Transportation Engineering Lab

has been set up to fulfill the needs

of analyzing the movements and
testing the pavements moments.

LAB
MANUAL
BUILDING MATERIALS
LAB(ECE-352)

Department of Civil Engineering

 BABASAHEB BHIMRAO AMBEDKAR UNIVERSITY, LUCKNOW

Vision of the Institute

By building highly skilled technical workforce and technology resources that are focused on the economic and
social growth of the country as a whole and the region in particular while bearing in mind the difficulties facing
the world, to establish a distinctive character as a pioneer technical Institute.

Mission of the Institute

M1: To establish a solid, transformative technological learning environment that fosters innovation, morality,
research, and excellence in accordance with global standards.

M2: To train technically proficient and highly gifted engineers, future entrepreneurs and innovators, and
graduates with knowledge of the demands and issues facing the sector, society, the state, and the country.

M3: To instill in aspiring engineers the highest levels of assurance, professionalism, academic excellence, and
engineering ethics.
 VISION OF THE DEPARTMENT

To cultivate civil engineers with a desire for professional achievement, who are prepared to take on major
challenges and serve society with the highest ethical standards.

MISSION STATEMENT OF THE DEPARTMENT

• To supply the infrastructure and facilities necessary for academic achievement in the discipline of civil
engineering.
• To instill in the student a love for professionalism, ethics, safety, and sustainability before encouraging
them to actively participate in society.
• To foster innovation and inspire creative solutions to difficult challenges in real life for students
studying civil engineering.
• To provide students a worldwide perspective on lifelong learning.

PROGRAM EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES

PEO1: To prepare students for post-secondary study and research in the subject of civil
engineering in particular and associated engineering fields in general.

PEO2: To prepare students to identify and analyse Civil engineering problems in an

iterative approach that involves defining, quantifying, testing and review of the
identified problem.

PEO3: To prepare students to plan, organize, schedule, execute and communicate

effectively as an individual, a team member or a leader in multidisciplinary
environment.

PEO4: To provide the students, an academic environment that makes them aware of
excellence in field of Civil Engineering and enables them to understand significance of
lifelong learning in global perspective.
 INDEX

I. Cement

1. Normal consistency. 2. Initial & final setting time. 3. Compressive strength. 4. Fineness by air permeability
and Le-chatalier’s apparatus. 5. Soundness. 6. Tensile strength

II. Coarse Aggregate

1. Crushing value. 2. Impact value. 3. Water absorption. 4. Sieve analysis. 5. Specific gravity & bulk density. 6.
Grading.

III. Fine Aggregate (sand)

1. Sieve analysis. 2. Silt content. 3. Bulking.

IV. Cement Concrete

1. Workability 2. Compressive strength 3. Tensile strength

V. Reinforcing Steel

1.Tensile and yield strength 2. Percentage elongation

VI. Non-Destructive Testing on concrete

VII. Bricks

1. Water absorption. 2. Dimension Tolerance. 3. Compressive strength. 4. Efflorescence

I.Cement
Experiment No.1

Aim: To determine the Normal Consistency Test of Cement.

Apparatus :

Vicat apparatus conforming to IS: 5513 – 1976, Balance, whose permissible variation at a load of 1000g should
be +1.0g, Gauging trowel conforming to IS: 10086 – 1982.

Theory:

The basic aim is to find out the water content required to produce a cement paste of standard consistency as
specified by the IS: 4031 (Part 4) – 1988. The principle is that standard consistency of cement is that
consistency at which the Vicat plunger penetrates to a point 5-7mm from the bottom of Vicat mould.

Procedure to determine consistency of cement

i) Weigh approximately 400g of cement and mix it with a weighed quantity of water. The time of gauging
should be between 3 to 5 minutes.

ii) Fill the Vicat mould with paste and level it with a trowel.

iii) Lower the plunger gently till it touches the cement surface.

iv) Release the plunger allowing it to sink into the paste.

v) Note the reading on the gauge.

vi)Repeat the above procedure taking fresh samples of cement and different quantities of water until the
reading on the gauge is 5 to 7mm.

Observation Table:

S.NO. % of water Initial reading Final reading Ht. of

pentration(mm)
1
2
3

Results :

The normal consistency of the given sample of cement is…….%

Precautions:

1) The paste must be prepared in a standard manner as describe above and filled into the vicats mould
within 3-5 minute after adding water.
2) The temperature of water should be about 27 degree. There should be no vibration on working table.
3) It must be clean everytime it is used.
4) In each trial , fresh cement weighing 400gm should be taken.
5) The test must be completed within 2 minute after mixing water.
 Experiment No.2

Aim :To determine the Initial Setting & Final Setting Time of cement

Apparatus:

Vicat’s apparatus with standard needle and conical ring, measuring cylinder(500ml capacity), stop watch and
balance.

Theory:

We need to calculate the initial and final setting time as per IS: 4031 (Part 5) – 1988. To do so we need Vicat
apparatus conforming to IS: 5513 – 1976, Balance, whose permissible variation at a load of 1000g should be
+1.0g, Gauging trowel conforming to IS: 10086 – 1982.

Procedure to determine initial and final setting time of cement

i) Prepare a cement paste by gauging the cement with 0.85 times the water required to give a paste of
standard consistency.

ii) Start a stop-watch, the moment water is added to the cement.

iii) Fill the Vicat mould completely with the cement paste gauged as above, the mould resting on a non-porous
plate and smooth off the surface of the paste making it level with the top of the mould. The cement block thus
prepared in the mould is the test block.

