MATERIAL TEST

 CONCRETE

 STEEL

 CEMENT

 AGGREGATE

 SAND

 BRICK

 SOIL

What are the points to be checked before buying a cement?/14 things to consider before buying a
cement bag.

Following are the 14 points that should be observed, before buying a cement bag.

1. Brand name :

While purchasing the cement, you should always go for the branded cement having good popularity (5
🌟). The branded cement may cost 5 to 15% more, in comparison to other local cement, but they are
worth that price as there is no compromise in their quality. Check for the correct spelling of the printed
brand name, to confirm the originality of cement bags.

2. Trademark/logo:

All type of branded cement has their unique trademark logo printed on the bag as shown above. Look
out for those logos to avoid duplication.

3. ISI mark:
If the cement bag has no ISI mark (India ) printed over them, then stand apart from such bags to have a
longer life span for your construction works. If the manufactured cement bags are not according to the
industrial standards compliance( ISI ), don't buy such bags to maintain the quality of construction works.

4. IS code :

While manufacturing the cement, different types of IS codes are followed to meet the required
standards. You should check for the type of IS code ( as shown above ), to know the specification &
cement characteristics.

5. Grade of cement:

Cement bags are manufactured in various grades like 33, 43, 53, etc. to denote the cement cube
strength after 28 days of curing. You should look out for the required grade, that suits your work, to get
better results.

6. Type of cement:

Different types of cement are manufactured, to match the type of structural work, working situation,
and climatic conditions. Check over the bag, to know the type of cement you are dealing with.

7. Net quantity/Weight of cement:

The most common weight of the cement bags that are available in the market is 50kg. You can check
over the bags mentioned as net Qty -50kg., for the confirmation of actual weight.

The white cement bags are packed in different weights like 1kg, 10kg, 25kg, 50kg, etc. for purchasers'
convenience. Calculating the weight vs price for each type of bag, before buying, helps you to save
money.
8. Company address:

You do require the manufacturer's address for communication, in case you have any complaints to
register against the dealer or the quality of supplied cement.

9. Use no hooks:

MS hooks are used by some workers while loading & unloading the cement bags for transportation.
Although using hooks make them work fast, these hooks create small openings in the cement bags. You
have to look for such openings if any, while buying the cement bags. These openings give a passage for
the air to circulate in the bags, which ultimately decreases the cement strength. Strictly avoid such bags,
to maintain the cement standards.

10. The expiry date:

Cement loses its original strength gradually as the day progresses from its production date. Any bags
older than 3 months from the manufactured date are unfit for the construction works. So, check the
manufactured week and month, to know the expiry date of cement. Always go for the fresh cement to
utilize its full specified strength.
11.The printed price (MRP ) :

Observing the MRP of the cement bag helps you to know, whether you are paying the right amount of
money or the delivered bags are overpriced.

12.Stitching of cement bag:

Refilling the cement by mixing with other components in the factory-made bags can be found out by
checking the bag stitchings. To avoid duplicate adulterated cement, check the cement bag stitchings
precisely. The restitched bags certainly look different, as they cannot mimic the original factory-made
stitching.

13. Authorized outlet:

Always, try to buy the cement from the authorized outlet in your locality, to avoid duplication and to get
a fresh stock of cement.

14. Lumps in the bag:

If the bags in the godowns are not stored according to the procedure, the cement in the bags may
develop tiny grain-like lumps due to the absorption of atmospheric moisture. Press the bag hardly and
pinch the corner end of the bags with your fingers, to feel the powdery softness of cement. If you feel
stiff bag with grainy feelings, avoid such bags.

Note:

1. The printed location over the cement bags are not alike, & they are unique to each brand. For your
observation, the MRP & manufactured date of the cement bags of two different companies are shown in
checklists no. 10. & 11.

Field test for good quality of cement

field test for good quality of cement/field test for cement/cement tests/different site test for cement

Following are some field tests, that should be carried out to know the quality of cement.

1. Date of packing:

It should be within 3 months at the time of purchase.

2. Lumps test:

It should be free from any lumps which might be formed due to the atmospheric moisture.

3. Colour test:

Cement should be of uniform grey color, with a light green shade.

4. Float test:

When little quantity of cement is poured into a bucket of water, some part of it should float on water for
a few seconds, forming pockets before sinking.

5. Setting test:

A thick paste of cement should be applied evenly over the piece of a glass. After an initial setting time of
30 minutes, it should be kept in water for 24 hours. Next day, when you test the cement, it should be
hard in a single piece, if it breaks into several pieces then the cement is not of good quality.

6. Adulteration test:

When cement is rubbed between two fingers, you should get the smooth feeling of fine powders. If you
feel the rough grainy texture, then there is a possibility of adulteration.

7. Temperature test:

When kept over the palm, you should feel the normal atmospheric heat. It should not be much warmer.
What is the Soundness of Cement & Methods of Determining Soundness of Cement

What is the Soundness of Cement?

The soundness of cement can be defined as its ability to retain its volume after it gets hardened. This
means that a properly sound cement will have hardened paste’s ability to retain its volume after setting.

A cement is referred to as unsound, lacking soundness when subjected to delayed destructive

expansion.

Unsoundness of cement is due to the presence of an excessive amount of hard-burned free lime or
magnesia.

The soundness of cement indicates quality to expand on the setting. Unsound cement expands too
much on setting and develops cracks in the structure.

The test used for determining the soundness of cement is known as the “Le chatelier apparatus test.”

By soundness of cement, it is understood that its capacity to form a non-disintegrating, hard uniformly
strong mass on the setting.

Soundness of Cement Test Methods

The cement after setting must not undergo any appreciable change of volume. Certain types of cement
have undergone a large expansion immediately after settling, disrupting the hardened mass and set. This
will cause major difficulties for the durability of structures if such type of cement is used.

On the other hand, the unsoundness in cement is due to an excess of free lime combined with acidic-
oxide at the kiln. This is also likely that too high a proportion of magnesium content of calcium sulfate
content may lead to cement unsoundness.

The soundness of cement can be determined by two methods:

The autoclave method and

The Le-Chatelier method.

In the soundness test, a specimen of hardened cement paste is boiled for a fixed time so that any
tendency to expand is speeded up and can be detected. Soundness means the ability to resist volume
expansion.

Soundness test of cement determining

How to check quality of Bricks on site

Bricks are building blocks of a structure. Brick is most extensively used materials of the building
construction.

As an Engineer, you must know how to check the quality of bricks on site. A good quality of brick should
be chemically inert that means it won’t show any reaction when it mixed with any material.

Tests are very important to make sure that you are using the right material for the construction. Hence,
a field test of bricks gives an idea about its size, shape and colour at first observation.

how to check the quality of bricks on site and what are the qualities of a good brick.

