Experiment Name: Specific Gravity and Absorption

Capacity of Coarse Aggregate.

Abstract: the determination of specific gravity (SG) and absorption of course aggregate is
essential for understanding their quality, strength, and suitability for construction purposes. This
study examines the physical properties of coarse aggregate, focusing on bulk density, apparent
density, and specific gravity. These properties influence the mix design of concrete, durability, and
overall performance of structural design. The test was conducted using standard methods, including
weighing, aggregate in air, immerged and saturated surface dry(ssd) condition, ensuring accurate
measurements. The result provides insight into the aggregate compactness, porosity, and moisture
absorption select aggregate mix brick khoa.

Introduction: Relative density (specific gravity) is the characteristic used for calculation of the
volume occupied by the aggregate in various mixtures containing aggregate. Relative density
(specific gravity) is also used in the computation.
of voids in aggregate in Test Method C 29/C 29M. Relative density (specific gravity) (SSD) is used
if the aggregate is wet, that is, if its absorption has been satisfied. Conversely, the relative density
(specific gravity) (OD) is used for computations when the aggregate is dry or assumed to be dry.
Apparent density and apparent relative density (apparent specific gravity) pertain to the solid
material making up the
constituent particles not including the pore space within the particles which is accessible to water.
Absorption values are used to calculate the change in the mass of an aggregate due to water
absorbed in the pore spaces within the constituent particles, compared to the dry condition, when it
is deemed that the aggregate has been in contact with water long enough to satisfy most of the
absorption potential. The laboratory standard for absorption is that obtained after submerging dry
aggregate for a prescribed period of time. Aggregates mined from below the water table commonly
have a moisture content greater than the absorption determined by this test method, if used without
opportunity to dry prior to use. Conversely, some aggregates which have not been continuously
maintained in a moist condition until used are likely to contain an amount of absorbed moisture less
than the 24h soaked condition. For an aggregate that has been in contact with water and that has
free moisture on the particle surfaces, the percentage of free moisture is determined by deducting
the absorption from the total moisture.
content determined by Test Method C 566.
The general procedures described in this test method are suitable for determining the absorption of
aggregates that have had conditioning other than the 24-h soak, such as boiling water or vacuum
saturation. The values obtained for absorption by other test methods will be different than the
values obtained by the prescribed soaking, as will the relative density (specific gravity) (SSD).
The pores in lightweight aggregates are not necessarily filled with water after immersion for 24 h.
In fact, the absorption potential for many such aggregates is not satisfy after several days of
immersion in water. Therefore, this test is not intended for use with lightweight aggregate.

Reference Documents: ASTM Standards C 29/C 29M Test method for bulk density (unit
weight) and voids in aggregate.
Apparatus:
1. Balance
2. Sample container
3. Water tank
4. Oven
5. sieves

Sample:
1. Coarse aggregate (mix brick khoa)
2. Potable water

Procedure:

1. Dry Weight: The sample was dried in the oven to a constant mass at a temperature of
110 ± 5℃. It was then cooled in air at room temperature for 30 minutes. Once comfortable
to handle, the aggregate was weighed using a balance, and the dry weight (Wod) was
recorded.
2. Immersing the Aggregate: After weighing, the aggregate was immersed in potable water
at room temperature for a period of 24±4 hours.
3. Removing excess Water: After the immersion period, the excess water was removed from
the aggregate, and each particle was carefully wiped individually to remove excess moisture
from the surface.
4. SSD Weight: The mass of the aggregate sample in the saturated surface dry (SSD)
condition was determined, and this weight (Wssd) was recorded.
5. Immersed Weight: Immediately after determining the SSD weight, the aggregate was
placed in a sample container and its apparent mass in water was determined at 23±2°C. The
immersed weight (Wim ) was recorded.

Fig: Taking immersed weight in water Fig: SSD Condition of Brick Khoa
Collected Data:
Wod=300g
Wssd=336g
Wim=170g

Calculations:
Relative density (specific gravity) for oven dry weight sample:
300
𝑆𝐺 = 336−170 g

=1.81 g
Relative density (specific gravity) for SSD sample:
336
SGssd= 336−170 g

=2.02 g
Absorption of it the aggregate:
336−300
Absorption Capacity (%) = ( ) × 100%
300

=12%

Conclusion:
This experiments we find out Specifics gravity of OD conditions, Specific gravity of SSD condition
and Absorption capacity (%). The absorption capacity in this experiment of the coarse aggregate is
12%. This is considered very high and is generally unsuitable for most construction applications. It
indicates high porosity. high porosity can lead to increased water demand, reduce strength, and
potential durability issues.

Precautions:

1. The brick khoa (coarse aggregate) was properly cleaned before beginning the test to ensure
accurate results.
2. Care was taken to weigh the aggregate accurately in the oven-dry (OD) condition, saturated
surface dry (SSD) condition, and immersed condition.
3. Sufficient time was allowed for the aggregate to achieve full saturation during the soaking
process.
4. Potable water was used to ensure the aggregate reached the saturated condition as per
standard guidelines.
5. The water and room temperature were maintained consistently throughout the test.
6. A soft, damp cloth was used to gently wipe the surface of the aggregate, ensuring no
damage to the particles while achieving the SSD condition.