PAVEMENT MATERIALS AND EVALUATION LABORATORY

Name: AKULA SHYAMSUNDER Roll No: 191703

Class: M.Tech 1st Year (2 sem) Branch: Transportation Division

INDEX

Seria
Page No Page no
l TITLE MARKS
From To
No
1 Test on Soils 1 26
2 Test on Aggregates 27 37
3 Test on Bitumen 38 50
AVERAGE
TEST ON SOILS
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

1. Soil Classification

Objective: To determine the relative proportions of different grain sizes of the soil particles.
Background: Grain size analysis, also known as mechanical analysis of soil, is the
determination of the percent of individual grain sizes present in the soil sample or ‘grain size
distribution’ of the soil. Soil classification systems divide soils into groups and subgroups
based on common engineering properties such as grain-size distribution, liquid limit, and
plastic limit. The two major classification systems presently in use are (1) the AASHTO
(American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials) Systems and (2) the
Unified Soil Classification System (also ASTM), the AASHTO classification system is used
mainly for classification of highway sub grade.
The AASHTO Soil Classification System was originally proposed by the Highway Research
Board’s Committee on Classification of Materials for Sub grade and Granular Type Roads
(1945). According to the present form of this system, soils can be classified according to
eight major groups, A -1 through A-8, based on their grain-size distribution, liquid limit, and
plasticity indices. Soils listed in groups A-1, A-2, and A-3 are coarse-grained materials, and
those in groups A-4, A-5, A-6, and A-7 are fine-grained materials. Peat, muck, and other
highly organic soils are classified under A-8. They are identified by visual inspection.
The Unified Soil Classification System was originally proposed by A. Casagrande in 1942
and was later revised and adopted by the United States Bureau of Reclamation and the Corps
of Engineers. Soil is classified according to its plasticity index and its percentage fraction
mostly.
The Bureau of Indian Standards have classified based on Unified Soil Classification System
with a modification of three subdivisions of fine grained soils. The system is based on those
characteristics of the soil which indicate how it will behave as a construction material. The
soils are classified into four groups based on particle size. The coarse fraction of soil and rock
particles or cohesion less aggregates of size between 80 mm and 4.75 mm is called gravel and
the next smaller fraction of size between 4.75 mm and 0.075 mm (or 75 micron) is called
sand. The soil fractions with particle size smaller than 75 micron are called soil fines or fine
grained soil fraction which consist of silt and clay. The fine grained soil fraction of size
between 0.075 mm (75 microns) and 0.002 mm (2 micron) is called silt and the portion of
fine soil particles smaller than 0.002 mm (2 micron) size is called clay. Sits are fined grained
soils with low or no plasticity.
Sieve analysis is conducted on the soil sample using a set of sieves to determine the
percentage or proportion of different sizes of materials or soil particles that are present in the
sample. The smallest mesh sieve commonly used has sieve opening of about 0.075 mm. Soil
particles consisting of silt and clay which are smaller than 0.075 mm size can pass through
the fine mesh sieve with 0.075 mm opening, when washed using water. Therefore the grain
size analysis of the finer fraction passing 0.075 mm sieve is carried out using the principle of
sedimentation in water.

Transportation Division 1 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

The sieve analysis is a simple test consisting of sieving a measured quantity of material
through successively smaller sieves. Two methods of sieve analysis are:
1. Grain size distribution by Dry sieve analysis, applicable only to coarse soils retains on
4.75 mm sieve and to non- cohesive sand or sandy soils passing 4.75 mm sieve with
practically no fines (silt and clay)
2. Grain size distribution by Wet sieve analysis, applicable to all soil samples passing
4.75 mm sieve with some cohesion or soil containing fines (silt and clay).
Grain size analysis of soils by dry and wet sieve analysis are quite adequate for the purpose
of soil classification and for assessing the essential properties of soil as a highway
construction material.
Apparatus:
Dry sieve analysis
1. Balance –sensitive to 0.1 percent of the weight of sample to be weighed.
2. Sieves –IS sieves of 4.25 mm, 2 mm, 1.18 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.425 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.15
mm, 0.075 mm and also the bottom pan or receiver.
3. Rubber covered pestle and mortar
4. Thermostatically controlled drying oven to maintain temperature of soil at 105°C to
110°C
Preparation of sample for dry sieve analysis: The soil sample collected from the field is
sieved and passing 4.75 mm sieve is dried in oven at 105°C to 110°C.
Procedure:
1. 1 kg of dry oven soil was used for the test.
2. The test was done manually and no sieve shaker machine was used.
3. Soil lumps present are broken with the help of rubber covered pestle
4. Sieves are arranged one above the other with the pan at the bottom.
5. The test sieve sizes,4.25 mm, 2 mm, 1.18 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.425 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.15 mm,
0.075 mm and also the bottom pan or receiver, placed one above the other in the
increasing order for dry sieve analysis.
6. Soil sample is allowed to pass through each of the sieves arranged.
7. After sieving thoroughly, materials retained on each sieve was carefully collected and
weighed.
8. Cumulative percentage of soil retained on each sieve is calculated and gradation curve
plotted.
Precautions:
 During shaking the lid on the topmost sieve should be kept tight to prevent escape of
soils.
 While drying the soil, the temperature of the oven should not be more than 105°c
because higher temperature may cause some permanent change in the fraction.

Transportation Division 2 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

Observations and calculations:

Table 1.1: Results of dry sieve analysis (retained on 4.75 mm sieve)
Weight of
IS Sieve % Weight Cumulative % Cumulative %
soil retained,
mm retained weight retained finer
gm
4.75 115 11.50 11.50 88.50
2 190.75 19.08 30.58 69.43
1.18 139.2 13.92 44.50 55.51
0.6 201.4 20.14 64.64 35.37
0.425 99.78 9.98 74.61 25.39
0.3 80.71 8.07 82.68 17.32
0.15 116.59 11.66 94.34 5.66
0.075 34 3.40 97.74 2.26
Pan 16.65 1.67 99.41 0.59
994.08

100
Particle size distrbution
90

80

70
Percentage of Finer

60

50
Particle size distrbution
40

30

20

10

0
0.1 1 10 100

Grain size, mm

Figure 1.1: Grain size distribution diagram

Results:
Uniformity coefficient (Cu) = D60/D10 = 1/0.2 = 5
Coefficient of curvature (Cc) = D230/ (D60*D10) = 0.512/ (1*0.2) = 1.25
So, the soil is well graded.

Transportation Division 3 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

Discussion:
The gradation and the range of the grain sizes present in the soil is generally measured and
reported in terms of ‘Uniformity Coefficient’ (Cu)which is expressed as D60 /D10, where D60
and D10 are particle size corresponding to 60% and 10 % fines in the grain size distribution
diagram. A high value of uniformity coefficient, such as greater than 4 or 5 indicates the
presence of a wide range of particle sizes in the soil or that the soil is well graded. A low C u
value of the order of less than 2 indicates uniformly graded soil, the lowest possible value
being 1 for soil with single size.
Application:
The results of grain size analysis on soil are made use of in soil classification and to assess
various other soil properties such as permeability, capillarity, density and stability after
compaction, bearing capacity etc. The other uses of grain size analysis are for the design of
drainage materials and soil-aggregate mixtures for mechanical stabilization of soils. It is also
possible to assess pavement performance with respect to potential frost susceptibility of the
sub grade soil and possible failure of rigid pavements due to pumping action.
References:
 Bureau of Indian Standards, Classification and Identification of Soils for General
Engineering Purposes (first revision), IS 1498-1970 (reaffirmed 2007)
 Bureau of Indian Standards, Methods of test for soils, Part 4: Grain size analysis
(Second Revision), IS 2720-1985 (Reaffirmed 2006)
 ASTM D2487-11, Standard Practice for Classification of Soils for Engineering
Purposes
 ASTM D2488-09a, Standard Practice for Description and Identification of Soils

Transportation Division 4 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

2. Atterberg Limits
2.1 Liquid limit
Objective: To determine the liquid limit for the given soil sample
Background: Liquid limit is the water content for which the soil passes through zero strength
to infinitesimal strength, hence true value of liquid limit cannot be determined. It is the water
content at which the sol changes from plastic state to liquid state.
Apparatus: Cassagrande’s liquid limits device, A.S.T.M. and B.S. grooving tool
(Cassagrande’s type), 425 microns I.S. sieve, Balance (0.01 gm sensitivity) and drying oven.
Theory: Liquid limit is the water content at which soil passes from zero strength to an
Infinitesimal strength, hence the true value of liquid limit cannot be determined. For
determination purpose liquid limit is that water content at which a part of soil, cut by a
groove of standard dimensions, will flow together for a distance of 1.25cm under an impact
of 25 blows in a standard liquid limit apparatus. The soil at the water content has some
strength which is about 0.17 N/cm 2 (17.6 gm/cm 2). At this water content soil just passes
from liquid state to plastic state.

