumulative Percent Retained (per sieve):

= 100% - (Percentage Fineness of the Sieve)

100 % - 100 % = 0
100 % - 94.838 % = 5.162 %
100 % - 74.166% = 25.834 %
100 % - 63.122 % = 36.878 %
100 % - 32.056 % = 67.944 %
100 % - 5.655 % = 94.345 %
TOTAL = 230.163 %

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LABORATORY REPORT 1: SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE & COARSE AGGREGATES
FINE AGGREGATES

EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE:

III: DATA ANALYSIS

Fineness Modulus:
FM = ∑ (Cumulative Percent Retained per Sieve) / 100

FM = ( 0 + 5.162 + 25.834 + 36.878 + 67.944 + 94.345 ) / 100

FM = 2.30163
Percentage Error:
% Error = ∑ (Aggregate Retained in Sieve) - (Total Sample Weight)
X 100 %
(Total Sample Weight

Total Sample Weight = 436.93 g

% Error = ( 0 + 22.53 + 90.22 + 48.2 + 135.58 + 115.22 + 24.68 ) - 436.93

/436.93 x 100%

% Error = 0.1144348 %

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LABORATORY REPORT 1: SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE & COARSE AGGREGATES
FINE AGGREGATES

DATA & RESULTS

Table 1. Sieve Analysis for Fine Aggregates

NOMINAL AGGREGATES
SIEVE SIEVE + FINE PERCENTAGE PERCENTAGE
DIAMETER SIEVE RETAINED IN
NUMBER AGGREGATES RETAINED FINESSE
(MM) SIEVE

4 4.75 492.35 492.35 0.00 0.000 100.000

8 2.36 482.42 504.95 22.53 5.162 94.838

20 0.85 628.03 718.25 90.22 20.672 74.166

30 0.60 372.69 420.89 48.20 11.044 63.122

50 0.30 348.93 484.51 135.58 31.066 32.056

100 0.15 322.03 437.25 115.22 26.401 5.655

PAN - 359.99 384.67 24.68 5.655 0

-
TOTAL 3006.44 3442.87 436.43 100

Initial mass of sample = 436.43 g

Total sample weight = 436.93 g

(mass data is in gram)

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LABORATORY REPORT 1: SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE & COARSE AGGREGATES
FINE AGGREGATES

DATA & RESULTS

Table 2. Data used for Plotting Graph and Computing for the Fineness Modulus

CUMULATIVE PERCENT
SIEVE NUMBER PERCENTAGE FINESSE LOWER BOUNDARY UPPER BOUNDARY
RETAINED

4 100.000 0.000 95 100

8 94.838 5.162 80 100

20 74.166 25.834 50 85

30 63.122 36.878 25 60

50 32.056 67.944 10 30

100 5.655 94.345 2 10

TOTAL 230.163

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LABORATORY REPORT 1: SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE & COARSE AGGREGATES
FINE AGGREGATES

DATA & RESULTS

Figure 1. Grain Size Distribution Curve (Fine Aggregates)

Table 3. Computed Diameter for 10%, 30%, 60% Percentage Passed

PERCENTAGE PASSED DIAMETER (MM) DENOTATION

10 8.464172216 D10

30 5.659563391 D30
-

60 3.09442445 D60

Table 4. Computed Diameter for 10%, 30%, 60% Percentage Passed

EFFECTIVE SIZE 8.464172216

COEFFICIENT OF GRADATION 1.222929613

UNIFORMITY COEFFICIENT 0.3655909132

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LABORATORY REPORT 1: SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE & COARSE AGGREGATES
COARSE AGGREGATES

EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE:

III: DATA ANALYSIS

Aggregates Retained in Sieve:
= (Weigh of Sieve with Aggregates) - (Weigh of Sieve)

Sieve no. size: 37.50 mm

> 554.87- 554.87 = 0
Sieve no. size: 26.50 mm
> 802.73 - 802.73 = 0
Sieve no. size: 19.00 mm
> 1010.25 - 535.24 = 475.01 g
Sieve no. size: 12.50 mm
> 1785.01 - 542.96 = 1242.05 g
Sieve no. size: 9.50 mm
> 808.92 - 538.91 = 270.01 g
Sieve no. size: 4.75 mm
> 814.87 - 768.79 = 46.08 g
Pan
> 368.52 - 365.87 = 2.65 g