INITIAL SETTING TIME

Place the test block under the rod bearing the needle. Lower the needle gently in order to make contact with
the surface of the cement paste and release quickly, allowing it to penetrate the test block. Repeat the
procedure till the needle fails to pierce the test block to a point 5.0 ± 0.5mm measured from the bottom of the
mould. The time period elapsing between the time, water is added to the cement and the time, the needle fails
to pierce the test block by 5.0 ± 0.5mm measured from the bottom of the mould, is the initial setting time.

A) FINAL SETTING TIME

Replace the above needle by the one with an annular attachment. The cement should be considered as finally
set when, upon applying the needle gently to the surface of the test block, the needle makes an impression
therein, while the attachment fails to do so. The period elapsing between the time, water is added to the
cement and the time, the needle makes an impression on the surface of the test block, while the attachment
fails to do so, is the final setting time.

Observation

s.no Time (in minutes) Penetration(mm)

Result:

Time taken for the initial set is………..min.

Wt. of cement =…..gm

Wt. of water = 0.85 P * Wt of cement in

Time taken for the final set is………….hrs.

Precautions:

1) The paste must be prepared in a standard manner. As describe above and filled in vicats mould within
3-5 minutes after adding water.
2) The temperature of water or room temperature is about 27 degree.
3) It must be clean every time it is used.
4) In each trial fresh cement ,weight 300gms should be taken
 Experiment No.3

AIM:To determine the compressive strength of standard cement mortar cubes compacted by
means of standard vibration machine.
APPARATUS:
Vibration machine and cube moulds of size 7.06 cms (Conforming to IS: 4031-
1988)
STANDARD SAND: The standard sand to be used in the test shall conform to IS: 650-1991 or
sand passing 100 percent through 2 mm sieve and retained 100 percent on 90 micron IS sieve.
2mm to 1mm 33.33 percent
1mm to 500 microns 33.33 percent
500mm to 90 microns 33.33 percent.
INTRODUCTION: The compressive strength of cement mortars is determined in order to
verify whether the cement conforms to IS specifications and whether it will be able to develop
the required compressive strength of concrete. The average compressive strength of at least three
mortar cubes (area of the face 50 cm2 ) composed of one part of cement and three parts of
standard stand should satisfy IS code specifications.
PROCEDURE:
Mix proportions and mixing:
1. Clean appliances shall be used for mixing and the temperature of the water and that of the
test room at the time when the above operations are being performed shall be 27 + 2oC.
2. Place in a container a mixture of cement and standard sand in the proportion of 1:3 by
weight mix it dry, with a trowel for one minute and then with water until the mixture is of
uniform color.
3. The quantity of water to be used shall be as specified below.
4. In any element, it should not take more than 4 minutes to obtain uniform colored mix.
5. If it exceeds 4 minutes the mixture shall be rejected and the operation repeated with a
fresh quantity of cement, sand and water.
6. The material for each cube shall be mixed separately and the quantity of cement standard
sand and water shall be as follows:
Cement 200 gms
Standard sand 600 grms
Water (P/4 + 3.0) percent of combined weight of cement and
sand, where p is the percentage of water required to produce a paste of standard
consistency.
MOULDING SPECIMENS:
1. In assembling the moulds ready for use, cover the joints between the halves of the mould
with a thin film of petroleum jelly and apply a similar coating of petroleum jelly between
the contact surfaces of the bottom of the mould and its base plate in order to ensure that
no water escapes during vibration.
2. Treat the interior faces of the mould with a thin coating of mould oil.
3. Place the assembled mould on the table of the vibration machine and firmly hold it is
position by means of suitable clamps.
4. Securely attach a hopper of suitable size and shape at the top of the mould to facilitate
filling and this hopper shall not be removed until completion of the vibration period.
5. Immediately after mixing the mortar, place the mortar in the cube mould and rod with a
rod.
6. The mortar shall be rodded 20 times in about 8 seconds to ensure elimination of entrained
air and honey combing.
7. Place the remaining quantity of mortar in the hopper of the cube mould and rod again as
specified for the first layer and then compact the mortar by vibrations.
8. The period of vibration shall be two minutes at the specified speed of 12,000 + 400
vibrations per minute.
9. At the end of vibration remove the mould together with the base plate from the machine
and finish the top surface of the cube in the mould by smoothing surface with the blade of
a trowel.
CURING SPECIMEN:
1. Keep the filled moulds at a temperature of 27 + 20 C in an atmosphere of at least 90 %
relative humidity for about 24 hours after completion of vibration.
2. At the end of that period remove them from the moulds.
3. Immediately submerge in clean fresh water and keep them under water until testing.
4. The water in which the cubes are submerged shall be renewed every 7 days and shall be
maintained at a temperature of 27 0C + 20C.
5. After they have been taken out and until they are tested the cubes shall not be allowed to
become dry.
TESTING:
1. Test three cubes for compressive strength at the periods mentioned under the relevant
specification for different hydraulic cements, the periods being reckoned from the
completion of vibration.
2. The compressive strength shall be the average of the strengths of three cubes for each
period of curing.
3. The cubes shall be tested on their sides without any packing between the cube and the
steel platens of the testing machine.
4. One of the platens shall be carried base and shall be self adjusting and the load shall be
steadily and uniformly applied starting from zero at a rate of 350 Kgs/Cm2/ min.
The cubes are tested at the following periods
Ordinary portland cement 3, 7 and 28 days.
Rapid hardening portland cement 1 and 3 days.
Low heat portland cement 3 and 7 days.
CALCULATION:
Calculate the compressive strength from the crushing load and the average area over which the
load is applied. Express the results in N/mm2 to the nearest 0.05 mm2.
Compressive strength in N/mm2 = P/A =
Where P is the crushing load in N
and A is the area in mm2 (5000 mm2)
PRECAUTIONS: Inside of the cube moulds should be oiled to prevent the mortar from
adhering to the sides of the mould.
RESULT: The average compressive strength of the given cement
at 3 days N/mm2
at 7 days N/mm2
at 28 days N/mm2
COMMENTS:
 Experiment No.5

Aim: To determine the soundness of cement

Apparatus:

The apparatus for conducting the Le-Chatelier test should conform to IS: 5514 – 1969
Balance, whose permissible variation at a load of 1000g should be +1.0g and Water bath.