THE FOLLOWING TESTS ARE

1. Water absorption test

2. Size colour and shape

3. Dimension

4. Hardness

5. Soundness

6. Structure

7. Efflorescence test

COLOUR TEST
1. The good quality brick will have a bright and uniform colour throughout its body.

2. A good quality of bricks should be well burnt and have a colour of rich red or Copper colour,
any other colour other than above resembles that brick is under burnt or over-burnt. If
bricks are over or under-burnt, then it loses it shape.

3. It should be in deep red or copper-like color. Black or clay-like color indicates the brick of
low quality.

SHAPE AND SIZE TEST

1. All bricks should be the same. Take 20 bricks at random and make a stack of them to
check.

2. You want to make sure the bricks are all the same for construction purpose.

3. Size of brick is uniform does not bulk in any sides. More bulk need more mortar so the
cost of construction is exceed actual cost.

4. Edges of bricks should be sharp.

 5. A brick needs to be wide enough (but not too wide) to hold comfortably in one hand. The
other hand holds the trowel (for laying mortar).

6. Brick should be uniform in size it shouldn’t have any bulks on edges.

7. More the bulking in brick needs more mortar. It ultimately increases the cost of a
building. A good brick should be sharp at edges.

8. A good quality of bricks should have an accurate dimension whereas +/- 3 tolerance is
allowed for first class and +,- 8 % tolerance for second and third class bricks.

HARDNESS TEST

1. Use a fingernail or a sharp tool to try and scratch the surface of the brick. If the brick is
unscratched, it's a good quality brick.

2. In this test, scratches are made on the surface of the brick using a hard metal. If there is
no impression left on the surface then it is considered as good quality brick.

3. Best quality of brick should resist the scratches against sharp things. Scratch the brick
using your fingernail or sharp tool. A good brick should not show any impression or
scratch of a fingernail on the brick.

4. When we scratch the brick with our fingernail, it should not leave any impressions. Such
bricks are considered as good quality clay bricks.

CLAP TEST / SOUNDNESS TEST

 1. When the two bricks are striking against each other, it should produce a clear and ringing
sound without crack

2. This determines the reaction of bricks against sudden impact.

3. Take two bricks one in each hand and stuck it each other a good brick hears a metallic
sound or ringing sound. If brick breaks without sound then it isn’t suitable for
construction.

DROP TEST / IMPACT TEST

1. Take a brick and drop it above the hard floor from 1.2 m to 1.5 m height. The brick
should not break into pieces to ensure its good quality.

2. If the bricks are broken it means low impact value and therefore not good for
construction.
EFFLORESCENCE TEST

1. If sodium and potassium salts are presence in the brick this will cause white patches on the
brick surface that is called efflorescence.

2. Brick production soil should be free from sulphate, potassium and sodium . When bricks
are contact to water this sale dissolved and this will cause major defects on plastering
surface. So this bricks are not allowed for construction.

3. Efflorescence is a salt deposit seen on the surface of bricks. Usually, it’s in white. This can be
visually inspected by checking white patches on the bricks surface, White patches on bricks
resemble presence of sodium and potassium salts on it which is not suitable for
construction.

4. Soils used in the manufacturing of bricks should free from sulphate, potassium and sodium.
If brick contains such harmful salts then will get dissolved when bricks come into contact
with water.

5. When bricks contain such harmful salts as used exposed surface then serious surface
disruption occur which may harm outer plastering. This phenomenon is called
efflorescence.

Efflorescence test:

The test must be conducted in a well ventilated room. The bricks are fully immersed in fresh
water for a duration of 24 hours. After the completion of 24 hours they are collected from
water and left them to dry. After the bricks are completely dried they are closely observed to
find the presence of alkali. The alkali is present in the brick only when a white or gray layer is
formed on the brick surface.
For general construction of bricks it should not have more than slight to moderate
efflorescence.

As per IS 3495 – 1992. To check the presence of efflorescence following procedure is adopted

1.Take a flat tray and fill it with a 2.5cm height of distilled water.

2.Treat five bricks as a test specimen and place these bricks vertically one after other. On a tray
containing distilled water. Now wait until the water is absorbed by bricks

3.Again fill the water up to same height 2.5cm and allow it to absorb water as above (Second
evaporation)

4.Now after second evaporation, examine the brick for efflorescence as below:

STRUCTURE TEST

Break the randomly selected brick in half and check if its homogeneous and free from any
lumps, holes or defects.
Structure test:

A brick is broken and is firmly investigated. If there is any flaws, holes or lumps inside the brick
it is considered as a poor quality brick whereas if the brick is homogeneous and compact inside
it indicates that the bricks are in good quality.

Homogeneity:-

Break the brick and examine it. A good quality brick should be homogeneous, compact and with
zero lumps.

ABSORPTION TEST

WATER ABSORPTION TEST

For the proposer of find out the water absorption test. Taken for five procurement bricks . Then
weight it in dry condition and the average dry weight is calculated.

Then immerse this five bricks into water for 24 hours. After 24 hours taken it out and weight it
again in wet condition and calculate the average weight of five bricks.

The difference between average weights of the of wet bricks to the dry brick Indicate the water
absorption of brick . The water absorption does not exceed 20 % of weight of dry brick .

If the brick tend to absorb more water than its limits. it will cause decrease the strength of
mortar because the brick absorb water from mortar.

The absorption of first-class brick water should be less than 20%, otherwise, it will absorb water
from the motor.

This will help you understand the amount of moisture absorbed in extreme conditions.
A good brick should absorb less than 20% of water when it is immersed in water for 24hrs. If
the brick absorbs more than the allowable limit. It absorbs water from cement mortar during its
bonding. This eventually affects the brick bonding strength.

Water Absorption:

In this test, the bricks are taken and weighed first in dry condition(W1) and then they are
immersed in water for a period of 24hours. After 24hours of immersion, the bricks are weighed
again in wet condition(W2). The difference of weight between dry and wet condition is
considered as the water absorbed by the bricks. Later, the amount of water absorption is
determined in percentage.

Water absorption(%) = [(W2-W1)/W1]*100

The less consumption of water by the bricks indicates the greater quality. If bricks does not
consume more than 20% water of its own weight then it will be considered as a good quality.

Examine frog in brick:

Check the size of the frog and it should be 100mm x 40mm x 10mm. Any other lesser size of
frog leads to improper motor filling and requires more amount of mortar if the frog dimensions
are more than above which makes structure uneconomical.

2. Crushing Strength or Compressive Strength Test on Bricks

Crushing strength of bricks is determined by placing brick in compression testing machine. After
placing the brick in compression testing machine, apply load on it until brick breaks. Note down
the value of failure load and find out the crushing strength value of brick. Minimum crushing
strength of brick is 3.50N/mm2.if it is less than 3.50 N/mm2, then it is not useful for
construction purpose.

Field test for good quality of burnt clay bricks.