Percentage Retained (per sieve):

= ((Aggregates Retained in Sieve) / Weigh of Sample ) x 100 %
Weigh of Sample= 2035.8 g

Sieve no. size: 37.50 mm

> (0/2035.8) x 100 = 0
Sieve no. size: 26.50 mm
> (0/2035.8) x 100 = 0
Sieve no. size: 19.00 mm
> (475.01/2035.8) x 100 = 23.333%
Sieve no. size: 12.50 mm
> (1242.05/2035.8) x 100 = 61.010%
Sieve no. size: 9.50 mm
> (270.01/2035.8) x 100 = 13.263%
Sieve no. size: 4.75 mm
> (46.08/2035.8) x 100 = 2.263%
Pan
> (2.65/2035.8) x 100 = 0.130%

KATALBAS, KRISTINA CASSANDRA E. CE 8: CMT

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LABORATORY REPORT 1: SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE & COARSE AGGREGATES
COARSE AGGREGATES

EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE:

III: DATA ANALYSIS

Percentage Fineness:
For the first sieve:
= 100% – (Percentage Retained of the first sieve)
For the succeeding sieves:
= (Preceding Percentage Fineness) – (Percentage Retained of the sieve)

100 % - 0 = 100 %
100 % - 0 = 100 %
100 % - 23.333% = 76.667 %
76.667 % - 61.010 % = 15.657 %
15.657 % - 13.263 % = 2.394 %
2.394 % - 2.263 % = 0.131 %
0.131 % - 0.130 % = 0.001 %

Cumulative Percent Retained (per sieve):

= 100% - (Percentage Fineness of the Sieve)

100 % - 100 % = 0 %
100 % - 100 % = 0 %
100 % - 76.667% = 23.333 %
100 % - 15.657 % = 84.343 %
100 % - 2.394 % = 97.606 %
100 % - 0.131 % = 99.869 %
TOTAL = 305.151 %

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LABORATORY REPORT 1: SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE & COARSE AGGREGATES
COARSE AGGREGATES

EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE:

III: DATA ANALYSIS

Fineness Modulus:
FM = ∑ (Cumulative Percent Retained per Sieve) / 100

FM = ( 0 + 0 + 23.333 + 84.343 + 97.606 + 99.869 ) / 100

FM = 3.05151

Percentage Error:
% Error = ∑ (Aggregate Retained in Sieve) - (Total Sample Weight)
(Total Sample Weight) X 100 %

Total Sample Weight = 2039.71 g

% Error =
(0 + 0 + 475.01 + 1242.05 + 270.01 + 46.08 + 2.65) - 2039.71 / 2039.71
x 100 %
% Error = 0.1916939 %

KATALBAS, KRISTINA CASSANDRA E. CE 8: CMT

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LABORATORY REPORT 1: SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE & COARSE AGGREGATES
COARSE AGGREGATES

DATA & RESULTS

Table 5. Sieve Analysis for Course Aggregates

AGGREGATES
SIEVE NOMINAL SIEVE + FINE PERCENTAGE PERCENTAGE
SIEVE RETAINED IN
NUMBER DIAMETER AGGREGATES RETAINED FINESSE
SIEVE

1 1/2 37.50 554.87 554.87 0.00 0.000 100.000

1 26.50 802.73 802.73 0.00 0.000 100.000

3/4 19.00 535.24 1010.25 475.01 23.333 76.667

1/2 12.50 542.96 1785.01 1242.05 61.010 15.657

3/8 9.50 538.91 808.92 270.01 13.263 2.394

4 4.75 768.79 814.87 46.08 2.263 0.131

PAN - 365.87 368.52 2.65 0.130 0.001

-
TOTAL 4109.37 6145.17 2035.8 99.999

Initial mass of sample = 2035.8 g

Total sample weight = 2039.71 g

(mass data is in gram)