Figure 2.1: Relationship between Volume of soil and Its Moisture Content

Indian standard soil classification chart can be used to determine the soil type (IS 1498-
1970).
Procedure:

Transportation Division 5 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

1. The cup of the liquid limit apparatus was adjusted with the help of grooving tool
gauge & the adjustment plate to give a drop of exactly 1 cm on the point of contact on
base.
2. 120gm of an air dried sample passing 425 μ sieve was taken for performing the test.
3. Water added to the sample and mixed thoroughly to from a uniform paste.

4. A portion of the paste placed in the cup of the liquid limit device, the surface
smoothed with spatula to a maximum depth of 1cm.

5. Then, drew the grooving tool through the sample along the symmetrical axis of the
cup, holding the tool perpendicular to the cup.

Transportation Division 6 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

6. The handle was turned at a rate of 2 revolutions per second and blows counted until
two parts of the soil sample came into contact at the bottom of the soil sample come
into contact at the bottom of the groove along a distance of 10mm.
7. About 15gm of the soil forming the edges of the groove that flowed together to water
content were sampled, kept in oven for 24 hours, water content was determined after
oven drying.
8. Transfer the remaining soil in the cup to the main soil sample in the basin and mix
thoroughly after adding a small amount of water
9. Repeat steps 4, 5 and 6. Obtain at least four sets of readings in the range of 10 to 40
blows.
Observation and Calculations: -
Table 2.1: Determination of Moisture Content

Samples
S.No. Determination
1 2 3 4

1 No. of blows 29 23 19 16

2 Container Number A B C D E

3 Mass of container + Wet Soil(gm) 29.03 28.44 30.91 29.4

4 Mass of container + dry soil(gm) 24.11 23.18 24.93 23.18

5 Mass of Water = (3)-(4) (gm) 4.92 5.26 5.98 6.22

6 Mass of container (gm) 11.46 11.67 12.05 10.96

7 Mass of Dry soil (4)-(6) (gm) 12.65 11.51 12.88 12.22

8 Moisture content= (5/7)*100, % 38.89 45.70 46.43 50.90

Graph were drawn between moisture content and number of blows, the moisture content
corresponding to 25 no. of blows is the liquid limit, shown in figure 2.1.

Transportation Division 7 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

60 Liqid limit

50

40
Water content

30 Liqid limit
Linear (Liqid limit)

20

10

0
14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30
No.of blows

Figure 2.2: Number of blows Vs Water Content (%)

Precautions:
1. Use distilled water in order to minimize the possibility of iron exchange between the
soil and any impurities in the water.
2. Soil used for liquid determinations should not be oven dried prior to testing.
3. In liquid limit test, the groove should be closed by a flow of the soil and not by
slippage between the soil and the cup.
4. After mixing distilled water to the soil sample, sufficient time should be given to
permeate the water throughout the soil mass.
5. Wet soil taken in the container for moisture content determination should not be left
open in the air even for some time.
6. For each test, cup and grooving tool, should be clean.
Result: The liquid limit for the given soil sample found to be 42.5 %.
Applications: liquid limit value used for the classification of fine grained cohesive soil by
Indian standard soil classification. Once soil classified, it helps to understand the behavior of
the soil and selecting the maintenance of the structure made up or/and made up of soil.
References:
1. IS:2720(Part5)-1985 Determination of Liquid Limit
2. IS 1498-1970 -Classification and Identification of soils for general Engineering

Transportation Division 8 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

Purpose
2.1.1 Plastic limit
Objective: To determines the plastic limit of soils.
Theory: The objective of the Atterberg limits test is to obtain basic index information about
the soil used to estimate strength and settlement characteristics.  It is the primary form of
classification for cohesive soils. Fine-grained soil is tested to determine the liquid and plastic
limits, which are moisture contents that define boundaries between material consistency
states.  These standardized tests produce comparable numbers used for soil identification,
classification and correlations to strength. The liquid (LL) and plastic (PL) limits define the
water content boundaries between non-plastic, plastic and viscous fluid states.  The plasticity
index (PI) defines the complete range of plastic state.

Plastic Limit (PL): The plastic limit (PL) is determined by rolling out a thread of the fine
portion of a soil on a flat, non-porous surface. The procedure is defined in ASTM Standard
D4318.
If the soil is plastic, this thread will retain its shape down to a very narrow diameter. The
sample can then be remolded and the test repeated. As the moisture content falls due to
evaporation, the thread will begin to break apart at larger diameters. The plastic limit is
defined as the moisture content where the thread breaks apart at a diameter of 3.2 mm (about
1/8 inch). A soil is considered non-plastic if a thread cannot be rolled out down to 3.2 mm at
any moisture.
Procedural errors for the PL
 improper technique in rolling thread
 thread not 1/8 in. diameter
 moisture content sample too small
 air drying of soil before moisture content taken
Apparatus:
 Porcelain evaporating dish, 102–127 mm (4–5 in.) in diameter.
 Flexible spatula, blade approximately 102 mm (4 in.) long × 19 mm (0.75 in.) wide.
 Balance
 Drying oven, maintained at 110 ± 5°C.
 Moisture containers
 Rod of 3 mm diameter

Transportation Division 9 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

 Rolling surface, minimum area of 300 × 300 mm (12 × 12 in.), non-absorptive,

noncorrosive, light surface texture (e.g., ground glass plate, linoleum, or plastic-faced
plywood).

Figure 1: Plastic limit apparatus

Procedure:
1. 20 g of soil mass passing sieve 425 micron was taken for the test.
2. Soil was mixed thoroughly with distilled waterin the evaporating dish until the soil
paste is plastic enough to be easily molded with fingers.
3. A small ball (about 8-gram weight) was formed with the fingers and this is rolled
between the fingers and ground glass plate to a thread throughout its length.
4. The rolling was done till the diameter of the thread is 3 mm. then the soil is kneaded
together to a ball and rolled again to form thread, which during this process of
alternate rolling and kneading there will be loss in water content in the soil sample
and gradually become stiffer.
5. The thread which started crumbling at 3mm diameter under normal rolling pressure
were obtained and the pieces of the crumbled thread of soil sample were transferred to
an air tight moisture container.
6. The containers with specimen were kept in oven for 24 hours.
7. The process repeated three times.
8. The plastic limit of the soil was determined.

Note: A normal rate of rolling for most soils is 80–90 strokes per minute, counting a stroke as
one complete motion forward and backward to the starting position. This rate of rolling may
have to be decreased for very fragile soils.
1. Taking no more than two minutes, further deform the threads on each stroke so the
diameters are continuously reduced and the lengths are extended, until the diameters
reach 3.2 0.5 mm (1/8 0.02 in.)

Transportation Division 10 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

2. Reduce the diameter of the threads to 3.2 ± 0.5 mm (1/8 ± 0.2 in.) Break each thread
into several pieces. Squeeze the pieces of each thread together, knead between the
thumb and first finger, and reform into an ellipsoidal mass.
3. Repeat Sections 5.3–5.6 until the soil crumbles under the pressure required for rolling
and can no longer be rolled into a 3.2 mm (1/8 in.) diameter thread. There is no
problem if the thread breaks into shorter segments before reaching the 3.2 mm (1/8
in.) diameter.
4. Roll each of these shorter segments to 3.2 mm (1/8 in.) diameter.
5. Gather the portions of the crumbled threads and place in a tared container.
Immediately cover the container.
6. Continue the procedure to accumulate at least 10 g of sample rolled to the 3.2 mm
(1/8 in.) diameter.
7. Weigh and record the mass of the sample and container to the nearest 0.01 g. Dry the
soil sample in the container to a constant mass in a 110C (230F) oven.
8. Weigh and record the mass of the dry soil and container to the nearest 0.01 g.
9. The operator should at no time attempt to produce failure at exactly 3.2 mm (1/8 in.)
by reducing the rate of rolling and/or pressure, while continuing the rolling without
further deformation.
10. For low Plasticity Index (PI) soils, it is permissible to reduce the initial diameter of
the ellipsoidal mass to near the required 3.2 mm (1/8 in.) final diameter.
11. Use palm, finger, or a flexible spatula to roll low PI materials.
12. If crumbling occurs when the thread has a diameter greater than 3.2 mm, this should
be considered a satisfactory endpoint, provided the soil has been previously rolled to a
3.2 mm (1/8 in.) thread.
13. Crumbling of the thread will manifest itself differently with various types of soil.
Some soils fall apart into numerous small aggregations of particles. Others may form
an outside tubular layer that starts splitting at both ends. The splitting progress toward
the middle, and finally the thread falls apart in many small platy particles.
14. Fat clay soils require much pressure to deform the thread, particularly as they
approach the plastic limit. With these soils, the thread breaks into a series of barrel
shaped segments about 3.2–9.5 mm (1/8–3/8 in.) in length.
NOTE: The only requirement for continuing the test is that the sample can be reformed into
an ellipsoidal mass and rerolled.