Now let us see the different types of field tests to find out the good quality of burnt clay bricks.
1. Shapes and sizes:

It should have sharp edges with uniform shape and size. The maximum allowance at both ends should
be ±3 mm.

2. Colour test:

It should be in deep red or copper-like color. Black or clay-like color indicates the brick of low quality.

3. Sound test:

When two bricks were stuck with each other it should give a clear metallic sound.

4. Hardness test:

When we scratch the brick with our fingernail, it should not leave any impressions. Such bricks are
considered as good quality clay bricks.

5. Drop test:

When dropped from about a height of 1.2 mt. to 1.5 mt., the brick should not break into pieces to
ensure its good quality.

Field test for the solid concrete blocks

Solid concrete block Fig. 1.

You can check the quality of the solid concrete blocks on site by following some simple methods
as given below.

1. Drop test
Randomly select one block from the total no. of blocks of the particular batch. Lift the block at
about 4 to 4.5 feet which is nearer to your chest level and drop it on the hard ground surface.

Vertical drop: The length of the block should be kept in a vertical position before dropping it on
the ground. The concrete block should be intact in shape without any damage after crushing
over the ground surface. If the sample block breaks into pieces or develops a crack then it is
better to reject such concrete blocks.

Horizontal drop: You have to hold the concrete block with the length of the block in the
horizontal position as shown in fig. 2. From the same chest height, you again drop the block on
the hard surface. If the block breaks into no. of pieces, then such blocks can be considered as
low-quality blocks.

The horizontal dropping of concrete block. Fig. 2.

2. Corner test

Press the corner of the block with your thumbnail on all the eight sides one by one as shown in
fig. 3. If it gives out or if some particles are broken from the edge, then you can classify such
blocks as of low quality.

Pressing the corner of the concrete block. Fig. 3.

3. Chisel test
This is a comparative test for the two or more sample blocks collected from the different
production units to recognize the manufacturer, who delivers the best quality of blocks.

Cut the groove into the solid concrete blocks, horizontally running on all the four sides of equal
depth by using chisels as shown in fig. 4. It should be cut at the center of the block until the
block separates into two pieces. In this test, you will find the quality of the blocks by the three
actions.

Hardness: If it is harder to chisel the block and if it takes more time for cutting out in
comparison to all other sample blocks, then it gives you a hint that the blocks of that particular
batch are of good quality.

Groove depth: Measure the depth of the cutting at the time of separation of the block. If the
depth of the groove is more in comparison, then that block can be considered as of good
quality.

Breakage: If the block breaks into several pieces at this process, then it is better to drop that
batch of the block from your list.

Chisel test for the block. Fig. 4.

4. Nail test

This is also a comparative test similar to the chisel test. You have to hammer a nail into the
sample blocks on three or more points. This action will provide you with the following data for
the block selection.

Resistance: If the block resists the insertion of the nail and if it is harder to hammer a nail then
you can position that block above all other different samples which exhibit low resistance.

Grip: If the block provides a good grip to the nail by restricting its movement, it is also an
indicator of the block quality.

5. Texture
The blocks should have a grainy surface texture which you can observe in the fig. 1. If the
concrete block has a smooth texture finish then it indicates the more quarry dust content in its
mix proportion.

The dust weakens the concrete strength which in turn results in a block production of low
compressive strength.

6. Shape & size

The block should have a uniform shape with sharp edges. The difference in the dimensions on
the two similar sides at both the end should not be more than ±3 mm. (allowance).

Sand

Sand is the main part of construction. Sand used for plastering, concreting, brick work and stone
masonry.

Sand is one of the main constituent of mortar and concrete, in concrete purpose of mixing of sand is to
fill the voids between course aggregates. And in between voids of sand is filled with cement.

Sand is known as fine aggregate. Sand is formed buy the action of weather on the rocks. Many types of
sands are used in construction field . They are river sand, Sea sand and pit sand . But cement mortar and
concrete works mostly river sand is used.

The size of aggregate live between 75 microns to 4.75 mm is called fine aggregate ( sand) .

If the quality of sand is not good then the quality of work is not satisfied. Because sand is major part of
concrete and mortar, so it affects work quality.

A good quality generally has particle size between 150 microns to 4.75 mm is sieve size and if the
particle size in sand is less than this size, it is known as silt in sand. If silt content in sand exceed more
than 8% which may result in reduction in bonding capacity of mix materials, also affect strength and
durability of final product.

PROPERTIES OF GOOD SAND

1. . It should be clean and coarse.

2. It should be free from any organic or vegetable matter; usually 3-4 per cent clay is permitted.

3. . It should be chemically inert.

4. . It should contain sharp, angular, coarse and durable grains.

5. It should not contain salts which attract moisture from the atmosphere.
 6. . It should be well graded, i.e., it should contain particles of various sizes in suitable proportions.

7. • It should be strong and durable.

8. • It should be clean and free from coatings of clay and silt.

The sand or say blended sand is characterized by

1. . Grain Size

2. • Grain Shape

3. Surface smoothness

4. • Density

5. . Contaminants

6. . Moisture content

7. . Clay content

8. • Compactibility

How to check the silt content of loaded sand truck (or in sand depot) in one minute./ Instant test for
silt content in sand.

When we dump the sand on the site, we do different types of field tests to check the content of silt in
the sand. But once the sand is purchased from the supplier, it becomes difficult to send them back as
the supplier may not agree to do so. So how about checking the silt content in the loaded sand truck
before purchasing and dumping them on the site?

The following are the different methods by which you can check the silt content within a minute or two.

1. Clay balls:
 Clay balls found in sand.

The clay or silt has the tendency to create lumps due to its cohesive nature. So, check out for any
clay/silt lumps in the sand loaded truck at every edge and corner of the truck. If no lumps are found,
then you can proceed with the next test.

Organic balls found in sand.

You may also find some black colored spongy type lumps in the sand. They are organic materials that
come along with sand.

2. Rubbing in palm :

Take a sample of sand in your hand and add a little water if they are dry. Rub them in between your two
palms for 5 to 7 seconds vigorously. Place back the sand in the truck and observe your palm. If the silt
content is above the specified limit, then you will find them sticking to your palm as shown in fig. below.

silt stuck to the palm.

If the sand has limited or no silt present in it, you will find the sand grains on your palm as shown in the
fig. below.
 no silt on the rubbed palm.

3. Making sand balls :

Take a sample of sand and add water to make them slightly wet ( if dry). Squeeze them in your hand and
try to make a ball out of them. If you are succeeded in making round balls, then don't look back at that
material.

sand making ball.

The silt, clay, or organic impurities present in the sand helps to make such balls in sand. If the shape of
the ball is more stiff and firm, then we can conclude that the sand has more silt content in it.

If the sand does not stick to each other by breaking apart, then you can consider buying that sand.

sand crumbles making no-ball.

4. Watercolor:

Add water to the sand sample taken in your palm and squeeze the sand in between your palm applying
pressure.

sand having silt.