KATALBAS, KRISTINA CASSANDRA E. CE 8: CMT

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LABORATORY REPORT 1: SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE & COARSE AGGREGATES
COARSE AGGREGATES

DATA & RESULTS

Table 6. Data used for Plotting Graph and Computing for the Fineness Modulus

SIEVE CUMULATIVE PERCENT

PERCENTAGE FINESSE LOWER BOUNDARY UPPER BOUNDARY
NUMBER RETAINED

1 1/2 100.000 0.000 100 100

1 100.000 0.000 90 100

3/4 76.667 23.333 90 100

1/2 15.657 84.343 90 100

3/8 2.394 97.606 20 55

4 0.131 99.869 0 10

TOTAL 305.151

Initial mass of sample = 2035.8 g

Total sample weight = 2039.71 g

(mass data is in gram)

KATALBAS, KRISTINA CASSANDRA E. CE 8: CMT

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LABORATORY REPORT 1: SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE & COARSE AGGREGATES
COARSE AGGREGATES

DATA & RESULTS

Table 7. Computed Diameter for 10%, 30%, 60% Percentage Passed

PERCENTAGE PASSED DIAMETER (MM) DENOTATION

10 7.692648 D10

30 - 10.759697 D30

60 17.798619 D60

Table 4. Computed Diameter for 10%, 30%, 60% Percentage Passed

EFFECTIVE SIZE 7.692648

COEFFICIENT OF GRADATION 0.845547

UNIFORMITY COEFFICIENT 2.3137181

KATALBAS, KRISTINA CASSANDRA E. CE 8: CMT

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LABORATORY REPORT 1: SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE & COARSE AGGREGATES

DISCUSSION:

Characterizing the size distribution of aggregates is an important part of

civil engineering. It affects how construction materials perform. This
process, often done through sieve analysis, helps classify aggregate samples
and ensures quality control in construction.

Effects on Concrete Performance

The size distribution of particles influences several key
properties:Workability: Well-graded aggregates make it easier to mix
and place concrete.
Strength: A suitable gradation can lead to stronger concrete by
minimizing voids.
Durability: Properly graded aggregates help concrete last longer by
improving resistance to environmental factors.
Sieve Analysis Method
1. Sieve analysis involves using a series of sieves with different mesh sizes
to sort aggregate particles by size. The steps usually include:Sample
Preparation: Prepare a known amount of aggregate for testing.
2. Sieving Process: Place the sample in a stack of sieves, from largest to
smallest, often using mechanical shakers to help.
3. Data Collection: Measure and record the mass of material left on each
sieve to create a grain size distribution curve.
This curve shows whether the aggregate is well-graded or poorly graded,
which affects its suitability for specific construction uses.Key Takeaways
Particle Size Distribution: Knowing this is crucial for selecting the right
aggregates, which impacts concrete stability and performance.
Quality Control: Regular sieve analysis helps ensure materials meet
design specifications and maintain consistent quality.
Resource Optimization: Understanding gradation allows engineers to
adjust aggregate proportions effectively, improving construction
efficiency.

In summary, characterizing aggregate size distribution through sieve

analysis is essential in civil engineering. It directly impacts the quality and
durability of construction materials, helping ensure that concrete structures
are strong and long-lasting.

KATALBAS, KRISTINA CASSANDRA E. CE 8: CMT

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LABORATORY REPORT 1: SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE & COARSE AGGREGATES

SUMMARY & CONCLUSION:

In conclusion, ASTM C126 offers a standardized and reliable method to

assess the splitting tensile strength of concrete, aiding in quality control
and ensuring the concrete's ability to withstand tensile stresses. This
experiment underscores the importance of meticulous preparation, accurate
testing, and adherence to standardized procedures to obtain reliable tensile
strength results for concrete.

KATALBAS, KRISTINA CASSANDRA E. CE 8: CMT

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LABORATORY REPORT 1: SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE & COARSE AGGREGATES

LABORATORY SUGGESTION:

All students must be required to review the relevant safety instructions. It

should be mandatory for them to read the institution's laboratory safety
policies. A declaration should be created, indicating that both groups have
read, understood, and agreed to follow these policies and procedures, with
signatures from all parties involved.