Procedure to determine soundness of cement

i) Place the mould on a glass sheet and fill it with the cement paste formed by gauging cement with 0.78 times
the water required to give a paste of standard consistency.

ii) Cover the mould with another piece of glass sheet, place a small weight on this covering glass sheet and
immediately submerge the whole assembly in water at a temperature of 27 ± 2oC and keep it there for 24hrs.

iii) Measure the distance separating the indicator points to the nearest 0.5mm (say d1 ).

iv) Submerge the mould again in water at the temperature prescribed above. Bring the water to boiling point in
25 to 30 minutes and keep it boiling for 3hrs.

v) Remove the mould from the water, allow it to cool and measure the distance between the indicator points
(say d2 ).

vi) (d2 – d1 ) represents the expansion of cement.

Observation

S.no 1 2 3
Initial reading(mm)
Final reading(mm)
Difference(mm)

Results

The expansion of cement is ………….mm.

Precautions:

1) Add the desired distilled water carefully.

2) Cement is weighted and gauged accurately and carefully.
3) The soundness of cement should not exceed from 10 mm.
4) The water is heated at room temperature.
II.Coarse Aggregate:

Experiment No. 1

Aim: - To determine the Crushing Value of Aggregate.

Theory:
The principal mechanical properties required in road stones are- (a) satisfactory
resistance to crushing under the roller during construction and (b)adequate resistance to
surfaceabrasion under traffic.

Aggregates used in road construction should be strong enough to resist crushing under
traffic wheel loads. If the aggregates are weak, the stability of the pavement structure is
likely to be adversely affected. The strength of coarse aggregates is assessed by
aggregate crushing test. The aggregate crushing value provides a relative measure of
resistance to crushing under a gradually applied compressive load. To achieve a high
quality of pavement, aggregate possessing low aggregate crushing value should be
preferred.
Apparatus:
The apparatus for the standard aggregate crushing test as per IS: 2386- 1963 (Part IV)
consists of the following:
1. Steel cylinder with open ends, internal diameter 152mm, square base plate, plunger having
a piston of diameter 150mm, with a hole provided across the stem of the plunger so that
rod could be inserted for lifting or placing the plunger in the cylinder.
2. A cylindrical measure having internal diameter of 115mm and a height of 180mm.
3. A straight steel tamping rod with one rounded end, having a diameter of 16mm and length
450 to 600mm.
4. Balance of capacity 3kg with accuracy up to 1gm.
5. Compression testing machine capable of applying load of 40tonnes at a uniform rate of
loading of 4 tonnes per minute.
IS sieves of sizes 12.5mm, 10mm and 2.36 mm

LINE DIAGRAM:

Fig.: Line diagram of Aggregate crushing value test apparatus

 Pictorial image:

Fig: Aggregate crushing value testing machine

Procedure:
1. The aggregate passing 12.5mm IS sieve and retained on 10mm IS sieve is selected for the
test. The aggregate should be in surface dry condition before testing. The aggregate may
be dried by heating at a temperature of 1000C to 1100C for a period of 4 hours and is tested
after being cooled to room temperature.
2. Take about 3.25 kg of this material.
3. The cylindrical measure is filled by the test sample of aggregates in three layers of
approximately equal depth, each layer being tamped 25 times by the rounded end of the
tamping rod. After the third layer is tamped, using the tamping rod as a straight edge, level
off the aggregate at the top cylindrical measure. The test sample is then weighed. The same
weight of the sample is taken in the successive test.
4. The cylinder of the test apparatus is placed in position on the base plate; one third of the
test sample is placed in this cylinder and tamped 25 times by the tamping rod. Similarly,
the other two layers are placed. The surface of the aggregates is levelled and the plunger is
inserted so that it rests on the surface in level position. The cylinder with the test sample
and the plunger is then placed on the compression testing machine. A load of 40 tonnes is
then applied through the plunger at a uniform rate of 4 tonnes per minute, and then the load
is released. Aggregates including the crushed portion are removed from the cylinder and
sieved on a 2.36mm IS sieve. The material which passes this sieve is the weighed.
5. The above procedure is repeated on the second sample.
 Precautions:
1. The plunger should be placed centrally and rest directly on the aggregates. Care should be
taken that it doesn’t touch the walls of the cylinder so as to ensure that the entire load s
transferred onto the aggregates.
2. In the operation of sieving the aggregates through 2.36 mm sieve and weighing care
should be taken to avoid loss of fines. The sum of weights of fractions retained and
passing the sieve should not differ from the original weight of the specimen by more than
1 gm.
3. The temping should be done properly by gently dropping the tamping rod and not by
hammering action. Also temping should be uniform over the surface of the aggregates
taking care that the temping rod doesn’t frequently strike against the wall of the mould.
Record of Observations: The aggregate crushing value is
given by:Aggregate crushing value = W2/W1 * (100)
Where, W1 = Total weight of dry sample.
W2 = weight of sample passing 2.36mm IS sieve.