If the water oozes out with thick yellow or muddy color, you can say the sand contains silt or impurities
in it and if the water drops out with pale yellow or transparent watercolor, then you can consider buying
that sand.

sand having limited silt.

Checking by all these four methods will give you a good picture of approximate silt content in that
particular sand, and helps you to make your decision in purchasing that sand.

On the sand depot, you can do this as a comparative test for different types of dumped sand and choose
the best one out of it.

Note; These tests are not the replacement for the field test and lab. test for the sand. You can say them
as pre speed test before buying sand as the decision should be taken in lesser time.

After trial and error and getting some experience, you will learn to judge accurately the amount of silt
present in the sand by following these methods.
How to check quality of sand at site.

Below I will provide some simple tests instead of laboratories test. because we don’t have much time
and equipment at site. The following main tests are perform quickly at site to find the quality of sand.

1.Clay content test

2.Organic impurities test

3.Silt test

4.Salt test

5.Earth matters.

1. CLAY TEST.

The presence of clay in sand is to affect the actual compressive strength of concrete. The presence of
clay in sand is finding out by doing below simple test at site.

Take a glass bottle fill some amount of sand then add some quantity of water. Then shake it 10
times and allow some times to settle. If the clay is present in sand. It will form layer at the water
surface. So the quality of sand is not good.

In second method take some amount of wet sand in your hand then drop it. If the presence of
clay in sands it make cohesion in your hand.

2. PRESENCE OF ORGANIC IMPURITIES IN SAND.

To find the presence of organic impurities in sand . Take some amount sand and add it to sodiyem
hudroxide.then shake the solution for 1 minute. If the colour is change to brown. It indicate the
presence of organic impurities in sand.
Why We Measure the Silt Content from the Sand?

Silt content is a fine material that’s less than 150 microns. It’s unstable in the presence of
water. It’s unstable in the presence of water. If we utilize silty sand for bonding, it will reduce
the strength and cause rework.

You could be experienced this while plastering for a roof where the mason tries to plaster the
mortar where it gets continually peel off.

The excessive quantity of silt, not only reduces the bonding of fine and concrete aggregates but
also affects the strength and durability of work.

You may check out this article for silt and clay properties. In the field, we have to conduct a silt
test for every 20 Cum of sand. This may vary.

Why we do the Silt content test for sand?

Silt content is a fine material that is less than 150 μm. It is unstable in the presence of water.
These are the bad bonding agent, silt didn’t make a good bond with cement and reduce the
strength of structure.

This causes the plaster peeling and masonry bonding to decrease. It’s very important to test the
silt content in sand.

Testing for silt content in Sand

Fine aggregate or Sand is one of the most important construction materials on any construction
site. It should be selected very carefully as it contributes to the strength of various important
mixtures such as concrete, ointments, and mortars.

Sand ought to be tested for the presence of soil, silt, moisture, and other harmful materials
(salts, coal, mica) that can affect the strength of a structure and cause avoidable reorientation.
 Silt of Clay

Fine quality construction and has a particle size ranging from about 150 μm to 4.75 mm. This
causes smaller particles to be classified as silt.

The presence of high salt content (> 8%) in the SandSand reduces the bonding capacity of the
raw material and affects the strength and durability of the work. Silt content testing is
recommended for every 20 m3 of Sand.

Induction of Silt Content

The sand caused to a building site or other works may contain an amount of moisture, which
will cause it, when loosely filled to a container, to occupy a large volume than it would occupy if
dry.

If the sand is measured by loose volume, it’s necessary in such a case to increase the measured
volume of the sand, so that the amount of sand put to the concrete might be the amount
intended for the nominal mix used (based on dry sand).
 Silt Content

It’ll be necessary to increase the volume of sand from the ‘percentage’ bulking. The correction
to be made is only a rough approximation since the system of measurement by loose volume is
a rough method at best.

However, the correction of the right order can easily be determined and must be applied in
order to keep the concrete uniform.

What is the maximum permissible limit of silt in sand?

The maximum permissible limit of silt in sand is 8% according to I.S. code. If percentage of silt
comes under 8%, sand is acceptable and it is use in construction of any structures.

If percentage of silt in sand is more than permissible limit 8%. We never accept this types of
cement at construction site. We find silt content in sand at site within 3 to 4 hours only.

Sand silt content test determine by the help of hand in just few seconds.

By the help of this test we only find silt present in sand or not. We take sand in our hand and
start rubbing of sand in hands by the help of ours finger. After 15 to 20 second we fall all sand
from the hand.

We notice following sign after rubbing sand in palm by the help of fingers.

 Palm of hand is clear, its show silt content in sand is not available.

 If palm is little muddy type, it shows the sign of silt present in sand at little quantity.
  If palm is more muddy type, it shows the sign of silt present in sand at larger quantity.

Note: – We do sand silt content test quick by the help of hand. If we feel silt content in sand is
more. We do sand silt test by the help of measuring jar, water and sand.

Silt content test of sand do each and every batch load after 20 cum of sand.

Determination of clay and fine silt content in fine aggregate (settling method)

Procedure of silt content test of sand

Objective

To determine silt content in sand

Apparatus require for testing

 Graduated measuring cylindrical jar

 Water

 Salt

 Sand

 Fine aggregate shall be tested in the condition in which is received

 Solution Required

Salt Solution: 10 g common salt in 1 litre of water to provide a nominal 1%.

Object

• A measuring cylinder (250 ml)

250-ml-measuring-cylinder-500x500

• Water

• Sand

APPARATUS

1. Measuring cylinder 250 ml 2. Rubber hammer 3. Spatula 4. Stirring rod

MATERIAL 1. Water 2. Sand 3. Salt

PROCEDURE

1. The cylinder was filled up to about 50 ml of salt water solution. (one tablespoon salt to 1 litre of
water)

2. The sand was poured into the cylinder until the level of water reaches 100 ml.

3. More salt water was added until it reaches 150 ml.

4. The cylinders were shakes well.

5. The cylinders were placed on a levelled surface.

6. After 2 hours, the results were recorded.

7. The silt layer was measured on top of the sand. The thickness can be explained as a percentage of
sand level below the layer. The sand considered as clean if the percentage is not more than 8% of the
original volume of the sand.

 The measuring cylinder is filled with the salt-water solution (concentration of the
solution will teaspoon full of common salt for every 570 ml) up to the 50 ml mark on the
cylinder.

 Add sand until the level of the sand is reached up to the 100 ml mark.

 Add further salt-water solution till the 150 ml mark is reached.

 Place the palm on the mouth of the glass cylinder and shake it vigorously.

 Place the measuring cylinder on a hard leveled surface and tap it all round so that sand is
leveled.

 Wait for three hours for the silt to settle on top of the sand.

 Measure the thickness of the silt layer and the height of the sand.

Procedure of sand silt test

 First of all, we fill graduate measuring cylindrical jar up to 50ml with 1% solution of salt
and water.