Transportation Division 11 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

Observation Calculations:

S.no 1 2 3

Container weight (Wc) 28.78 30.73 31.38

Container + Wet soil ,W1 38.28 40.38 38.61

Container + dry soil ,W2 36.61 38.55 37.26

Weight of Water, W1-W2 1.67 1.83 1.35

Dry weight of soil ,W2-Wc 7.83 7.82 5.88

Water content (%) 21.33 23.40 22.96

Plastic limit 22.56%

Result:
The plastic limit of the soil was 22.56 %.
Applications: This testing method is used as an integral part of several engineering
classifications systems to characterize the fine-grained fractions of soils and to specify the
fine-grained fraction of construction materials. The liquid limit, plastic limit and plasticity
index of soils are also used extensively, either individually or together, with other soil
properties to correlate with engineering behavior such as compressibility, permeability,
compatibility and shrink-swell and shear strength
References:
AASHTO T 87, Dry Preparation of Disturbed Soil and Soil Aggregate
Samples for Test
AASHTO T 89, Determining the Liquid Limit of Soils
AASHTO T 265, Laboratory Determination of Moisture Content of Soils

Transportation Division 12 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

3. Standard Proctor Compaction Test

Objective: To determine the Optimum moisture content and maximum dry density of a soil
by standard proctor compaction test.
Background:
Compaction is the process of densification of soil mass by reducing air voids. The purpose of
laboratory compaction test is to determine the proper amount of water at which the weight of
the soil grains in a unit volume of the compacted is maximum, the amount of water is thus
called the Optimum Moisture Content (OMC). In the laboratory different values of moisture
contents and the resulting dry densities obtained after compaction are plotted both to
arithmetic scale, the former as abscissa and the latter as ordinate. The points thus obtained are
joined together as a curve. The maximum dry density and the corresponding OMC are read
from the curve.
For example

Figure 3.1: Graph between water content and dry density.

The standard equipment in a proctor test is shown below,

Figure 3.2: Standard Proctor test equipment

Transportation Division 13 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

The wet density of the compacted soil is calculated as below,

W 1−W 2
γt =
V
Where, w1 = Weight of mould with moist compacted soil.
w2 = Weight of empty mould.
V = Volume of mould.
The dry density of the soil shall be calculated as follows,
W 1−W 2
γd=
V
Where, γt = wet density of the compacted soil.
w = moisture content.
Apparatus required
a) Special:
 Proctor mould (capacity 1000.0 cc, internal diameter 100mm, and effective height
127.3 mm.
 Rammer for light compaction (2.6Kg, with free drop of 310 mm).
 Mould accessories including detachable base plate, removable Collar.
 I.S. sieve 4.75 mm.
b) General:
 Balance of capacity 10 kg, and sensitivity of 1 gm.
 Balance of capacity 200 grams and sensitivity of 0.01 gm.
 Drying oven.
 Desiccators. v. Containers for water content.
 Graduated Jar.
 Trimming knife.
 Large mixing tray.
Procedure
1. Oven dry soil was used for performing the test.
2. Take about 3 kg of the soil sample which passed through 4.75 mm sieve.
3. Add 8 % water to the soil and thoroughly mix it.
4. Clean and grease gently the inside surface of the mould, and the base plate.
5. Take the weight of empty mould with the base plate.
6. Fir the collar and place the mould on a solid base.
7. Compact soil in five layers. Place first batch of soil inside the mould and apply 25
blows of Standard rammer, each given 25 blows of the standard rammer weighing 2.6
Kg and having a drop of 310 mm.
8. Remove the collar, and trim of the excess soil with trimming knife. Clean the mould,
and weight the mould with the compacted soil and the base plate.
Transportation Division 14 PMEL Lab.
NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

9. Take a representative sample (50 grams) from the mould and determine its water
content.
10. Repeat the above procedure for water content values of 10%, 12%, 14% and 16%.
11. Draw graph between water content and dry density.
12. Find optimum moisture content which maximize the density of the soil.
Precautions
1. Adequate period is allowed to mature the soil after it is mixed with water.
2. The rammer blows should be uniformly distributed over the surface with spatula
before next layer is placed.
3. To avoid stratification each compacted layer should be scratched with spatula before
next layer is placed.
4. At the end of compaction test, the soil should not penetrate more than 5mm into the
collar.
Observations and calculations
1. Diameter of mould, D (cm):
2. Height of mould, h (cm):
3. Volume of mould, V (cc): 1000 cc

Samples
Description
1 2 3 4 5

W1 (Weight of Mould) 4243 4243 4243 4243 4243

Volume of Mould (cc) 1000

W2 (weight of water) 240 60 60 60 60

W3 (weight of Mould + Soil) 6117 6236 6315 6493 6407

Wc (weight of empty container) 29 31 31 21 11

W4 (Wc + wet Soil) 79 81 81 71 61

W5 (Wc + wry Soil) 75.1 75.45 75 63.65 53.04

W6 (Weight of soil) (W3-W1) 1874 1993 2072 2250 2164

Bulk density γ g/cc

1.874 1.993 2.072 2.25 2.164
(W6/Vmould)

Water Content %
8.46 12.49 13.64 17.23 18.93
(W5-W4/W6-Wc)

Dry Density g/cc 1.73 1.77 1.82 1.92 1.82

(Bulk density/(1+W/C))

Transportation Division 15 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

γd = γ / (1 + w), (gm/cc)

1.95
OMC 17.2 %
1.9
Dry Density (g/sqcm)

1.85
1.8
1.75
1.7
1.65
1.6
7 9 11 13 15 17 19 21
Water Content %

Figure 3.1: Graph between water content and dry density.

Results and discussions
 The Optimum Moisture Content of the given soil sample is 17.2 %
 The maximum dry density of the given soil sample is 1.92 gm/cc.
 The graph is drawn for dry density versus water content and the optimum moisture
content is obtained.
Applications
Compaction of soil increases the density, shear strength, bearing capacity, thus reducing the
voids, settlement and permeability. The results of this are useful in the stability of field
problems like earthen dams, embankments, roads and airfield. In such compacted in the field
is controlled by the value of the OMC determined by laboratory compaction test. The
compaction energy to be given by a compaction unit is also controlled by the maximum dry
density determined in the laboratory. In other words, the laboratory compaction tests results
are used to write the compaction specification for field compaction of the soil.
References
1. IHS, Industry Standards & Regulations. (2010).
2. Davis, Tim (2008). Geotechnical Testing, Observation, and Documentation.
2nd edition. Reston, Virginia: American Society of Civil Engineers, 25-26.
3. Day, Robert W. (2001). Soil Testing Manual: Procedures, Classification Data,
and Sampling Practices. New York: McGraw Hill, Inc.. pp. 293–312.

Transportation Division 16 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

4. UNCONFINED COMPRESSION TEST

Objective: Determine shear parameters of cohesive soil
Apparatus:
 Loading frame of capacity of 2 t, with constant rate of movement. What is the least
count of the dial gauge attached to the proving ring.
 Proving ring of 0.01 kg sensitivity for soft soils; 0.05 kg for stiff soils.
 Soil trimmer.
 Frictionless end plates of 75 mm diameter (Perspex plate with silicon grease coating).
 Evaporating dish (Aluminium container).
 Soil sample of 75 mm length.
 Dial gauge (0.01 mm accuracy).
 Balance of capacity 200 g and sensitivity to weigh 0.01 g.
 Oven thermostatically controlled with interior of non-corroding material to maintain
the temperature at the desired level. What is the range of the temperature used for
drying the soil
 Sample extractor and split sampler.
 Dial gauge (sensitivity 0.01mm).
 Scale.
Procedure (Sample): In this test, a cylinder of soil without lateral support is tested to failure
in simple compression, at a constant rate of strain. The compressive load per unit area
required to fail the specimen as called unconfined compressive strength of the soil.
Preparation of specimen for testing
1. Undisturbed specimen
 Note down the sample number; bore whole number and the depth at which the
sample was taken.
 Remove the protective cover (paraffin wax) from the sampling tube.
 Place the sampling tube extractor and push the plunger till a small length of
sample moves out.
 Trim the projected sample using a wire saw.
 Again push the plunger of the extractor till a 75 mm long sample comes out.