Sample I Sample II
Total weight of dry sample taken,
W1 (gm.)
Weight of portion passing 2.36
mm sieve, W2 (gm.)
Aggregate crushing value
(percent)
Mean =
Aggregate crushing value =
Results: The mean of the two results to the nearest whole number is reported as the
“Aggregatecrushing value” of the material.
Limits:
For strong aggregates, this value should be low. For bituminous pavements, the
value shallnot exceed 30% for surface courses and it shall not exceed 45% for base
courses.
For cement concrete pavement, the value shall not exceed 30% for surface or
wearing course andit shall not exceed 45% for other than wearing course.
Questions for discussion:
i) Which property of aggregate is measured by this test?
ii) How is aggregate crushing value expressed?
iii) Should the aggregates having high aggregate crushing value be considered good for road
construction ?
iv) What are the uses of determining aggregate crushing value ?
 Experiment No. 2

Aim: - To determine the Impact value of Aggregate .

Theory:
Toughness is the property of a material to resist impact. Due to traffic loads, the road stones
are subjected to the pounding action or impact and there is possibility of stones breaking into
smaller pieces. The road stones should therefore be tough enough to resist fracture under impact.
A test designed to evaluate the toughness of stones i.e., the resistance of the stones to fracture
under repeated impacts may be called an impact test for road stones impact test may either be
carried out on cylindrical stone specimens as in Page Impact test or on stone aggregates as in
aggregate impact test. The Page Impact test is not carried out now-a-days and has also been omitted
from the revised British Standards for testing mineral aggregates. The aggregate impact test has
been standardized by the British standards institution and the Indian Standards Institution.The
aggregate impact value indicates a relative measure of the resistance of an aggregate to a sudden
shock or an impact, which in some aggregates differs from its resistance to a slow compressive
load. The method of test covers the procedure for determining the aggregate impact value of
coarse aggregates.
Apparatus:
The apparatus of the aggregate impact value test as per IS: 2386 (Part IV)- 1963 consists of:
o An impact testing machine weighing 45 to 60 kg and having a metal base with a plane
lower surface of not less than 30 cm in diameter. It is supported on level and plane concrete
floor of minimum 45 cm thickness. The machine should also have provisions for fixing its
base.
o A cylindrical steel cup of internal diameter 102 mm, depth 50 mm and minimum thickness
6.3 mm.
o A metal hammer weighing 13.5 to 14.0 kg the lower end is cylindrical in shape, is
50 mmlong, 100 mm in diameter.
o A cylindrical metal measure having internal diameter of 75 mm and depth 50
mm formeasuring aggregates.
o IS Sieves of sizes - 12.5mm, 10mm and 2.36mm
o A tamping rod of 10mm circular cross section and 230mm length, rounded at one end
o Oven
Line diagram:

Fig.: Aggregate impact test set up

Pictorial image:

Fig.: Impact testing machine

Procedure:
The test sample: It consists of aggregates sized 10 mm to 12.5 mm. The
aggregates should bedried by heating at 100°C-110°C for a periods of 4 hours
 and cooled.
1. Sieve the material through 12.5 mm and 10 mm IS sieves. The
aggregates passingthrough 12.5 mm sieve and retained on 10 mm sieve
comprises the test materials.
2. Pour the aggregates to fill about just 1/3rd depth of measuring cylinder.
3. Compact the material by giving 25 gentle blows with the rounded end of the tamping rod.
4. Add two more layers in similar manner, so that cylinder is full.
5. Strike off the surplus aggregates.
6. Determine the net weight of the aggregates to the nearest gram (W1).
7. Bring the impact machine to rest without wedging or packing upon the level
plate, blockor floor, so that it is rigid and the hammer guide columns are
vertical.
8. Fix the cup firmly in position on the base of machine and place whole of the
test samplein it and compact by giving 25 gentle strokes with tamping rod.

9. Raise the hammer until its lower face is 380 mm above the surface of the
aggregate sample in the cup and allow it to fall freely on the aggregate sample.
Give 15 such blowsat an interval of not less than one second between
successive falls.
10. Remove the crushed aggregates from the cup and sieve it through 2.36 mm IS
sieve andweight the fraction retained in the sieve.
11. Note down the observations in the table and compute the aggregate impact value.
Precautions:
1. Place the plunger centrally so that it falls directly on the aggregates sample and
does not touch the walls of the cylinder in order to ensure that the entire load is
transmitted on tothe aggregates.
2. In the operation of sieving the aggregates trough 2.36 mm sieve the sum of
weights of fractions retained and passing the sieve should not differ from the
original weight of thespecimen by more than 1 gm.
3. The tamping is to be done properly by gently dropping the tamping rod and
not by hammering action. Also the tampering should be uniform over the
surface of the aggregate taking care that the tamping rod does not frequently
strike against the walls ofthe mould.
Record of Observations:

Sample I Sample II
Total weight of dry sample
taken, W1 (gm.)
Weight of portion passing
2.36 mm sieve, W2 (gm.)
Aggregate impact value,
(W2/W1)*100
Aggregate impact mean value =
Results: The mean of the two results to the nearest whole number is reported as
the “AggregateImpact value” of the material.

Limits: The value shall not exceed 30% for bituminous surface courses and
cement concretewearing courses.
The maximum permissible value is 35 % for bituminous macadam ,40 %
for waterbound macadam base courses and 45 % for cement concrete
base courses
 Experiment No. 3
Aim: To determine water absorption of coarse aggregate.
Theory: For design of concrete mix, information about the specific gravity and water absorption of
the coarse aggregates are required. Specific gravity of aggregate provides valuable information on its
quality and properties. If the specific gravity is above or below than the value normally assigned to a
particular type of aggregate; it may indicate that shape and grading of aggregate has altered. It is also
important in determination of moisture contact and in many concrete mix design calculations. It is
also required for the calculation of volumeyield of concrete.