 Now add extra sand in measuring jar until 100ml of reading of jar touch by water.

 After that we add 50ml of sand and water solution in measuring jar. Now new reading of
measuring jar comes out 150ml.

 Close open end of Graduated measuring cylindrical jar by the help of hand,

 We shaking up and down vigorously without stopping 15 to 20 seconds.

 After shaking of Graduated measuring cylindrical jar we level sand in horizontal position
to take correct reading.

 We left Graduated measuring cylindrical jar up to 3 to 4 hours to settle down of silt and
sand.
  Sand settle within minutes but silt takes more time to settle down.

PROCEDURE

Fill 1% solution of common salt and water in the measuring cylinder up to 50 ml mark.

Now add sand to be tested to this solution till the level of the salt solution shows 100 ml mark.

Top up the level of salt solution up to 150 ml mark.

Shake the mixture of sand and salt solution well and keep it undisturbed for about 3 hours.

The silt being of finer particles than sand, will settle above the sand in a form of layer.

Measure the thickness of this silt layer.

Note V1 is reading in volume of silt content in Graduated measuring cylindrical jar.

Note V2 is reading in volume of sand in Graduated measuring cylindrical jar.

We do this sand silt content test do at least three times and take theirs average.

Percentage of silt content in sand is = (V1/V2) *100.

Where, V1 is volume of silt present in sand.

V2 is volume of sand

For example, if the volume of silt comes out V1 is 6. And volume of sand comes V2 is 120.

Percentage of silt in sand is (6/120) *100 =5% which is less than maximum permissible limit of
silt in sand 8%.

Hence, sand sample is ok to use in construction work.

The Test Procedure

 First, a 50 ml solution of 1% salt and water is prepared in the measuring cylinder. The
addition of salt increases the silt disposal time.

 The sample of Sand to be tested is then added to the cylinder until the level reaches 100
ml.

 50 mL of salt and water solution is again added to the measuring cylinder.

  Close the open end of the measuring cylinder and shake it well.

 Shake the mixture vigorously until adherent particles have been dispersed. Place the
measuring cylinder on a level surface, and gently tap it until the surface of the aggregate
is level

 After a period of 3-4 hours, you will see a layer of silt settled on the Sand.

 Now pay attention to the volume V1 of the silt layer settled on the Sand.

 Note the volume V2 of the settled Sand.

 Repeat the process a few times to get the average.

Measurement Cylindrical Jar

Percentage of Silt Content = (V1/V2) x 100

V1 – Volume of the silt layer

V2 – Volume of the sand layer

For example, for a given sand sample, if V1 comes out to be 9 and V2 is 130, the % silt content
would be 6.9 %.
The permissible value of silt content in Sand is 8%. Hence the sand sample is ok and can be used
for construction purposes.

Observation table

Report/Observation Table

S.NO DESCRIPTION SAMPLE NO

SAMPLE 1 SAMPLE 2 SAMPLE 3

1 Volume of Sample (V1) ml

2 Volume of Silt (V2) ml

3 Percentage of Silt (V2/V1) x 100

Average
3. SILT CONTENT TEST
Take a glass bottle add some amount of sand and add some amount of water as well as salt into the
bottle. Then shake it sometimes after shaking then allow it to settle at least 10 hours. If the silt is present
in sand it will form a layers above the sand layer.

A good quality generally has particle size between 150 microns to 4.75 mm is sieve size and if the
particle size in sand is less than this size, it is known as silt in sand. If silt content in sand exceed more
than 8% which may result in reduction in bonding capacity of mix materials, also affect strength and
durability of final product.

Silt content in sand (%) = [(Thickness of silt layer / Height of sand + Silt) x 100%]

If silt content is exceeding 3% by weight, then the washing of sand is necessary. After performing a few
tests, a co-relation can be developed for silt layer thicknesses at various intervals of time. The silt
content after a time interval of 10 minutes can be fixed as inspection criteria.

Sample Calculation:

If the following observations taken from silt content of sand test,

Silt Layer Thickness = 1 cm

Sand + Silt Layer Height or Thickness = 10 cm

Silt Content of Sand = (1 cm / 10 cm) x 100 %

Silt Content of Sand = 1%

So, from above Test and calculations we can say that this sand has 1% silt content.

Silt content limit in sand as per IS code is 8%, so this sand we can use for construction purpose.

4.SALT TEST
This is simple and easy method to check the presence of salt in sand.Take small amount of sand in your
hand and taste it . If the presence of salt in sand it will make salty taste.

5.EARTHY MATTERS.

Almost earthy matters are present in sand. It is the common issue. To check the presence of earthy
matters in sand at site we mainly prepare following physical test.

Take partially sand in your one hand and rub it with in your other hand. Then leave the sand from your
hand. If the light marks are appear in your hand it indicate the presence of earthy matters ( sand ) .

Sand Moisture Content Test – Procedure and Result

Sand moisture content Test is one of the important tests of sand. Moisture present in sand affects the
water-cement ratio in the concrete mix.

Generally, moisture in form of thin layers attached to the sand particle, and because of the particle size
of the sand particle is lesser it attracts more moisture from the atmosphere compared to coarse
aggregate.

Excessive moisture content in the sand may result in extra water in a water-cement ratio of concrete
which affects the strength and durability of concrete
Sand Moisture Content Test:

AIM:

To determine the surface moisture of moist or wet aggregate.

APPARATUS:

A metal tray or frying pan

Gas stove or an electric hairdryer

Scales to measure

Procedure for Sand Moisture Content Test:

1) For coarse aggregate, a 2 kg sample is required but for the sand (fine aggregate), a 0.5 kg sample is
adequate.

2) The wet/moist sample is then weighted as wet weight (W).

3) After that heat the sand very gently on the metal plate or frying pan and stirred with a glass or
metallic rod to maintain uniform distribution of heat, until the moisture sheen disappears from the
surface.

4) Then the surface of fine aggregates becomes dry when it just starts showing free-flowing
characteristics. Take the weight of this oven-dried sample as (Wd).

6) Overheating must be avoided, as it will not give the correct surface moisture.

Sample Calculation:

Wet or Moist Sand Sample Weight = W = 500 gm

Oven Sand Sample Weight = 400 gm

Surface Moisture Content of Sand Sample = (500 – 400) / 500 ) x 100 %

= 20 %
Result:

From above calculation we can say that the sand sample is having 20 % of moisture content by weight.

Checking the cleanliness of the sand

5. The sand should be free from silt, clay and organic materials.

6. A simple test to check the cleanliness of the sand is as follows:

(a) Obtain a clear, wide-mouthed glass jar.

(b) Fill the bottom of the jar with sand 5 cm deep.

(c) Add clean water until the jar is three-quarters full.

(d) Add, if available, two teaspoons of common table salt per litre of water.