Transportation Division 17 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

 Cut out this sample carefully and hold it on the split sampler so that it does not
fall.
 Take about 10 to 15 g of soil from the tube for water content determination.
 Note the container number and take the net weight of the sample and the
container.
 Measure the diameter at the top, middle, and the bottom of the sample and find
the average and record the same.
 Measure the length of the sample and record.
 Find the weight of the sample and record.
1. Moulded sample
 For the desired water content and the dry density, calculate the weight of the
dry soil Ws required for preparing a specimen of 3.8 cm diameter and 7.5 cm long
 Add required quantity of water Ww to this soil.
Ww = WS * W/100 gm
 Mix the soil thoroughly with water.
 Place the wet soil in a tight thick polythene bag in a humidity chamber and
place the soil in a constant volume mould, having an internal height of 7.5 cm and
internal diameter of 3.8 cm.
 After 24 hours take the soil from the humidity chamber and place the soil in a
constant volume mould, having an internal height of 7.5 cm and internal diameter of
3.8 cm.
 Place the lubricated moulded with plungers in position in the load frame.
 Apply the compressive load till the specimen is compacted to a height of 7.5
cm.
 Eject the specimen from the constant volume mould.
 Record the correct height, weight and diameter of the specimen.
Test procedure:
 Take two frictionless bearing plates of 75 mm diameter.
 Place the specimen on the base plate of the load frame (sandwiched between the end
plates).
 Place a hardened steel ball on the bearing plate.
 Adjust the centre line of the specimen such that the proving ring and the steel ball are
in the same line.

Transportation Division 18 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

 Fix a dial gauge to measure the vertical compression of the specimen.

 Adjust the gear position on the load frame to give suitable vertical displacement.
 Start applying the load and record the readings of the proving ring dial and
compression dial for every 5 mm compression.
 Continue loading till failure is complete.
 Draw the sketch of the failure pattern in the specimen.
Observation and Tables:
Moisture content = 17.2%
Size of the specimen = 200*100
Providing ring calibration factor = 2.1
Deformation dial,1 division = 5 mm
Cross sectional area = 3061.5
Initial area, Ao = 78.5 cm2
Initial length, lo = 195 mm
Strain, e = 0.97

Elapse Provin Axle

Compressive Penetration compressive
d time, g ring load P, Δ e=Δ/L A
dial readings value strength
sec reading kg
0 0 9 0 0 0.09 0.000 78.54 0.000
5 0 21 0 0 0.21 0.001 78.58 0.000
10 0 30 0 0 0.3 0.002 78.62 0.000
15 0 41 0 0 0.41 0.002 78.67 0.000
20 0 53 0 0 0.53 0.003 78.71 0.000
25 0 69 0 0 0.69 0.004 78.78 0.000
30 0 81 0 0 0.81 0.004 78.83 0.000
35 0 90 0 0 0.9 0.005 78.86 0.000
40 0.05 101 0.25 0.53 1.01 0.005 78.91 0.007
45 0.05 119 0.25 0.53 1.19 0.006 78.98 0.007
50 0.05 130 0.25 0.53 1.3 0.007 79.03 0.007
55 0.075 141 0.375 0.79 1.41 0.007 79.07 0.010
60 0.1 156 0.5 1.05 1.56 0.008 79.13 0.013
65 0.15 169 0.75 1.58 1.69 0.009 79.19 0.020
70 0.15 179 0.75 1.58 1.79 0.009 79.23 0.020
75 0.2 190 1 2.10 1.9 0.010 79.27 0.026
80 0.25 200 1.25 2.63 2 0.010 79.31 0.033
85 0.3 213 1.5 3.15 2.13 0.011 79.37 0.040
90 0.35 225 1.75 3.68 2.25 0.012 79.42 0.046

Transportation Division 19 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

95 0.7 239 3.5 7.35 2.39 0.012 79.47 0.092

100 0.75 250 3.75 7.88 2.5 0.013 79.52 0.099
105 1 263 5 10.50 2.63 0.013 79.57 0.132
110 1.025 276 5.125 10.76 2.76 0.014 79.63 0.135
115 1.05 288 5.25 11.03 2.88 0.015 79.68 0.138
120 1.1 299 5.5 11.55 2.99 0.015 79.72 0.145
125 1.125 310 5.625 11.81 3.1 0.016 79.77 0.148
130 1.15 323 5.75 12.08 3.23 0.017 79.82 0.151
135 1.175 335 5.875 12.34 3.35 0.017 79.87 0.154
140 1.2 346 6 12.60 3.46 0.018 79.92 0.158
145 1.225 362 6.125 12.86 3.62 0.019 79.98 0.161
150 1 373 5 10.50 3.73 0.019 80.03 0.131
155 1.25 386 6.25 13.13 3.86 0.020 80.09 0.164
160 1.275 398 6.375 13.39 3.98 0.020 80.14 0.167
165 1.3 413 6.5 13.65 4.13 0.021 80.20 0.170
170 1.325 424 6.625 13.91 4.24 0.022 80.24 0.173
175 1.35 436 6.75 14.18 4.36 0.022 80.30 0.177
180 1.4 450 7 14.70 4.5 0.023 80.35 0.183
185 1.425 468 7.125 14.96 4.68 0.024 80.43 0.186
190 1.475 476 7.375 15.49 4.76 0.024 80.46 0.192
195 2 489 10 21.00 4.89 0.025 80.52 0.261
200 2.025 500 10.125 21.26 5 0.026 80.57 0.264
205 2.05 514 10.25 21.53 5.14 0.026 80.63 0.267
210 2.075 524 10.375 21.79 5.24 0.027 80.67 0.270
215 2.1 535 10.5 22.05 5.35 0.027 80.71 0.273
220 2.125 546 10.625 22.31 5.46 0.028 80.76 0.276
225 2.15 562 10.75 22.58 5.62 0.029 80.83 0.279
230 2.16 574 10.8 22.68 5.74 0.029 80.88 0.280
235 2.175 586 10.875 22.84 5.86 0.030 80.93 0.282
240 2.18 599 10.9 22.89 5.99 0.031 80.99 0.283
245 2.2 611 11 23.10 6.11 0.031 81.04 0.285
250 2.225 621 11.125 23.36 6.21 0.032 81.08 0.288
255 2.25 649 11.25 23.63 6.49 0.033 81.20 0.291
260 2.275 660 11.375 23.89 6.6 0.034 81.25 0.294
265 2.28 672 11.4 23.94 6.72 0.034 81.30 0.294
270 2.325 689 11.625 24.41 6.89 0.035 81.38 0.300
275 2.35 700 11.75 24.68 7 0.036 81.42 0.303
280 2.375 713 11.875 24.94 7.13 0.037 81.48 0.306
285 2.4 726 12 25.20 7.26 0.037 81.54 0.309
290 2.45 736 12.25 25.73 7.36 0.038 81.58 0.315
295 2.475 762 12.375 25.99 7.62 0.039 81.69 0.318
300 3 775 15 31.50 7.75 0.040 81.75 0.385
305 3.01 789 15.05 31.61 7.89 0.040 81.81 0.386

Transportation Division 20 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

310 3.025 799 15.125 31.76 7.99 0.041 81.85 0.388

315 3.075 813 15.375 32.29 8.13 0.042 81.92 0.394
320 3.1 826 15.5 32.55 8.26 0.042 81.97 0.397
325 3.1 836 15.5 32.55 8.36 0.043 82.02 0.397
330 3.12 845 15.6 32.76 8.45 0.043 82.06 0.399
335 3.15 861 15.75 33.08 8.61 0.044 82.13 0.403
340 3.175 872 15.875 33.34 8.72 0.045 82.17 0.406
345 3.2 886 16 33.60 8.86 0.045 82.24 0.409
350 3.2 898 16 33.60 8.98 0.046 82.29 0.408
355 3.201 910 16.005 33.61 9.1 0.047 82.34 0.408
360 3.225 934 16.125 33.86 9.34 0.048 82.45 0.411
365 3.25 945 16.25 34.13 9.45 0.048 82.50 0.414
370 3.25 958 16.25 34.13 9.58 0.049 82.56 0.413
375 3.25 975 16.25 34.13 9.75 0.050 82.63 0.413