Reference: IS: 2386 (Part-3)-1963.

Apparatus: Balance of capacity 5kg weight, box wire basket 200mm in diameter, water
container for immersing the wire basket, absorbent cloth for surface drying of the sample
and thermos static drying oven.

Material:coarse aggregates (5 Kg),

Procedure:
1. A sample of not less than 2 Kg of the aggregate shall be thoroughly washed
to remove finer particles and dust, drained and then placed in the wire
basket and immersed in distilled water at a temperature between 22°C to
32°C with a cover of at least 5 cm of water above the top of the basket.
2. Immediately after immersion the entrapped air shall be removed from the
sample by lifting the basket containing it 25 mm above the base of the tank
and allowingit to drop 25 times at the rate of about one drop per second.
3. The basket and aggregate shall remain completely immersed during the
operation and for a period of 24 ± l/2 hours afterwards.
4. The basket and the sample shall then be jolted and weighed in water at a
temperature of 22°C to 32°C (weight A).
5. The basket and the aggregate shall then be removed from the water and
allowed to drain for a few minutes, after which the, aggregate shall be gently
emptied from the basket on to one of the dry clothes, and the empty basket
shall be returned to the water and weighed in water ( weight B ).
6. The aggregate placed on the dry cloth shall be gently surface dried with
the cloth, transferring it to the second dry cloth when the first will remove
no furthermoisture. The aggregate shall then be weighed (weight C).
7. The aggregate shall then be placed in the oven in the shallow tray, at a
temperature of 100 to 110°C and maintained at this temperature for 24 ±
l/2 hours. It shall then be removed from the oven, cooled in the airtight
containerand weighed (weight D).
 8. The specific gravity, apparent specific gravity and water &sorption
shall becalculated as.
Specific gravity = {𝐷⁄[𝐶 − (𝐴 − 𝐵)]} (1)
Apparent Specific gravity = �𝐷/�𝐷 − (𝐴 − 𝐵)�� (2)
Water absorption (in %) = 100 × [(𝐶 − 𝐷)/𝐷] (3)

Where,
A = Weight in g of aggregate and basket in
waterB = Weight in g of empty basket in water
C = Weight in g of the saturated surface - dry aggregate in
airD = Weight in g of oven dried aggregate in air.

Observations:

Weight of aggregate and basket in water (A)

Weight of empty basket in water (B)

Weight of the saturated surface - dry aggregate in air (C)

Weight of oven dried aggregate in air (D)

Specific gravity = [𝐷/(𝐶 − 𝐴 + 𝐵)]

Apparent Specific gravity = [𝐷/(𝐶 − 𝐷)]

Water absorption (in %) = 100 × [(𝐶 − 𝐷)/𝐷]

 Results and discussions:
Following results are obtained for the provided coarse aggregate specimen:

a) Specific gravity : .
b) Apparent specific gravity : .
c) Water absorption : %.

Precautions: (Discuss about the precautions to be taken while conducting this experiment)
 Experiment No. 6
Aim of the Experiment:
Gradation of coarse aggregates (fineness modulus) (IS 383 1970).

Test Standard Reference:

To determine the fineness modulus of coarse aggregates by classifications based on IS: 383-1970.

Theory:
Fineness modulus of coarse aggregates represents the average size of the particles in the coarse
aggregate by an index number. It is calculated by performing sieve analysis with standard sieves.
Higher the aggregate size higher the Fineness modulus hence fineness modulus of coarse aggregate
is higher than fine aggregate. In general, however, a smaller value indicates a finer aggregate.

Apparatus:
Set of IS sieve, weighing balance, trays and mechanical sieve-shaker.

Procedure:
1. Take 5 kg of coarse aggregate by quartering from the test sample.
2. Arrange the relevant sieves one above the other with the sieve size increasing from the top
and put the pan at the bottom.
3. Put the set of sieves over the sieve shaker and shake 2 to 3 minutes.
4. Weigh the amount of aggregate retained on each sieve.

Precautions:
1. The sample should be taken by quartering.
2. The sieving must be done carefully to prevent the spilling of fine aggregate.
 Observation and Result:

Sl. No. Sieve size Weight % Weight Cumulative % % Weight passing

retained retained retained (C) (finer)

∑C =

Fineness modulus (excluding C for pan) = ∑C/100

=
Conclusion:
III. Fine Aggregate (sand)
Experiment No.1

Aim:Sieve Analysis of Coarse and fine aggregates.

Theory: Aggregate is the inert, inexpensive materials dispersed throughout the cement paste so as the
produce a large volume of concrete. They constitute more than three quarters of volume of concrete.
They provide body to the concrete, reduce shrinkage and make it durable. The aggregates are
classified in two categories; fine aggregate and coarse aggregate. The size of fine aggregates is
limited to a maximum of 4.75 mm, beyond which it is known as coarse aggregates. Many a time, fine
aggregates are designated as coarse sand, medium sand and fine sand. These classifications do not
give any precise meaning. What the supplier terms as fine sand may be really medium or even coarse
sand. To avoid this ambiguity fineness modulus could be used as a yard stick to indicate the fineness
of sand and in general aggregates.