(e) Close the jar and shake it vigorously for one minute.

(f) Let it stand for three hours.

(g) Check the sand surface. If there is silt present, it will form a layer on top of the sand.

(h) If there are more than 3 mm of silt, the sand must be washed.

. .
7. Another simple test to check the cleanliness of sand is as follows:

(a) Take a handful of sand and squeeze it.

(b) Throw it away.

(c) It your hand is clean and free of sticky dust, the sand is clean.

(d) If your hand is dirty and sticky, the sand is dirty.

Washing the sand

8. If there is too much silt, you will have to wash the sand before using it. Repeat the following
procedure until all your sand is clean.

(a) Put sand in a large, clean container such as a 200-litre metal drum.
(b) Cover the sand with clean, fresh water.

(c) Stir vigorously.

(d) Let it stand for a few minutes.

(e) Pour off the dirty water.

(f) Repeat until the water remains clear.

(g) Store the clean sand, so as to keep it from being recontaminated.

9. You can store clean sand on the construction site, for example on a timber floor with low side walls as
shown below.

Check quality of sand

01. Rub the sample of the sand with wet palms. Good clean sand will not stick to the hand, whereas
sand with clay will stick and change the colour of the palm. Such sand contains clay and silt particle. You
need to test it for “silt content” on site.

02. Take a glass of water and add some quantity of sand and stir the mix. Now allow the mix to settle
and observe it after an hour. Clean sand will settle immediately but if it forms the distinct top layer of silt
than sand contains silt or clay particles. The thickness of the silt layer should not exceed the thickness of
the sand layer by 8%. If it contains more than 8%, the sand should be washed with clear water. The
diameter of glass should be uniform throughout height.

03. To find organic impurities in the sand, you should repeat the above procedure and add caustic soda
(salt) in the glass of water. If the water changes the colour to brown, then there must be some organic
impurities. Such sand should not be used.

04. You should taste a pinch of sand and if it tastes salty, the salt must be present in sand and hence it
should not be used at all in any construction. Such sand is naturally from the river but either it is sea
sand or from an area of river frequently affected by tidal water near the sea.

05. The size of particles and sharpness of sand (fine aggregates) is checked by visualization. Sand should
be free from organic impurities (like shell, shingle, and other impurities) or they should be in limits which
are easily identified by visualization.

06. The above are basically field tests. To finally approve it there are certain laboratory tests like
Fineness Modulus and Silt Content by Weight which also needs to be done. Such laboratory tests are
recommended for large projects.
Bulking of Sand Test – Procedure & Result

Bulking of Sand occurs when sand comes in contact with moisture, which forms a thin layer of water
around the sand particle and this thin layer of water exert an outward force on each other which cause
the sand particle to move away from each other and ultimately increase the volume of sand. This
phenomenon of the increasing volume of sand due to moisture in the sand called “Bulking of Sand”

Excessive moisture or bulking affects the water-cement ratio and ultimately reduces the strength and
durability of concrete.

As per IS 2386-3 if the sand contents 4% moisture, then it will increase sand volume by 25%.

Bulked sand consumes more volume & hence if volumetric measuring is done while proportioning for
concrete, bulking correction is necessary.

Bulking of Sand

Bulking is depends on sand particles size. As the smaller the particle size of sand, the volume of bulking
increases. Generally, Medium and coarse sand have lower bulking of sand.

High bulking result in low quality concrete mix and ultimately reduce strength of concrete.

Principle of Bulking of Sand Test:

Bulking of the sand test depends on the fact that the dry volume of sand and saturated volume of sand
has almost the same volume.
Therefore in this test sand filled in a container and water is added to it up to its saturation point. As the
sand saturated in water its volume reduced and shows the actual volume of sand or dry volume of sand.

By measuring the difference between the ed volume of sand and saturated volume of sand we can
calculate the bulking of sand value.

The bulking test of sand is done as follows:

The sand is filled, in the loose condition in a box of measured height (H) in cm.

The box is then filled with water and rodding is done to make the sand settle and consolidate.

Care should be taken that the sand does not overflow during the flooding and compaction.

The sand is then leveled in the box and the drop in height is measured (h) in cm.

Bulking of sand is calculated as,

Bulking of Sand in % = h/H x 100%

Dry sand occupies the same volumes as fully saturated sand. The bulking may differ from load to load
and day to day depending on the surface moisture content and fineness of sand.

Therefore, it becomes essential to make bulking corrections by checking the actual bulking of sand
proposed to be used by volumetric batching for mortar or concrete.

Sample Calculation:

H = 10 cm (Height of Bulked Sand in Container)

h= 2 cm (Height Difference of Saturated Sand & Bulked Sand in Container)

Bulking of Sand (%) = (h/H) x 100

= (2 / 10) x 100

= 20 %

Sieve Analysis Test of Sand – Procedure & Result

29/12/2020

Sieve Analysis Test of Sand is done to check the gradation of sand particles. Sand particle distribution in
sand volume is important for good quality concrete and mortar.

In this test, the sand sample is passed through a series of IS sieve sizes ordered from bigger to a smaller
size at the bottom. A sand particle having respective size retained on a sieve and then the weight of sand
retained on each IS Sieve taken.

Then % of sand retained on each IS Sieve is calculated which shows the particle size distribution in the
sand sample.

Aim:

To determine the Particle Size Distribution of Sand Sample.

Apparatus for Sieve Analysis Test:

Sieves as per IS standards (sieve 10mm, 4.75mm, 2.36mm, 1.18mm, 600µ, 300µ, 150µ)

Mechanical sieve shaker

Dry oven

Weighing scale
 Sieve Analysis of Sand

Test Procedure:

1) Take the required amount of aggregate sample (for a sand (fine aggregate) minimum of 0.5kg sample
is required.

2) Arrange the required no of sieves as per the contract or job requirement in a descending manner. (i.e.
keep the sieve having the largest size opening at the top and the smallest size opening at the bottom)

Sieve Arrangement – At Top 10mm , 4.75mm, 2.36mm, 1.18mm, 600µ, 300µ, 150µ at Bottom and Last
Pan)

IS Sieve for Sieve Analysis of Sand

3) Place the sieve set on the mechanical shaker and shake vigorously for at least 2 minutes.

4) Then measure the weight of aggregate retained on each sieve and express it as the percentage of
passing.

5) Now compare these values with the recommendation values to know whether it falls within the range
or not. If not comes within the desired gradation, then take the necessary action to make sand well
graded.

6) The grading limit of sand (fine aggregate) is given below.

What are the points to be checked before buying TMT bars?/ Check list to
purchase steel bars for construction.
Following are the 11 points, that should be observed before buying a TMT bar, without doing
any tests over the bars.

1. Brand :
Always go for the top brand while buying the TMT bars from the market. They may cost 5 to
10% more when compared to the other locally manufactured steel bars. My suggestion is, don't
compromise in quality to save a little money in your budget.