0.5 Stress- Strain curve

0.4
Compressive Stress(kg/cm^2)

0.4
0.3
0.3
0.2
0.2
0.1
0.1
0.0
0.010 0.015 0.020 0.025 0.030 0.035 0.040 0.045 0.050
Strain

Figure 4.1: Stress Vs Strain profile of soil sample

Results:
The compressive strength of the soil sample is 40.61 Kpa
Applications:
 The primary purpose of the unconfined compression test is to quickly obtain a
measure of compressive strength for those soils that possess sufficient cohesion to
permit testing in the unconfined state.
  If tests on the same sample in both its intact and remoulded states are performed, the
sensitivity of the material can be determined. This method of determining sensitivity
is suitable only for soils that can retain a stable specimen shape in the remoulded state

Transportation Division 21 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

References:
 ASTM D2166 - 06 Standard Test Method for Unconfined Compressive Strength of
Cohesive Soil
 Indian Standard Methods of Test for Soils, Part-10, Determination of Unconfined
Compressive Strength, IS: 2720 (part 10), 1991.

5. California Bearing Ratio Test

Objective: To determine CBR of given soil sample

Apparatus: Loading machine, Cylindrical mould, Spacer disk, Compaction rammer, Metal
weights, Test sieve size of 19 mm and 4.75 mm, Weighing balances, Tray, Mixing bowl,
Filter paper, Moisture content containers, Displacer disk

Procedure:

 Amount of oven dry soil required to prepare a sample is determined with the help of
maximum dry density.
 Water is added to soil as per optimum moisture content.
 For preparation of specimen by IS light compaction the moist soil sample taken in the
tray is divided into three equal parts.
 The CBR mould is fixed to the plate using the stay rods, wing nuts and washers.
 The spacer disk is placed at the bottom of the mould over the base plate and a filter
paper is placed over the spacer disk.
 The collar is placed at on the top of the mould, which provides an extension of 50 mm
above the top of the CBR mould.
 Now the soil is compacted in three layers with each layer being compacted by 55 well
distributed blows of light rammer of 2.6 kg weight.
 After placing entire wet soil in CBR mould with collar, the top surface is leveled.
 The mould with the specimen is clamped over the base plate and the same numbers of
surcharge weights are placed on the specimen centrally such that the penetration test
could be conducted.
 The mould with the base plate is placed under the penetration plunger of the loading
machine.
 The penetration plunger is seated at the centre of the specimen and is bought in
contact with the top surface of soil sample by applying a seating load of 4 kg.
Transportation Division 22 PMEL Lab.
NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

 The dial gauge for measuring the penetration values of the plunger is fitted in position
and the penetration dial gauge is set to zero.
 The dial gauge of the proving ring for load readings is also set to zero.
 The load is applied through the penetration plunger of the motorized loading machine
at a uniform rate of 1.25 mm/ min.
 The load readings are recorded at every 0.5 mm penetration readings and converted
into load in kg.
 In case the load readings start decreasing before 12.5 mm penetration, the maximum
load value and the corresponding penetration values are recorded.
 After the final reading, the load is released and the load is removed from the loading
machine.
 About 50 g of soil is collected form top, middle and bottom for the determination of
moisture content.

Observations and Calculations:

Type of CBR test sample: Remolded

Method of compaction of Remolded sample: Static compaction

Compacting moisture content, %=17.2%

Dry density =1.919 gm/cc

Transportation Division 23 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

Condition of test specimen: Unsoaked

Observed Proving
Penetration, Load on Unit load,
s.no dial ring dial
mm Plunger ,Kg kg/cm2
readings reading

1 0 0 0 0 0
2 0.5 1 5 10.5 0.53
3 1 1.2 6 12.6 0.64
4 1.5 3.1 15.5 32.55 1.66
5 2 3.3 16.5 34.65 1.76
6 2.5 4 20 42 2.14
7 3 4.2 21 44.1 2.25
8 4 5.1 25.5 53.55 2.73
9 5 5.4 27 56.7 2.89
10 7.5 7.2 36 75.6 3.85
11 10 8.4 42 88.2 4.49
12 12.5 10.1 50.5 106.05 5.40
Unit load at 2.5 mm penetration, kg/cm2 = 2.14

Unit load at 5 mm penetration, kg/cm2 = 2.89

CBR value (at 2.5 mm), % = 3.057

CBR value (at 5 mm), % = 2.752

Transportation Division 24 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

Load-penetration curve
120
110
100
90
Load dial readings, Divisons

80
70
60 Load-penetration curve
50
40
30
20
10
0
0

10

11

12
Penetration, mm

Figure 5.1: Penetration Vs Load diagram

Result: CBR of the Soil Sample is 3.06 %

Applications:

 Based on extensive CBR test data collected, empirical design charts were developed
by California State Highway Department, correlating the CBR value and flexible
pavement thickness requirement. Later on similar design curves were developed /
prepared by other states in the USA and other organizations / agencies in several other
countries.
 The Indian Roads Congress (IRC) has standardized the guidelines for the design of
flexible pavements on CBR test (vide IRC: 37-2001) and this method is being
followed for the design of flexible pavements for all the categories of roads in India.
 For low volume village roads / rural roads, separate design specifications and charts
are made available by the IRC.

Transportation Division 25 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: Akula Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

Precautions:

 Clean the holes of the base plate and that of perforated disc thoroughly.
 Align the surcharge weight with the plunger so that the plunger penetrates freely in to
the soil.

References:

 Bureau of Indian Standards, Indian Standard Methods of Test for Soils, Part 16,
Laboratory Determination of CBR, IS: 2720 (Part 16) – 1987 Reaffirmed 1997.
 Bureau of Indian Standards, Indian Standard Specification for CBR Moulds and its
Accessories, IS: 9669 – 1980 (Reaffirmed 1997).
 Indian Roads Congress, Guidelines for the Design of Flexible Pavements, (Second
Revision), IRC: 37-2001.
 Road Research Laboratory, Soil Mechanics for Road Engineers, DSIR, HMSO
publication, London.
 Highway Engineering, S.K. Khanna and C.E.G. Justo, Nem Chand & Bros; Roorkee
 Yoder, E.j., Principles of Pavement Design, John Wi.

Transportation Division 26 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
TEST ON AGGREGATES
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

1. AGGREGATE IMPACT TEST

Objective: To determine the aggregate impact value of coarse aggregate
Apparatus:

 Impact testing machine, the machine consists of a metal base with a plane lower
surface supported well on a firm floor. A detachable cylindrical cup, a metal hammer
capable of sliding freely between vertical guides, and fall concentric over the cup.
There is an arrangement for raising the hammer and allowing it to fall freely between
vertical guides from a height of 38 cm in the test sample cup. A key is provided for
supporting the hammer while fastening or removing the cup.
 A cylindrical measure.
 Tamping rod.
 IS sieves of 12.5 mm, 10 mm and 2.36 mm size.
 Balance, oven, rubber mallet, metal tray and brush etc.

Figure 1.1: Impact hammer

Procedure:

 The test sample consists of aggregates passing 12.5 mm and retained on 10 mm sieve.
Wash the sample and dry at 100 to 110oC for 4 hours and cool to room temperature.
 Measure the empty weight of cylindrical measure (M1).

Transportation Division 27 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

 Fill the cylindrical measure by the aggregate sample in 3 equal layers, each layer
being given 25 tamping. Struck off the aggregate sample by tamping rod weigh and
record the mass of sample (M2).
 Place the impact testing machine with its bottom plate flat on the floor so that hammer
guides are vertical, fix the cup firmly in its position on the base of the machine and
transfer the entire sample in the cup.
 Raise the hammer (380 mm height of fall) and allow it to fall freely on the aggregates.
The sample is subjected to a total of 15 such blows, each being delivered at an
interval of not less than one second.
 Remove the crushed aggregate from the cup and sieve from 2.36 mm sieve. The
fraction passing the sieve is weighed (M3). The fraction retained on the sieve is also
weighed (M4). If M3+M4 differ M2-M1 by more than 1 gm. Discard the results and
repeat the test.

Observations and Calculations:

The aggregate impact value is expressed as the percentage of the fines formed in terms of
total weight of the sample.