Fineness modulus for a given aggregate is obtained by sieving known weight of it in a set of standard
sieves and by adding the percent weight of material retained on all the sieves and dividing the total
percentage by 100. It serves the purpose of comparing one aggregate with another in respect of
fineness or coarseness. For classification of fine aggregates, the following limits may be taken as
guidance:

Fine sand: Fineness modulus should lie in between 2.2 to 2.6

Medium sand: Fineness modulus should lie in between 2.6 to 2.9

Coarse sand: Fineness modulus should lie in between 2.9 to 3.2

Sand having a fineness modulus more than 3.2 is unsuitable for making satisfactory concrete. The
coarse aggregates have fineness modulus usually more than 5.

A heap of aggregate is classified as a single sized aggregate when the bulk of aggregate passes one
sieve in normal concrete series and retained on next smaller size. Such aggregates are normally
expressed by the maximum size of the aggregates present in considerable amount in it. For example, a
heap of 20 mm size aggregate means that the heap contains maximum 20 mm size aggregate in a
substantial amount. A graded aggregate comprises of a proportion of all sizes in a normal concrete
series. When these sizes are so proportionated to provide a definite grading, it is known as well
graded aggregate. Well graded aggregates are desirable for making concrete, as the space between
larger particles is effectively filled by smaller particles to produce a well-packed structure. This
minimizes the cement requirement.

All-in aggregates comprise a mixture of coarse aggregate and fine aggregates. Such aggregates may
directly be used for low quality concreting. But in case of good quality concreting work; necessary
adjustments may be made in the grading by the addition of single-sized aggregates.

IS 383:1970 specifies four grading zones for fine aggregates. These four grading zones become
progressively finer from Grading Zone I to Grading Zone IV (see Table). The fine aggregates within
each of these grading zones are suitable for making concrete. But, the ratio of ratio of fine to coarse
aggregate reduces as the fine aggregate becomes finer from Grading Zones I to IV.
 Table 1 : Grading of fine aggregates

I.S. Sieve Percentage of passing by weight for grading

Designation Zone-I Zone-II Zone-III Zone-IV
4.75 mm 90-100 90-100 90-100 95-100
2.36 mm 60-95 75-100 85-100 95-100
1.18 mm 30-70 55-90 75-100 90-100
600 μ 15-34 35-59 60-79 80-100
300 μ 5-20 8-30 12-40 15-50
150 μ 0-10 0-10 0-10 0-15
The grading of coarse aggregate may vary through wider limits than that of fine
aggregates. However, this variation does not much affect the workability, uniformity and
finishing qualities of concrete mix. As per IS-383:1970 the grading limit of coarse aggregate,
both for single size as well as graded should be as per the table given below.

Table 2: Grading of single-graded coarse aggregates

Siev For Single-Sized Aggregate of Nominal Size

For Graded Aggregate of
Nominal Size
e 63 mm 40 mm 20 mm 16 mm 12.5 10 mm 40 mm 20 mm 16 mm 12.5
Siz mm mm
e Percentage of Passing by weight
(m for grading
m)
80 100 – – – – – 100 – – –
63 85 to 100 – – – – – – – –
100
40 0 to 30 85 to 100 – – – 95 to 100 – –
100 100
20 0 to 5 0 to 20 85 to 100 – – 30 to 95 to 100 100
100 70 100
16 – – – 85 to 100 – – – 90 to –
100 100
12. – – – – 85 to 100 – – – 90 to
5 100 100
10 0 to 5 0 to 5 0 to 20 0 to 30 0 to 45 85 to 10 to 25 to 30 to 40 to
100 35 55 70 85
4.7 – – 0 to 5 0 to 5 0 to 10 0 to 20 0 to 5 0 to 10 0 to 10 0 to 10
5
2.3 – – – – – 0 to 5 – – – –
6
 Experiment No.2

Aim: To determine the bulking of fine aggregates(fine sand)

Apparatus: Measuring cylindrical glass container, water, rod, damp sand, tray.

Procedure:

1. Place the damp sand into the container and measure the volume. (D)
2. Pour the sand onto the tray.
3. Half fill the container with water.
4. Put the sand into the container and mix using the rod until fully saturated.
5. Measure the height. (d)

Observation Table:

Detail 1 2 3

Depth of sand in measuring cylinder in loose state(D)

Depth of saturated sand in measuring cylinder(h)

Percentage of bulking= D – d x 100 ________________________

_________________________d dddddd________________

Result [Calculate as]

D – d x 100 __________________________________________________________________ d 1

Conclusion

This experiment shows very clearly that batching by volume can be very inaccurate, if the sand or aggregates
are damp. A mis-caculation of 32% would have an enormous effect on the strength of the concrete
IV. Cement Concrete

Experiment No-1

Aim:To determine the Workability of fresh Concrete by using Slump Test

Apparatus:
Slump cone, scale, graduated cylinder and balance, stop watch, tamping rod, tray

Theory

Slump test is used to determine the workability of fresh concrete. Slump test as per IS: 1199 – 1959 is
followed. The apparatus used for doing slump test are Slump cone and Tamping rod.

Procedure to determine workability of fresh concrete by slump test

i) The internal surface of the mould is thoroughly cleaned and applied with a light coat of oil.
ii) The mould is placed on a smooth, horizontal, rigid and nonabsorbent surface.
iii) The mould is then filled in four layers with freshly mixed concrete, each approximately to one-fourth of the
height of the mould.
iv) Each layer is tamped 25 times by the rounded end of the tamping rod (strokes are distribut-ed evenly over
the cross section).
v) After the top layer is rodded, the concrete is struck off the level with a trowel.
vi) The mould is removed from the concrete immediately by raising it slowly in the vertical direction.
vii) The difference in level between the height of the mould and that of the highest point of the subsided
concrete is measured.
viii) This difference in height in mm is the slump of the concrete.

