CEN 102 – Construction Materials and

Testing
Laboratory Report

Experiment No. 1
Reducing Samples of Coarse and Fine Aggregates to Testing Size

Group Members:

● CAPRICHO, Julie Monton

● Panto, Carl Laurence

● SY, Jeretza Mae Cutanda

● TANGCAWAN, Sharmine Rose Roble
● TAMBIS, Gene Arthur Jayme

Introduction
Aggregate testing is crucial for assessing construction material quality. This lab
examines two methods: quartering for coarse aggregates and mechanical splitting
for fine aggregates.
The aim is to grasp these procedures and their importance in obtaining
representative test specimens. Coarse aggregates, vital for concrete, are reduced
via quartering, while fine aggregates, crucial for cohesion, are mechanically split.
Challenges like fines loss and dust generation are tackled. This experiment deepens
our understanding of sampling techniques, ensuring precise test results for
engineering applications and safer infrastructure development.

Objectives
 Understand the principles and procedures involved in reducing aggregate
samples through quartering and mechanical splitting methods.
 Gain proficiency in executing the quartering technique for coarse aggregates
to obtain representative test specimens.
 Develop skills in employing mechanical splitters to divide fine aggregates into
desired sample sizes accurately.
 Address challenges such as fines loss and dust generation during the
sampling process and implement appropriate solutions.
 Enhance knowledge of aggregate sampling techniques to ensure the
reliability and accuracy of test results for engineering applications.
Materials and Equipment
 CEN 102 – Construction Materials and
Testing
Laboratory Report

● Straight-edged scoop
● Shovel
● Broom or brush
● 2 sets of approximately 5 kg.
● approximately 4 liters
● Mechanical Splitter
● Pan

Experimental Procedure
 Quartering:
Place the original sample on a hard, clean, level surface.
1. Mix the material thoroughly by turning the entire sample over with
the shovel at least three times. With the last turning, shovel the
entire sample into a conical pile by depositing each shovelful on top
of the preceding one.
2. Carefully flatten the conical pile to a uniform thickness and diameter
by pressing down the apex with the shovel so that each quarter
section of the resulting pile will contain the material initially in a pile.
The pile diameter should be approximately four to eight times the
thickness.
3. Divide the flattened pile into four equal quarters with the shovel or
trowel.
4. Remove two diagonally opposite quarters, including all fine
materials. Brush the
cleared spaces clean.
5. Successively mix and quarter the remaining material in the
same fashion as the original sample. Continue this process until the
following quantities are obtained:
 2 sets of approximately 5kg
 Approximately 4l
● Mechanical Splitter
1. 1Place the original sample on a hard, clean, level surface.
2. 2Mix the material thoroughly by turning the entire sample over
with the shovel at least three times. With the last turning, shovel
the entire sample into a conical pile by depositing each shovelful
on top of the preceding one.
3. 3 Carefully flatten the conical pile to a uniform thickness and
diameter by pressing down the apex with the shovel so that each
quarter section of the resulting pile will contain the material
initially in a pile.
 CEN 102 – Construction Materials and
Testing
Laboratory Report

Data Collection and Analysis

● Presentation of raw data in organized tables.
● Description of measurement techniques and tools used.
● Any precautions taken during data collection.
● Calculations and analyses performed on the collected data.
● Graphs, charts, or other visual representations to aid in understanding.

Results
● Presentation of the analyzed data.
● Clear and concise discussion of key findings.

Discussion
 Interpretation of Results: The quartering and mechanical splitting methods
successfully produced representative aggregate samples, aligning with our
research objectives. Coarse aggregates were uniformly reduced using
quartering, while fine aggregates were accurately divided with mechanical
splitters.
 Comparison with Theoretical Expectations: Our findings correspond with
established literature on aggregate sampling techniques, validating the
reliability of both methods. The effectiveness of quartering for coarse
aggregates and mechanical splitting for fine aggregates was consistent with
theoretical expectations.
 Identification of Sources of Error: Potential sources of error included fines loss
during mechanical splitting and variations in operator technique. These
factors may have impacted sample integrity and size uniformity.
 Mitigation Strategies: To address fines loss, maintaining optimal sample
moisture levels is recommended. Additionally, standardizing operator
procedures can minimize variability and improve reproducibility.
Conclusion

 Summary of Main Findings: Our investigation demonstrated the effectiveness of quartering and
mechanical splitting methods in producing representative aggregate samples. Despite
challenges, such as fines loss and operator variability, mitigation strategies ensured reliable
results.
 Implications for Geotechnical Engineering: These findings hold significance for geotechnical
engineering, particularly in construction material quality assessment. Reliable sampling
techniques are essential for informing engineering decisions and ensuring infrastructure safety
and durability.
 CEN 102 – Construction Materials and
Testing
Laboratory Report

 Suggestions for Future Research: Future research could focus on refining sampling techniques to
minimize fines loss and improve operator training. Additionally, enhancements to the
experimental setup, such as advanced instrumentation, could enhance accuracy and
reproducibility. These improvements would contribute to the continual advancement of
aggregate testing practices in geotechnical engineering.

Recommendations
 Standardize Procedures: Develop standardized protocols for both quartering
and mechanical splitting methods to minimize operator variability and ensure
consistency across experiments.
 Optimize Moisture Control: Implement precise moisture control measures,
such as adding water to dry samples before mechanical splitting, to mitigate
fines loss and maintain sample integrity.
 Regular Equipment Calibration: Schedule regular calibration of equipment,
including mechanical splitters, to ensure accurate sample division and
minimize measurement errors.
 Document Procedure Variations: Maintain detailed records of any variations
in sampling procedures or conditions encountered during experiments,
facilitating better analysis and interpretation of results.
 Continuous Training: Provide ongoing training and education for operators
involved in aggregate sampling, focusing on best practices, troubleshooting
techniques, and adherence to established protocols to improve proficiency
and reliability.
References
● Complete citations for all sources referenced in the report.
● Follow APA format.

Appendices:
CEN 102 – Construction Materials and
Testing
Laboratory Report