Table 1.1: Aggregate impact value

  Sample 1 Sample 2
Weight of aggregate + Weight of
1591 1586
cylindrical measure (W1), (gm)

Weight of cylindrical measure (W2), (gm) 1246 1246

Weight of aggregates (W1-W2), (gm) 345 340

Weight of aggregate retained on 2.36 mm

272 270
sieve (W4), (gm)
Weight of aggregates passing 2.36 mm
73 70
sieve (W5), (gm)

100∗W 5 100∗73
Aggregate impact value (AIV1) = = = 21.16 %
W 1−W 2 345

100∗W 5 100∗70
Aggregate impact value (AIV2) = = = 20.59%
W 1−W 2 340

Average Aggregate Impact value = 20.88 %

Transportation Division 28 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

Results: Aggregate impact value is 20.88%, so according to the toughness property it is

represent as good for pavement surface course.
Conclusion:
As per IRC the type of aggregate is only used for wear course as it not suitable for any other
layers like sub-base and base.
Applications:

 The aggregate impact test is considered to be an important test to assess the suitability
of aggregates as regards the toughness for use in pavement construction. It has been
found that for majority of aggregates, the aggregate crushing and aggregate impact
values are numerically similar within close limits. But in case of fine-grained highly
siliceous aggregate which are less resistant to impact than to crushing, the aggregate
impact values are higher than the aggregate crushing values.
 Various agencies have specified the maximum permissible aggregate impact values
for the different types of pavements; those recommended by the Indian Road
Congress are shown above. For deciding the suitability of soft aggregates in base
course construction, this test has been commonly used. A modified impact test is also
often carried out in the case of soft aggregates to find the wet impact value after
soaking the test sample.
Precautions:

 The machine shall be rigidly fixed to the floor with guide columns vertical.
 Before giving hammer blows check whether the metal cup is tightly bolted to the
machine.
 The blows should preferably be given @ 1 per sec.
 After impact, remove the crushed aggregate carefully using a stiff bristle brush.

References:

 Aggregate Impact Value (IS:2386-Part IV-1963)

 Millard, R.S. (1993). Road building in the Tropics. Transport Research Laboratory
State-of-the-art Review 9, HMSO, London

Transportation Division 29 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

2. SHAPE TEST

Objective: To determine the combined flakiness and elongation index of the given
aggregates
Apparatus:

 Weigh balance
 Metal Gauges: Thickness gauges and Length gauge.

Fig 11.3.1 Thickness gauge

Transportation Division 30 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

Fig 11.3.2 Length gauge

 Sieves – ISSieves of sizes of sizes 63 mm, 50 mm, 40 mm, 31.5 mm, 25 mm, 20
mm, 16 mm, 12.5 mm, 10 mm, and 6.3 mm.

Theory:

The particle shape of aggregate is determined by the percentages of flaky and elongated
particles. In the construction of bituminous and cement concrete types, the presence of flaky
and the elongated particles are considered undesirable as they may cause inherent weakness
with possibilities of breaking down under heavy loads.

The flakiness index of an aggregate is the percentage by weight of particles in it whose least
dimension (thickness) is less than three-fifth of their mean dimension.

The elongation index of an aggregate is the percentage by weight of particles whose greatest
dimension (length) is greater than one and four-fifths times their mean dimension.

Procedure:

Flakiness Index:

 The sieves are arranged such that the largest size sieve (63mm) is at the top and the
smallest size sieve (6.3mm) is at the bottom.
 The given aggregates are sieved and weight of each fraction to be tested is taken.
 In order to separate flaky aggregate, each fraction is then gauged for thickness
through the respective opening on the thickness gauge.
 The flaky aggregate passing the respective opening are collected and accurately
weighed. The aggregate which didn’t pass is used for elongation index.
 The procedure is repeated for other fractions having weighs W2, W3 etc. the flaky
aggregate in them having weights w2,w3 respectively.
 Flakiness Index = (w1+w2+w3+…………) x100 / (W1+W2+W3+…….) percent
= 100 w/W percent

Elongation Index:

 Aggregates which didn’t pass from respective gauge was

 Take the entire fraction separately; gauge them one by one through the corresponding
slot provided in the gauge. Keep the particles retained by the length separately. The
aim should be to retain as much as possible to avoid testing bias.

Transportation Division 31 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

 Weigh the particles retained on length gauge.

 Elongation index is the total weight of the material retained on the various length
gauges, expressed as a percentage of the total weight of the sample gauged.
 Each piece of these are tried to be passed through the specified gauge length of 58.5
mm with its longest side and which do not pass the gauge are separated and the total
weight determined = X1g. Similarly the weight of each fraction of aggregate passing
and retained on specified sieve sizes are found, W 1, W2, W3,……. And the total
weight of sample determined = W1+W2+W3+……..=W g. Also the weights of
material from each fraction retained on the specified gauge length are found = X 1, X2,
X3 and the total weight retained determined = X1+X2+X3+……= X g.
 The elongation index is the total weight of the material retained on the various length
gauges, expressed as a percentage of the total weight of the sample gauged.
 Elongation Index = (X1+X2+X3+……………) x100/ W1+W2+W3+……………

= 100x(X/W) percent

Observations and Calculations:

Table 2.1 Flakiness and Elongation indices

Weight of Weight of
aggregate in aggregates in
IS sieve, mm Weight of Thickness
each each fraction
aggregate gauge size,
fraction retained on
retained (g) (mm)
passing the the gauge,
gauge, (w)g (X)g
Passing Retained
63 50 0 0 0 -
50 40 0 0 0 -
40 31.5 0 0 0 -
31.5 25 0 0 0 -
25 20 2742 13.5 120 479
20 16 1465 10.8 116 187
16 12.5 795 8.55 76 234
12.5 10 412 6.75 50 145
10 6.3 134 4.89 20 41
Sum 5548 Sum=W Sum=382 Sum=1086

Flakiness Index = (382/5548)*100 = 6.88 %

Transportation Division 32 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

Elongation Index =X/ (T-W)*100 = 1086/ (5548-382)*100 = 21.02 %

Combined Flakiness and Elongation Index= 6.88 +21.02 = 27.90 %

Conclusions:

As per MORTH has the maximum permissible value of combined Flakiness and Elongation
index of Coarse aggregate as 30%. So the aggregates given can used for wet mix Mecadam
base course, dense bituminous Mecadam binder course, semi-dense bituminous concrete
surface course and bituminous concrete surface course of highway pavements.

References:

 Flakiness and Elongation index test (shape test) IS 2386- part-1

 Pavement materials: Aggregates- nptel_ceTEI_L22
 http://theconstructor.org/transportation/shape-tests/1397/

Transportation Division 33 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

3. STRIPING VALUE OF ROAD AGGREGATES

Objective: To determine the stripping value of aggregates used in road construction. And
ascertain the suitability of road aggregates for bituminous road construction.

Apparatus: Thermostatically controlled water bath, Beakers of capacity 500 ml

Theory:

 This test is conducted to determine the effects of moisture upon the adhesion of the
bituminous film to the surface particles of the aggregate. This test is of significant
value to ascertain the suitability of the two materials.
 They are bitumen (binder) and aggregates, because one particular aggregate may be
satisfactory with one binder and unsatisfactory with another and the same being true
for the binders.
 Several laboratory tests have been developed to arbitrarily determine the adhesion of
bituminous binder to an aggregate in the presence of water these tests may be
classified as six types are Static immersion tests, Dynamic immersion test, Chemical
immersion test, Immersion mechanical tests, Immersion trafficking tests and Coating
tests.

Procedure:

The aggregate sample: The test sample consists of aggregate of size passing 25mm sieve
and retained on 12.5mm.

 Obtain the material that passes through 25mm sieve and is retained on 12.5mm sieve.
 Dry, clean and heat the binder and aggregates to 160ºC and 150ºC respectively and
mix with 5percent binder by weight of aggregate.
 After complete coating, allow the mixture to cool at room temperature in clean dry
beaker.
 Add distilled water to immerse the coated aggregates.
 Cover the beaker and keep it undisturbed in a thermostatic water bath at a
temperature of 40ºC for a period of 24 hours.
 Estimate the extent of stripping by visual examination while the specimen is still
under water and express as the average percent area of aggregate surface uncoated.

Transportation Division 34 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

Result: The striping value of aggregates is the ratio of uncovered area observed visually to
the total area of aggregates in test sample.