Observation
S.no. w/c ratio Slump(mm)

Results

The slump measured should be recorded in mm of subsidence of the specimen during the test. Any slump
specimen, which collapses or shears off laterally gives incorrect result and if this occurs, the test should be
repeated with another sample. If, in the repeat test also, the specimen shears, the slump should be measured and
the fact that the specimen sheared, should be recorded.

Precautions:

1) Raw material should be measure accurately.

2) Mix all ingradients thoroughly before adding water to concrete.
3) The slump concrete must be filled in 3 layers with atleast 25 no. of blow at each layer by tamping rod.
 Experiment No-2

Aim: To find the compressive strength of Concrete.

Apparatus:

Compression testing machine, moulds(15x15x15 cm)

Theory:
The Compression Test is a laboratory test to determine the characteristic strength of the concrete but the
making of test cubes is sometimes carried out by the supervisor on site. This cube test result is very important
to the acceptance of insitu concrete work since it demonstrates the strength of the design mix.

Procedure:

The procedure of making the test cubes is as follows: -

1.150 mm standard cube mold is to be used for concrete mix and 100 mm standard cube mold is to be used for
grout mix.
2. Arrange adequate numbers of required cube molds to site in respect with the sampling sequence for the
proposed pour
3. Make sure the apparatus and associated equipment are clean before test and free from hardened concrete
and superfluous water
4. Assemble the cube mold correctly and ensure all nuts are tightened.
5. Apply a light coat of proprietary mold oil on the internal faces of the mold.
6. Place the mold on level firm ground and fill with sampled concrete to a layer of about
50 mm thick.
7. Compact the layer of concrete thoroughly by tamping the whole surface area with the
Standard Tamping Bar. (Note that no less than 35 tamps / layer for 150 mm mold and no
less than 25 tamps / layer for 100 mm mold).

8. Repeat Steps 5 & 6 until the mold is all filled. (Note that 3 layers to be proceeded for
150 mm mold and 2 layers for 100 mm mold).
9. Remove the surplus concrete after the mold is fully filled and trowel the top surface flush with the mold.
10. Mark the cube surface with an identification number (say simply 1, 2, 3, etc) with a nail or match stick and
record these numbers in respect with the concrete truck and location of pour where the sampled concrete is
obtained.
11. Cover the cube surface with a piece of damp cloth or polythene sheeting and keep the cube in a place free
from vibration for about 24 hours to allow initial set
12. Strip off the mold pieces in about 24 hours after the respective pour is cast. Press the concrete surface with
the thumb to see any denting to ensure the concrete is sufficiently hardened, or otherwise de-molding has to be

delayed for one more day and this occurrence should be stated clearly in the Test Report.
13. Mark the test cube a reference number with waterproof felt pen on the molded side, in respect with the
previous identification number
14. Place the cube and submerge in a clean water bath or preferably a thermostatically controlled curing tank
until it is delivered to the accredited laboratory for testing.
 Figure 7. Example of test cube data form

Casting date ................... Hull type ...................

Cube Date Age at Weight of Load at Load at Comments on manufacture and

No tested test cube failure failure testing
kg/cm2 lb/in2
/7
/7
/28
/28
/96
/96
V.Reinforcing Steel

Experiment No.1

Aim: -To determine tensile test on a mild steel.

Object: - To conduct a tensile test on a mild steel specimen and determine the following: (i) Limit of
proportionality (ii) Elastic limit (iii) Yield strength (IV) Ultimate strength (v) Young’s modulus of elasticity
(VI) Percentage elongation (vii) Percentage reduction in area.

Appratus: - (i) Universal Testing Machine (UTM) (ii) Mild steel specimens (iii) Graph paper (iv) Scale (v)
Vernier Caliper

Theory:-The tensile test is most applied one, of all mechanical tests. In this test ends of test piece are fixed into
grips connected to a straining device and to a load measuring device. If the applied load is small enough, the
deformation of any solid body is entirely elastic. An elastically deformed solid will return to its original from
as soon as load is removed. However, if the load is too large, the material can be deformed permanently. The
initial part of the tension curve which is recoverable immediately after unloading is termed. As elastic and the
rest of the curve which represents the manner in which solid undergoes plastic deformation is termed plastic.
The stress below which the deformations essentially entirely elastic is known as the yield strength of material.
In some material the onset of plastic deformation is denoted by a sudden drop in load indicating both an upper
and a lower yield point. However, some materials do not exhibit a sharp yield point. During plastic
deformation, at larger extensions strain hardening cannot compensate for the decrease in section and thus the
load passes through a maximum and then begins to decrease. This stage the “ultimate strength”’ which is
defined as the ratio of the load on the specimen to original cross-sectional area, reaches a maximum value.
Further loading will eventually cause ‘neck’ formation and rupture.

PROCEDURE:-

1. Measure the original length and diameter of the specimen. The length may either be length of gauge section
which is marked on the specimen with a preset punch or the total length of the specimen.
2. Insert the specimen into grips of the test machine and attach strain-measuring device to it.
3. Begin the load application and record load versus elongation data.
4. Take readings more frequently as yield point is approached.
5. Measure elongation values with the help of div0iders and a ruler.
6. Continue the test till Fracture occurs.
7. By joining the two broken halves of the specimen together, measure the final length and diameter of
specimen.