Some of the top brands in India are 1. Tata steel. 2. JSW steel. 3. Jindal steel. 4. ESSAR steel
etc.

2. Grade of steel :

As you can observe in the above drawing, you will find the grade of steel embossed over the
bars. Select the right one, to suit the design of your structure.

3. Bar diameter:

Check the diameter of the bars to purchase the right amount of steel bars of needed size &
weight. You will find the diameter on every bar, as shown in the above drawing.

4. Type of bar:

Different types of bars are available in the market having different mechanical & chemical
properties. Among them, TMT bars are the widely used ones, in the construction of residential
buildings.

Note: Go through the article Different types of steel bars used in construction. to understand
the rebar classification.

5. Surface ribs:

The ribs over the rebars should be uniform & clear, placed at an equidistant from each other (as
shown above). These ribs play a major role in developing a good bond strength with the
concrete to provide the required stability to the structure.

6. Rusted rebar:
The fresh rebars are grey in color. When the steel bars are exposed to atmospheric moisture for
a longer duration, they get rusted due to oxidation. As you can observe in the above image, the
rusted bar turned orange-brown in color.

At any cost, you should not buy the rusted bars. They create a decreased bond strength & affect
the life span of the structure.

7. Rebar test certificate:

When you deal with the trader, ask for the rebar test certificate to know the specification &
strength of the bar of different diameters. All the branded manufacturers have these test
certificates, to maintain the standard & quality of rebars.

8. ISI mark:
The Industrial Standards Compliance ( ISI ) is set for the steel bars to ensure quality while
manufacturing them. Check for the ISI mark before buying the bars.

9. National certification :

While manufacturing the steel bars, different types of codes or standard certifications are
followed to meet the required properties & specifications of rebars.

The general codes or certifications that are used are IS 1786, IS 432 (MS ), ASTM A706, BS 449,
ASTM A615, JIS G3112, etc. Check the manufacturer's certification, to know the characteristic
properties & bar quality.

10. Steel brochure:

Go through the steel bar brochure, to know the chemical composition like percentage of carbon
content in steel, mechanical & chemical properties, rebar weight tolerance, etc.

11. Bundle weight:

The manufactured bars may be underweight, theoretical weight, or overweight, depending

upon the dye used while casting the bars. If the weight of the bars is above the tolerance limit,
then you will pay more money for that extra weight.

The weight of the bundle should be within the purchase range, according to the tolerance given
in IS-1786.

So, check the weight of each bundle of TMT bars and compare them with the purchase range
table of that particular diameter bar.

To know the theoretical weight & purchase range of the steel bundle, go through the table in
the article,

Tolerance or rolling margin for the steel bundle as per IS-1786.

TESTING OF CONCRETE.

1. FIELD TESTS ON FRESH CONCRETE

(a) SLUMP TEST

A slump test is performed to determine the workability of fresh concrete and to

check the uniformity of concrete from batch to batch. The test is conducted
where the nominal size of the aggregate does not exceed 40mm, The apparatus
consists of a mold shaped like the frustum of a cone, with the following
dimensions.

 Bottom diameter 200mm.

 100mm.

 300mm.

Tamping rod of steel 16mm in diameter, 600mm long and rounded at one end.

PROCEDURE OF MEASURING SLUMP

1. The rod should penetrate every underlying layer.

2. Strike off excess concrete clean the internal surface of the mould.

3. Fill the mould with concrete in 4 layers.

4. Tamp each layer with 25 strokes of the rod.

5. Distribute the strokes uniformly over the entire cross-section of the mould.
after the top layer, with a trowel.

6. Remove the mould slowly and vertically.

7. The concrete will slump or slide.

8. Measure the height of the slump in mm.

9. For normal workability, the slump should not exceed 50mm.

10. Clean the slump cone.

(b) TEMPERATURE OF FRESH CONCRETE

This test is carried out to determine if fresh concrete is too hot or too cold. Hot
concrete stiffens rapidly and develops lower strengths at later stages. As per the
I.S., in hot weather, the temperature of hot concrete should not exceed 38
degrees centigrade while placing. In cold weather, a minimum temperature of 4.5
degrees centigrade is prescribed for the concrete at the time of placing.

Minimum 3 liters of fresh concrete is required for the test. At least 3 readings in
different parts of the batch should be taken. If the concrete is too hot. the
subsequent batches can be mixed by using cold water. Also, cool the aggregates
by sprinkling them with water.

2. LABORATORY TESTS OF HARDENED CONCRETE

Making cubes & curing for the required period.

This test is carried out for the following purposes.

1. To check that the mix proportions are adequate for the strength prescribed
as a basis for acceptance for quality control.

2. To determine the time of removal of forms when a structure may be put

into service.

3. To assess the 28 days compressive strength of the concrete in 24 hours,

using accelerated curing methods such as the boiling or warm water
method.

A. FREQUENCY OF THE TEST For quality control of concrete for major

construction projects, the number of samples is proportionate to the quantity of
concrete produced, subject to a minimum of three samples.

B. PROCEDURE FOR CASTING OF CUBES

1. Clean the standard cube moulds, 6 Nos. thoroughly & tighten all the nut-
bolts properly.

2. Apply oil to all contact surfaces of the mould. The size of the mould is
normally 150mm x 150mm x 150mm.

3. Take random samples from the mix in a ghamela, while concreting.

 4. Pour concrete into the cubes in 3 layers.

5. Compact each layer with 35 Nos. of strokes with the tamping rod.

6. Finish the top surface by thapi trowel after compaction of the last layer.

7. Cover the mould by a damp Hessian cloth immediately to prevent loss of

water.

8. Each specimen should be taken from different locations of the proposed

concreting.

9. After 24 hours, remove the specimen from the control of the quantity of
three the mould.

10. While removing, take care to avoid breaking of the edges.

11. Code the cubes with paint or marker. Coding should be self-explanatory,
showing the site name, concrete location, building no., and the date of
casting.

12. Submerge the specimen in clean, freshwater until the time of testing.

13. Test 3 specimens for 7 days & 3 specimens for 28 days curing concrete.

C. TESTING OF CONCRETE CUBES

For testing the cubes in the in-house lab of the organization, observe the
following procedures

1. Check the coding & numbers of cubes received.

2. Enter the details of the cubes in the testing register.

3. Weigh the cubes & note the figures in the register.

4. Inform the concerned person about any damages.

5. Check the dates of casting & testing for 7 & 28 days.

 6. Place the cubes in the testing machine, so that the load is applied to the
opposite side of the cube as case i:e, not on top & bottom. (Opposite sides
of the cube surfaces are in contact with sides of the metal mould).

7. Apply the load without interruptions & increase the load continuously, at a
rate of approximately 400kg/min until the resistance of the specimen breaks
down & no additional load can be sustained.