Type of aggregate = Natural aggregate

Type of binder = VG30

Percentage of binder = 1%

Total weight of aggregate = 500g

Total weight of binder = 5g

Temperature of water bath = 35 0C

Stripping aggregates = 16

Total area of aggregates = 84

Striping value = 19%

Conclusions:

 As per IRC specified the maximum stripping value as 25% for aggregate to be used in
bituminous construction like surface dressing, Bituminous macadam and bitumen
mastic, i.e. no need any anti stripping agents.
 But the maximum stripping value suggested by IRC is 10% for aggregates used in
open graded premix carpet, i.e. use of anti-stripping agent is recommended.

Reference:

 Bureau of Indian standards, Indian standard method for determination of striping

value of road aggregates, IS:6241-1971

Transportation Division 35 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

4. ANGULARITY NUMBER
Objective: Determination of the Angularity Number of the given Aggregate Sample.

Apparatus:

 Metal cylinder
 Tamping Rod
 Weighing Balance
 Sieves

Procedure:

 10 Kg of the Recycled sample is taken for the test (25 mm – 10mm). The material
should be oven dried.
 Measure the empty cylinder and taken as (W1).
 The aggregate is compacted in three layers, each layer being given 100 blows using
the standard tamping rod at a rate of 2 blows per second by lifting the rod 5 cm above
the surface of the aggregate and then allowing it to fall freely. The blows are
uniformly distributed over the surface of the aggregate.
 After compact the third layer, the cylinder is filled to overflowing and excess material
is removed off with temping rod as a straight edge.
 The aggregate with cylinder is then weighed say (W2).
 Three separate determinations are made and then the mean weight of the aggregate in
the cylinder is calculated.
 Then remove the aggregates and fill the cylinder with water and weight it , say (W3).

Calculations:

Angularity Number = 67-((100*W)/ C*G

Where W= Mean weight of aggregates in the cylinder (g)

C=Weight of water required to fill the cylinder (g)

G=Specific gravity of aggregates

Transportation Division 36 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

S.No Description Values

1 Weight of Empty Bucket (W1) 0.207
2 Weight of bucket + aggregates (W2) 8.907
3 Weight if bucket + Water (W3) 5.068
4 Mean weight of aggregates in the cylinder (W) 8.7
5 Weight of water required to fill the cylinder (C) 4.95
6 Specific gravity of aggregates (G) 2.82

Angularity Number = 67- ((100*8.907)/ (4.95*2.82))

= 1.173

Results:

Angularity Number = 1.173

Conclusions:

The Angularity Number should be in the range 0-11. The more the angularity number the
more angular be the aggregates. Since the calculated angularity number is around 1 so it can
be used as surface course.

Transportation Division 37 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
TEST ON BITUMEN
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

1. PENETRATION TEST

Objective: To determine the grade of a given binder.

Apparatus Used:

 container: 55mm in diameter and 35mm to 57mm height

 Needle: provided with a shank approximately 3.0mm in diameter into which it is
immovably fixed
 water bath
 penetrometer
 Stop watch etc.

Procedure:

 The bitumen is softened to a paving consistency between 75° and 100°C above the
approximate temperature at which bitumen softens.

 The sample material is thoroughly stirred to make it homogeneous and free from air
bubbles and water.
 The sample containers are cooled in atmosphere of temperature not lower than 13°C
for one hour. Then they are placed in temperature controlled water bath at a
temperature of 25°C for a period of one hour.
 The weight of needle, shaft and additional weight are checked. The total weight of
this assembly should be 100gm.
 Using the adjusting screw, the needle assembly is lowered and the tip of the needle is
made to just touch the top surface of the sample.
 The needle assembly is clamped in this position. The contact of the tip of the needle is
checked using the mirror placed on the rear of the needle.
 The initial reading of the penetrometer dial is either adjusted to zero or the initial
reading is noted.
 Then the needle is released by pressing a button and a stop watch is started. The
needle is released exactly for a period of 5.0 sec.
 At least 3 measurements are made on this sample by testing at distance of not less
than 100mm apart.

Transportation Division 38 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

 The difference between the initial and final penetration readings are taken as the
penetration value.

Observations:

Sample 1 sample 2
S.No Test 1 Test 2 Test 3 Mean value Test 1 Test 2 Test 3 Mean Value
penetration
4.2 3.6 3.8 3.8 3.5 3.1 3.8 3.5
value (mm)

Results:

Mean penetration value: 3.65 mm

Grade of bitumen: 30/40

Conclusion:

Based on the obtained value of generally the higher grade of bitumen binder with lower
penetration value is chosen in warm regions.

References:

 IS: 1203-1978, Indian Standards Method for testing Tar and Bituminous Materials :
Determination of Penetration ( First revision)
 Bureau of Indian Standards, IS: 73-2006, Indian Standard Paving Bitumen-
specification ( Third Revision)
 Highway materials and pavement testing lab manual.

2. ELASTIC RECOVERY TEST

Transportation Division 39 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

Objective: To assess the degree of bitumen modification by elastomeric additives.

Theory: The elastic recovery test is intended to assess the degree of bitumen modification by
elastomeric additives. This is a simple test conducted in a ductility testing machine to
optimize the dosage of polymeric additives in bitumen and also helps in assessing the quality
of the modified bitumen in the laboratory. The elastic recovery of the modified bitumen is
evaluated by comparing the recovery of a thread of modified bitumen after conditioning for
one hour at specified test temperature.
Apparatus:
 Ductility testing machine as per IS :1208
 The size and shape of the test specimen and mould are as shown in Figure. 2.1
 Thermometer
 Scissors
 Scale
Procedure: The sample is prepared and conditioned as per the procedure of the ductility test
but, in the elastic recovery mould. The test specimen is elongated at the specified rate of 50 +
2.5 mm per minute at the specified temperature to a deformation of 10 cm. As soon as the
specimen is elongated to a deformation of 10 cm, the specimen is cut into two halves at the
mid-point using scissors. The specimen is kept in the water bath in an undisturbed condition
for a period of one hour at the specified temperature. After one hour, the elongated half of the
specimen is moved back to the position near the fixed half of the test specimen, so that both
the pieces of the specimen just touch each other. The length of the recombined specimen is
measured as ‘D’ cm.
Observations and Calculations:
i. Type of the binder :
ii. Test temperature :15oC
Length of re-combined specimen, D =7 cm
(10−D) 10−7
Elastic recovery, % = ∗100 % = ∗100
10 10
= 30 %
Result:
The Elastic recovery of the test specimen is 30 %.

Transportation Division 40 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

Applications:
The elastic recovery test can be used to test the suitability of the modified bitumen for paving
applications. Modified bitumen with low elastic recovery value is generally found to crack.
As per the specifications of the Indian Roads Congress, the requirements of minimum elastic
recovery value for different modified binders are as follows:
Elastic recovery at 15o C, %
Type of Modified Bitumen
(minimum)
Elastomeric thermoplastic based polymer
75
modified bitumen
Plastomeric polymer modified bitumen 50
Natural rubber modified bitumen 30-50
Crumb rubber modified bitumen 30

Conclusion:
Based on the Elastic recovery at 15o C is around 30% i.e., it can defined as either natural
rubber modified bitumen or Crumb rubber modified bitumen.
References:
 IS: 1208-1978, Indian Standards Method for testing Tar and Bituminous Materials :
Determination of Ductility ( First revision)
 highways.gov.sk.ca/203-18

 Highway materials and pavement testing lab manual.

3. SOFTENING POINT TEST

Objective: To determine the softening point of the bitumen.

Transportation Division 41 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

Theory: All semi-solid state bitumen grades need sufficient fluidity before they are used for
application with the aggregate mix. For this purpose bitumen is sometimes cutback with a
solvent like kerosene. The common procedure however is to liquefy the bitumen by heating.
Softening point is the temperature point at which the bitumen becomes softening to use it to:
● Classify bitumen according to their susceptibility to heat.
● Classify bitumen according to their suitability to use in hot or cold regions.
● Check the uniformity of sources supplies.
● Indicate the tendency of bitumen to flow at elevated temperatures.
Ring and ball test is used for the determination of softening point. The apparatus and test
procedure are standardized by BIS. Harder grades of bitumen possess higher softening point
than softer grades. . It is also an indirect measure of viscosity or, rather, the temperature at
which a given viscosity is evident. The softening point value has particular significance for
materials which are to be used as thick films, such as joint and crack fillers and roofing
materials. A high softening point ensures that they will not flow in service. For a bitumen of a
given penetration (determined at 25 C), the higher the softening point the lower the
temperature sensitivity.