Unannounced inspections of the laboratory should be conducted to identify

and address any hazardous conditions or improper practices.Additionally,
increasing the availability of equipment and related materials during
laboratory sessions will help maximize the time spent on experiments.

To prevent unauthorized use of materials, each group's and section's

storage areas should be clearly defined and labeled, ensuring that the
contents are identifiable as belonging to specific groups.

Lastly, regular checks of the storage areas should be performed to ensure

that materials are organized and not left in disarray. This version maintains
your original ideas while enhancing clarity and coherence.

KATALBAS, KRISTINA CASSANDRA E. CE 8: CMT

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LABORATORY REPORT 1: SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE & COARSE AGGREGATES

DOCUMENTATION:

KATALBAS, KRISTINA CASSANDRA E. CE 8: CMT

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LABORATORY REPORT 2

CE 8: CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS TESTING

RELATIVE DENSITY (SPECIFIC

GRAVITY) AND ABSORPTION OF
COARSE AGGREGATE

1Abstract
Specific Gravity is important for several reasons. Some deleterious particles are lighter than the good aggregates.
Tracking specific gravity can sometimes indicate a change of material or possible contamination. Differences in
specific gravity may be used during production to separate the deleterious particles from the good using a heavy
media liquid.The specific gravity of the aggregate is used in calculating the percentage of voids and the solid
volume of aggregates in computations of yield. The absorption is important in determining the net water-cement
ratio in the concrete mix. Knowing the specific gravity of aggregates is also critical to the construction of water
filtration systems, slope stabilization projects, railway bedding and many other applications.

2 Significance and Use

“This test method is used primarily to determine the grading of materials proposed for use as aggregates or being
used as aggregates. The results are used to determine compliance of the particle size distribution with applicable
specification requirements and to provide necessary data for control of the production of various aggregate
products and mixtures containing aggregates.
The data may also be useful in developing relationships concerning porosity and packing." - ASTM C136

3 Standard Reference
ASTM CI36 - 06: Standard Test Method for Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregates

Submitted by: Submitted to: Section:

Katalbas, Kristina Cassandra Engr. Darell John Bandino BSCE 3-1
20-1206
LABORATORY REPORT 2: RELATIVE DENSITY (SPECIFIC GRAVITY) AND
ABSORPTION OF COARSE AGGREGATE

OBJECTIVES:

To determine the grading of materials proposed for use as

aggregates or being used as aggregates.
To provide necessary data for control of the production of
various aggregate products and mixtures containing
aggregates.
To learn about the compliance of the particle size
distribution with applicable specification requirements.

EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURES:

I: MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT

Sieves ( 9.50 mm, 4.75 mm, 2.36 mm, 0.85mm, 0.60 mm,
0.30 mm, 0.15 mm)
Fine Aggregates (Sand)
Gloves
Sieve Cover
Weighing scale
Flat Trowel
Rectangular Stainless Trays
Lighter
Denatured Alcohol
Brass Pan
Brush

KATALBAS, KRISTINA CASSANDRA E. CE 8: CMT

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LABORATORY REPORT 2: RELATIVE DENSITY (SPECIFIC GRAVITY) AND
ABSORPTION OF COARSE AGGREGATE

METHODOLOGY:

Thoroughly mix the sample and reduce to the quantity

Reject all material passing the sieve (4) 4.75mm by dry
sieving and thoroughly wash to remove dust or other
coatings
After thoroughly washing, dry the sample by setting it on
fire using denatured alcohol and lighter until it comes to a
constant mass
Immerse sample in water at room temperature for 15-19
hours
Dry the sample using the flat towel or cloth until all the
visibles are removed
Determine the mass of the sample in SSD condition. Record
this and all subsequent masses to the nearest 1.0 g or 0.1%
of the sample mass, whichever is greater
Immediately place the sample in the wire mesh basket and
immerse in water, shake the basket to remove any
entrapped air, determine the mass in water
Dry the sample by setting it on fire to a constant mass, cool
in air at room temperature for 1-3 hours or until
comfortable to handle and lastly record the mass
Calculate the specific gravity (SSD) and absorption