OBESERVATION:- A) Material:

a) Original dimensions Length = ------------ Diameter = --------- Area = --------------

b)Final Dimensions: Length = ------------------- Strength Of Materials Diameter = ----------------- Area = ---------
---------------

OBESERVATION TABLE:-
 S.No Load Load(N) Original Extension(mm) Stress=Load/Area(N/mm2 ) Increase in
Gauge length
length
Strain = ----

Original
length

To plot the stress strain curve and determine the following.

(i) Limit pf proportion Load at limit of proportionality/Original area of cross-section N/mm2 =….N/m

(ii) Elastic limit = load at elastic limit/ Original area of c/s

(iii) Yield strength Yield load /Original area of cross-section=….N/mm2
(iv) Ultimate strength Maximum tensile load /Original area of cross-section=….N/mm2
(v) Young’s modulus, E -= stress below paranormality limit/ Corresponding strain= N/mm2
(vi) Percentage elongation Final length (at fracture) – original length / Original length= ….%
(vii) Percentage reduction in area Original area-area at fracture / Original area=….%

RESULT:- i) Average Breaking Stress = ii) Ultimate Stress = iii) Average % Elongation =

PRECAUTION:- 1. If the strain measuring device is an extensometer it should be removed before necking
begins. 2. Measure deflection on scale accurately & carefully
VI. Non – Destructive Testing on Concrete (for demonstration)

Aim: To determine the strength of wall and floor by non-destructive method(Rebound hammer).

Apparatus: Rebound Hammer

PROCEDURE:
1. The plunger is pressed against the surface of the concrete, the non rebound from the plunger. It
retracts against the force of the spring.
2. The hammer impacts against the concrete and the spring control rebonds, taking the sides with it
along the guide scale.
3. By pushing a button the rider can be held in position to allow the reading to be taken.
4. The distance traveled by the mass is called the rebound hammer. It indicates by the side moving
along a graduated scale.
5. The test can be conducted horizontally, vertically upwards or downwards or it any intermediate
angle.
6. At each angle the rebound no. will be different for the same concrete and will require separate
calibration or correction chart.
7. Note down the compressive strength from rebound no. vs compressive strength graph.

Result:

Rebound hammer no. of floor =

Compressive strength =

Rebound hammer no. of wall =

Compressive strength =

Precautions:

1)The plunger should be carefully pressed against the surface of the concrete when test is conducted at
intermediate angle.

2)The surface should be smooth which is going to undergo testing.

3)Press the button instantly when the plunger is pressed against the surface to note down the reading.
VIII. Bricks:
Experiment No-1:
Objective: To determines water absorption of brick.

Apparatus: a) Dry bricks b) Weighing machine

Material required: Bricks

Theory: Brick for external use must be capable of preventing rain water from passing through them to
the inside of walls of reasonable thickness. A good brick should aborb water maximum 1/7 th of the
weight of the brick.

Procedure: (i) 20 bricks are taken randomly from a stack.

(ii) The bricks are put in an oven at a temperature of 1050 C for drying.
(iii) Bricks are weighed in a digital weighing machine and is record asW1
(iv) The bricks are immersed in water at room temperature for 24 hours.
(v) After 24 hours immersion, the bricks are taken out of water and wiped with a damp cloth for 3
minutes.
(vi) The bricks are weight again and recorded as W2.
(vii) Calculate water absorption of brick Observation: Sl No Weight W1(Kg) Weight W2 (Kg) Water

S.No Weight W1(Kg) Weight W2 Water Remarks

(Kg) absorption
in %

Conclusion/Result: Water absorption in % is calculated as................................

 Experiment No-3:

Aim: To determine the compressive strength of bricks.

Apparatus: Compressive strength testing machine Material required: Bricks, Water, Sand, Cement,
Trowel Theory: Bricks are mostly subjected to compression and tension. The usual crushing strength of
common hand moulded well burnt bricks is about 5 to 10 N/mm2 (50 to 100/kg/cm2) varying according
to the nature of preparation of the clay. Pressed and machine moulded bricks made of thoroughly pugged
clay are stronger than common hand moulded bricks from carelessly prepared clay.

Procedure:
1. Eight bricks are taken for the compressive strength testing.
2. The bricks are then immersed in water at room temperature for 24 hours.
3. Then these are taken out of water and surplus water on the surfaces is wiped off with a moist cloth.
4. The frog of the bricks is flushed level with cement mortar (1:3)
5. The bricks are stored under damp jute bags for 24 hours followed by its immersion in water at room
temperature for three days.
6. The bricks are placed in the compression testing machine with flat faces horizontal and mortar filled
face being upwards.
7. Load is applied at a uniform rate of 14 N/ m2 per minute till failure.

Observation:
S.No Load at Average area Compressive Remarks
Failure (N) of back faces Strength.
(mm2 ) (N/mm2 )

Conclusion/Result: Average strength of bricks.........………….

 Experiment No.: 4
Aim: To determine the efflorescence of bricks.

Equipment/Machines:
Bricks, Water

Principle: Efflorescence is characterized by the white powder patches on the surface of the brick work,
brought to the surface by water and deposited by evaporation. These Sault may be from saltwater in
contact with brickwork, or from the mortar in the masonry joints or from the salt within the brick.

Methods/Procedures:
1. Nil - When the deposited of Efflorescence is impressible.
2. Slight - When the deposited of Efflorescence does not cover more than 10% of the exposed area. the
brick
3. Moderate - When the deposited of Efflorescence more than 10% but less then 50% of the exposed
area the brick
4. Heavy - When the deposited of Efflorescence more than 50% but the deposits do not power or flake
away the brick surface.
5. Serious - When the deposits are heavy and power or flake away the brick surface.

Conclusion: Efflorescence value of brick = ………..