Apparatus:
1. Ring and Ball apparatus
a. Steel balls: Two steel balls each of diameter of 9.5 mm and weight 2.5 g ± 0.05 g
b. Brass rings: Two rings of depth 6.4 mm with inside top diameter 17.5 mm and bottom
diameter 15.9 mm
c. Support: The metallic support is used for placing pairs of rings
d. Water bath should be a heat resistant glass vessel not less than 85 mm in diameter and
120 mm in depth
e. Thermometer: capable of reading temperature up to 250C0
f. Bituminous materials
g. Stirrer: can be manual or mechanical to ensure uniform heat distribution at all times
throughout water bath

Transportation Division 42 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

Apparatus for the bitumen Softening Point Test

Procedure:
1. Sample material is heated to a temperature between 100 Co until it is completely fluid and
is poured in heated rings placed on a metal plate.
2. Solution of glycerine and dextrin can be coated to avoid the material sticking on to the
metal plate.
3. Fill the bitumen into rings.
4. Keep the filled rings to get cooled for 30 minutes, the excess bitumen is trimmed and rings
are placed in the support.
5. Assemble apparatuses with the rings and keep in the water – for 15 minutes, the
temperature is maintained 5 C.
6. After 15 minutes, place balls on the rings, and the temperature of water is raised at uniform
rate of 5 Co per minute until the bitumen softens and touches the bottom plate by sinking of
balls.

Transportation Division 43 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

6. At least two observations were made.

Precautions:
● The stirrer shall be so placed that the moulds are not disturbed when the stirrer is in
operation.
● The prescribed rate of heating shall be rigidly adhered for ensuring accuracy of results.
● The rate of temperature rise shall not be averaged over the period of the test.

Observations and Calculations:

i. Bitumen grade =
ii. Approximate softening point = (74+77)/2 = 75.5
iii. Liquid used in the bath = Water
iv. Period of air cooling, minutes = 30 minutes
v. Period of cooling in water bath, minutes =
vi. Temperature at the start of the test = 20oC
Test values observed:
Sample Sample
No. 1 No. 2 Mean value,
Test property
Softening point
Ball No. 1 Ball No. 2

Temperature (°C) at which

sample touches the bottom 74oC 77oC 75.5oC
plate

Repeatability 1.5oC 1.5oC 1.5oC

Reproducibility 5.5oC 5.5oC 5.5oC

Average of the temperatures of the two balls touching the bottom should be taken.

Results and Discussion:

The temperature at the instant when each of the ball and sample touches the bottom plate of
support is recorded as softening value. The mean of duplicate determinations is noted. It is
essential that the mean value of the softening point (temperature) does not differ from
individual observations by more than the following limits.

Softening Point Repeatability Reproducibility

40 °C to 60 °C 1.0 °C 5.5 °C

Transportation Division 44 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

61 °C to 80 °C 1.5 °C 5.5 °C

81 °C to 100 °C 2.0 °C 5.5 °C

1. The softening point is another important test of bitumen bind and is effecting by change
in temperature.
2. This test assures the engineer that the binder being test will have properties similar to this
of another binder that has already served successfully. Carefully control of testing
temperature and change in temperature must be 5C /minute and must be calibrated
before making the test until to get the resultant more accuracy.
3. The water must be distilled without air voids or salts because air bubble may assemblages
under the sample during heating.
4. Impurity in water or glycerin has been observed to affect the result considerably.
5. Increase in distance between the ring and bottom plate indicates higher value of softening
point.

Applications:
Softening point is essentially the temperature at which the bituminous binders have an equal
viscosity. The softening point of the tar is therefore related to the equi-viscous temperature
(e.v.t). The softening point found by the ring and ball apparatus is approximately 20C o lower
than e.v.t.
Softening point thus gives an idea of the temperature at which the bituminous material attains
a certain viscosity. Bitumen with higher softening point may be preferred in warmer place.
Softening point is also sometimes used to specify hard bitumen and pitches.
As per the Bureau of Indian Standards, the requirements of softening point for paving
bitumen are as follows:

Paving Method of
Property
Grades test

Softening
VG 10 VG 20 VG 30 VG 40
point °C

IS 1205-
40 45 47 50
1978

Transportation Division 45 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

References:
● IS: 1205-1978- softening point test (ring and ball apparatus)
● transportationengineering2012onwards.blogspot.com/.../rings-and-balls
● www.scribd.com/doc/133512372/Softening-Point-of-Bitumen

Transportation Division 46 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

4. DYNAMIC SHEAR RHEOMETER

Objective:

 To obtain the value of upper PG temperature of binder.

 To plot master curve at a reference temperature.

Apparatus: Dynamic shear rheometer

Theory:

The basic DSR test uses a thin asphalt binder sample sandwiched between two circular plates.
The lower plate is fixed while the upper plate oscillates back and forth across the sample at
10 rad/sec (1.59 Hz) to create a shearing action. DSR tests are conducted on un aged, RTFO
aged and PAV aged asphalt binder samples. The test is largely software controlled.

Asphalt binders are viscoelastic. This means they behave partly like an elastic solid
(deformation due to loading is recoverable – it is able to return to its original shape after a
load is removed) and partly like a viscous liquid (deformation due to loading is non-
recoverable – it cannot return to its original shape after a load is removed). Having been used
in the plastics industry for years, the DSR is capable of quantifying both elastic and viscous
properties. This makes it well suited for characterizing asphalt binders in the in-service
pavement temperature range.

The DSR measures a specimen’s complex shear modulus (G*) and phase angle (δ). The
complex shear modulus (G*) can be considered the sample’s total resistance to deformation
when repeatedly sheared, while the phase angle (δ), is the lag between the applied shear stress
and the resulting shear strain. The larger the phase angle (δ), the more viscous the material,
Phase angle (δ) limiting values are:

 Purely elastic material: δ = 0 degrees

 Purely viscous material: δ = 90 degrees

Procedure:

 Heat the asphalt binder from which the test specimens are to be selected until the
binder is sufficiently fluid to pour the test specimens 

Transportation Division 47 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

 Select the testing temperature according to the asphalt binder grade or testing
schedule. Heat the DSR to the test temperature. This preheats the upper and lower
plates, which allows the specimen to adhere to them.
 Place the asphalt binder sample between the test plates.
 Move the test plates together until the gap between them equals the test gap plus
0.002 inches (0.05 mm).
 Trim the specimen around the edge of the test plates using a heated trimming tool.
 Move the test plates together to the desired testing gap. This creates a slight bulge in
the asphalt binder specimen’s perimeter.
 Bring the specimen to the test temperature. Start the test only after the specimen has
been at the desired temperature for at least 10 minutes.
 The DSR software determines a target torque at which to rotate the upper plate based
on the material being tested (e.g., unaged binder, RTFO residue or PAV residue). This
torque is chosen to ensure that measurements are within the specimen’s region of
linear behaviour.
 The DSR conditions the specimen for 10 cycles at a frequency of 10 rad/sec (1.59
Hz).
 The DSR takes test measurements over the next 10 cycles and then the software
reduces the data to produce a value for complex modulus (G*) and phase angle (δ).

Figure 1: Dynamic Shear Rheometer

Transportation Division 48 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

6.5 Calculations and graphs:

T1=64
log(G*) (Pa)

T2=70
T3=76
T4=82
T5=88
T6=94
T7=100

2
0.25 2.5 25
log(f) (rad/sec)

Figure 2: Variation of G* vs frequency

500,000
log(G*/Sin(delta))

50,000 f(x) = 2.76E+18 x^-8.17

R² = 1

5,000

500
40 46 52 58 64 70 76 82 88 94

Temperature

Figure 3: Determination of upper PG temperature

Transportation Division 49 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal
 Name: A.Shyamsunder
Roll No.: 191703

4
3.5
3
Log( G* predicted) 2.5
2
1.5
1
0.5
0
-2 -1.5 -1 -0.5 0 0.5 1 1.5 2
Log (reduced frequency)

Figure 4: master curve

120,000
110,000
100,000
90,000
80,000
70,000
60,000
G*

50,000
40,000
30,000
20,000
10,000
0
72 74 76 78 80 82 84 86 88 90 92

Phase Angle

Figure 5: Black Diagram

Results:

1. A master curve of Binder using data covering a large range of temperatures.

2. The value of upper PG temperature is found to be 77.5
3. Frequency Range varies from 1 to 2675

Transportation Division 50 PMEL Lab.

NIT Warangal