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LABORATORY REPORT 2: RELATIVE DENSITY (SPECIFIC GRAVITY) AND
ABSORPTION OF COARSE AGGREGATE

DATA ANALYSIS:

In this ASTM C127 test, we collected the following data

samples: The mass of the oven-dry aggregate in air was
2440.18 g, while the mass of the saturated surface dry
aggregate in air was 2466.9 g. The mass of the aggregate when
submerged in water was 2199.0 g. The calculated specific
gravity is 9.2083, indicating that it is denser than water.
Additionally, the absorption rate was determined to be 1.095%,
suggesting that there may be an increased likelihood of
shrinkage during the drying process.

DATA RESULTS:

TRIAL MASS

1 2441.28 Oven-Dry Mass of Aggregate (A):

2440.18 g
Saturated Surface Dry Mass (SSD)
2 2440.18 (B): 2466.9 g
Mass of Aggregate in Water (C):
2199.0 g
3 2440.18

SPECIFIC GRAVITY

SPECIFIC GRAVITY = B/(B-C)

SG = 2466.9/(2466.9-2199.0)
SG = 9.2083

ABSORPTION

ABSORPTION = (B-A)/A x 100%

ABSORPTION = (2466.9-2440.18)/2440.18 x 100%
ABSORPTION = 1.095 %

KATALBAS, KRISTINA CASSANDRA E. CE 8: CMT

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LABORATORY REPORT 2: RELATIVE DENSITY (SPECIFIC GRAVITY) AND
ABSORPTION OF COARSE AGGREGATE

DISCUSSION:

Coarse aggregates constitute a major portion of the volume of

concrete and directly influence its properties, making an
understanding of their specific gravity and absorption crucial.
Specific gravity is a measure of the density of the material
compared to the density of water. Bulk specific gravity SSD is
used if the aggregate is wet. Absorption values are used to
calculate the change in the weight of aggregate due to water
absorbed in the pore spaces within the constituent particles,
compared with the dry condition.

According to AASHTO, If the aggregate is not oven-dried before

soaking, specific gravity values may be significantly higher. This
is because in the normal procedure the water may not be able
to penetrate the pores to the center of the aggregate particle
during the soaking time. If the aggregate is not oven-dry to
start, the existing water in the aggregate pore structure may be
able to penetrate further into the pores. By adhering to the
material testing with properly conducting the test thoroughly,
accurate determination of specific gravity and absorption helps
in maintaining a high level of quality control and assurance in
concrete production.

SUMMARY & CONCLUSION:

In conclusion, ASTM C127 is a key standard for evaluating

specific gravity and absorption of coarse aggregates, directly
influencing concrete mix design, quality control, and the long-
term performance of concrete structures. By conducting this
test, engineers and industry professionals can make informed
decisions regarding aggregate selection and optimize concrete
formulations for enhanced durability and performance.

KATALBAS, KRISTINA CASSANDRA E. CE 8: CMT

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LABORATORY REPORT 2: RELATIVE DENSITY (SPECIFIC GRAVITY) AND
ABSORPTION OF COARSE AGGREGATE

LABORATORY SUGGESTION:

All students should be required to study the relevant safety

instructions. Make it mandatory for students to read the
institution's lab safety policies. Have a declaration
indicating both groups have read, understood, and agreed
to abide by the policies and procedures signed by them
both.
Conduct routine, spontaneous laboratory inspections to
observe and address dangerous situations and improper
procedures.
Having more equipment and other related materials in
laboratory activities to maximize the time of performing
laboratory activities.
To prevent other students from using the materials,
properly divide each group's and section's storage space.
Additionally, label the section and group to confirm that the
contents belong to a certain group.
Check the storage space to make sure that the materials
were organized and not just lying around.

KATALBAS, KRISTINA CASSANDRA E. CE 8: CMT

5
LABORATORY REPORT 2: RELATIVE DENSITY (SPECIFIC GRAVITY) AND
ABSORPTION OF COARSE AGGREGATE

DOCUMENTATION:

KATALBAS, KRISTINA CASSANDRA E. CE 8: CMT

6