8. Record the maximum load applied to the specimen.

9. Observe the appearance of concrete connection with the failure & note the
same.

10. Calculate
11. compressive strength = (Maximum load at failure.) / (Contact Area of the
cube.)

12. Take average strength of 3 specimen cubes.

13. This average strength represents the strength of concrete of a particular

portion of the structure.

14. Prepare the test report & submit to higher authorities.

15. Cubes of the same lot should not vary.

16. Inspect the particular portion of the structure immediately, if results are
considerably below normal.

D. AGE ATTEST

Tests shall be carried out at ages prescribed for the test, the most usual being 7
days and 28 days.

E. PRECAUTIONS

1. Remove the mould after 24 hours and store the specimens in clean,
freshwater.
 2. The place where specimens are stored shall be free of vibrations.

3. The water in which the specimens are submerged shall be replaced every 7
days.

4. Specimens shall not be allowed to dry out at any time before testing.

3. NON DESTRUCTIVE TESTS ON HARDENED CONCRETE

A non-destructive test is defined as one that does not damage the structural
element or member under investigation.

Following are a few non-destructive tests generally performed

1. The ultrasonic pulse velocity test

2. Rebound hammer test

3. Test on cores cut from hardened concrete.

The purpose of carrying out these tests are

1. To determine the uniformity of concrete in/between members.

2. To detect the presence and approximate extent of cracks, voids, and other
defects.

Reason concrete cube samples 150mm and Procedure

Reason concrete cube samples 150mm

In concrete compression test, normally 150mmx150mmx150mm concrete cube samples is used for
testing.Why isn’t 100mmx100mmx100mm concrete cube samples used in the test instead of
150mmx150mmx150mm concrete cube samples?

Basically,the force supplied by a concrete compression machine is a definite value.For normal concrete
strength application,say below 50MPa, the stress produced by a 150mmx150mmx150mm cube is
sufficient for the machine to crush the concrete sample.
However,if the designed concrete strength is 100MPa,Under the same force(about2,000kN) supplied by
the machine,the stress under a 150mmx150mmx150mm cube Is not sufficient to crush the concrete
cube.Therefore,100mmx100mmx100mm concrete cubes are used instead.To increase the applied stress
to crush the concrete cubes.For normal concrete strength,the cube size of 150mmx150mmx150mm is
already sufficient for the crushing strength of the machine.

Cube Test

Instrument And Material.

Concrete cube mould of size 150mm or 100mm. It is used for aggregate size of not greater than 40mm
and 25mm. Cube mould for test must be made from steel or cast iron with smooth inner surface. Every
mould must have steel plate to support and to prevent leakage.

Compacting steel rod with 16mm diameter and 600mm long.

Compression test machine.

Procedures

1. Mould and base plate must be clean and applied with oil to prevent concrete from sticking to the
side of the cube. Base plate is attached to the mould by using bolt and nut.

2. Fill the cube with concrete in three layers.

3. Every layer must be compacted for 25 times. This process is carried out systematically and
compaction is done uniformly to all surfaces of the concrete. Compaction can also be conducted
using machine.

4. The surface of concrete must be smoothen so it will has the same level with the upper side of the
mould.

5. Cubes which are made at construction site must be covered with plastic cover for a period of 24
hours before the moulds can be dismantled.

6. After remoulded, the concrete cubes are submerged in water for curing.

7. Compression strength test must be carried out for concrete at age 7, 14, and 28 days by using
compression test machine.

Result

The Strength value of each cube must be recorded and compared with the targeted strength value. The
purpose of carrying out concrete test on 7 th day and the 14 th day is to predict whether the concrete
could archive the targeted 28 th day strength.In general, concrete would have acquired 70% strength on
the 7 th day.

Procedure for Casting of Concrete Cubes

The following Procedure for Casting of Concrete Cubes detailed given below:

SAMPLE OF CONCRETE

Sample of concrete for test specimen shall be taken at the mixer or in the case of ready mixed concrete
from the transportation vehicle at the time of discharge. Such samples shall be obtained by repeatedly
passing a scoop or pail through the discharge stream of the concrete. The samples thus obtained shall
be mixed on a non-absorbent base with shovel until it is uniform in appearance.

Number of samples to be taken depends on the quantity of concrete. As per IS-456, the following table
shall be followed during sampling.

Note:- Frequency of sampling may be agreed upon internally by supplier and purchaser.

Procedure for Casting of Concrete Cubes

1.Clean the standard cube moulds 6 Nos thoroughly and tight all nuts-bolts properly.

2.Apply oil to all contract surface of mould.

3.Size of mould is normally from the mixing spot while concreting.

4.Take the random sample from the mixing spot while concreting.

5.Fill the concrete in cubes in 3 layers.

6.Compact each layer with 35 Nos of stroke by tamping rod.

7.Finish the top surface by trowel after completion of last layer.

8.Cover the mould by damp hessian cloth immediately to prevent loss of water.

9.Each specimen should be taken from various locations of proposed concreting.

10.After 24 hours remove specimen out of mould.

11.While removing,take care to avoid breaking of edges.

12.put coding on cubes by paint or maker,coding should be self explanatory showing site name,concrete
location,building number and date of casting.

13.Submerge the specimen in clean fresh water till the time of testing.

14.Test 3 specimens for 7 days and 3 specimens for 28 days curing.

15.Average strength of 3 cubes represents the strength of concrete of particular portion of the
structure.

Precautions should be taken during placing of concrete

Following precautions should be taken during placing of concrete.

• The formwork or the surface which is to receive the fresh concrete should be properly cleaned,
prepared and well watered.

• It is desirable to deposit concrete as near as practicable to its final position.

•The large quantities of concrete should not be deposited at a time. Otherwise the concrete will start to
flow along the formwork and consequently the resulting concrete will not have uniform composition.

•The concrete should be dropped vertically from a reasonable height. For vertical laying of concrete,
care should be taken to use stiff mix. Otherwise the bleeding of concrete through cracks in forms will
take place. The term bleeding is used to mean the diffusion or running of concrete through formwork.

•The concrete should be deposited in horizontal layers of about 150 mm height. For mass concrete, the
layers may be of 400 mm to 500 mm height. The accumulation of excess water in upper layers is known
as the laitance and it should be prevented by using shallow layers with stiff mix or by putting dry batches
of concrete to absorb the excess water.
•As far as possible, the concrete should be placed in single thickness. In case of deep sections, the
concrete should be placed in successive horizontal layers and proper care should be taken to develop
enough bond between successive layers.

•The concrete should be thoroughly worked around the reinforcement and tapped in such a way that no
honeycombed surface appears on removal of the formwork. The term honeycomb is used to mean
comb or mass of waxy cells formed by bees in which they store their honey. Hence, if this precaution is
not taken, the concrete surface so formed would have a honeycomb like surface.

•The concrete should be placed on the formwork as soon as possible. But in no case, it should be placed
after 30 minutes of its preparation.