Experiment No.

1
Objective:
To determine the particle size distribution of aggregate by sieve analysis (Grading of Aggregate):
Requirements:
Apparatus:
1. A set of I.S. sieve 2. A balance of 10 kg capacity 3. Brushes
Material:
1. Well mixed Aggregate of 5 kg wt.
2. Fine mixed Aggregate of 2 kg wt.
Theory:
The particle size distribution of an aggregate as determined by sieve analysis is termed as grading of
aggregate. If all the particles of an aggregate are of uniform size, the compact mass will contain more
voids, where as an aggregate comprising particles of various sizes will give a mass containing lesser
voids. The particle size distribution of a mass of aggregate should be such that the smaller particle fills
the voids between the larger particles. The proper grading of an aggregate produces dense concrete
and needs less quantity of fine aggregate and cement paste. The grading of an aggregate is expressed
in terms of percentage by weight retained on or passing through a series of sieve taken in order, 80
mm, 60 mm, 40 mm, 20 mm, 16 mm, 12.5 mm, 10 mm, 4.75 mm for coarse aggregate.
The curve showing the cumulative percentages of the material passing the sieve represented on the
ordinate with the sieve openings to the logarithmic scale represented on the abscissa is termed as
grading curve. The grading curve indicate whether the grading of a given sample confirms to that
specified, or too coarse or too fine, or deficient in a particular size.
Fineness modulus:
The fineness modulus is a numerical index of fineness, giving some idea of the mean size of the
particles present in the entire body of the aggregate. The determination of the fineness modulus
consists in dividing a sample of aggregate into fractions of different sizes by sieving through a set of
standard test sieves taken in order. Each fraction consists of particles between definite limits. The
material retained on each sieve after sieving represents the fraction of aggregate coarser than the sieve
in lower but finer than the sieve above. The sum of the cumulative percentages retained on the sieves
divided by 100 give the fineness modulus. For example, a fineness modulus of 8 can be interpreted to
mean that the 8th sieve i.e. 4.75 mm is the average size. The value of fineness modulus is higher for
coarser aggregate.
Course Aggregate:
The aggregate particles retain on 4.75 mm I.S. sieve is called course aggregate.
Fine Aggregate:
Aggregate particles passing through 4.75 mm I.S. sieve and retained on 75 micron sieve is called fine
aggregate.
Coefficient of uniformity (Cu) and co-efficient of curvature (Cc can be determined from these particle
sizes as given below);
Cu = D60 / D10 ( D10, D30, D60 respectively are the particle sizes such that 10%, 30% and 60% of the
total soil is finer than this size.)
Cc = (D30)2 / (D10 x D60)

Procedure:
1. Dry the sample material by heating at temperature of 100º C to 110 º C.
2. Weight the sample material.
3. Clean the sieves and sieved the material starting with the largest size.
4. Shake the sieve with a varied motion backwards and forwards, left and right, circular clock-
wise and anticlockwise and with frequent jarring.
5. If sieving is carried out with a nest of sieves on a machine, not less than 10 minutes sieving
will be required for each test.
Observation Table:
Weight of total aggregate taken for analysis = ……..grams
a) For Coarse Aggregate:
Sieve Wt. of Cumulative Cumulative % Cumulative % Remarks
Size aggregate wt. retained Retained finer (N) than
(mm) retained (gms) (gms) (100-R)

80
63
40
20
16
12.5
10
4.75
pan
Total
mass
retained
b) For fine aggregate:
Sieve Wt. of Cumulative Cumulative % Cumulative % Remarks
Size aggregate wt. retained Retained finer (N) than
(mm) retained (gms) (gms) (100-R)

4.75
2
1
0.600
0.425
0.212
0.150
0.075
Pan
Total
mass
retained

Calculation and Results:

The materials retained on different sieves are determined. The percentage of material retained on any
sieve is given by,
Pn = Mn * 100 / M

Where, Mn = mass of soil retained on sieve 'n'

M = total mass of the sample
The cumulative percentage of the material retained
Cn = P1 + P2 + …….. + Pn
Where, P1, P2 etc are percentage retained on sieve 1, 2 ….. which are coarser than sieve n. The
percentage finer than the sieve 'n'
Nn= 100- Cn
 1. Plot a curve between N and D on semi log graph.
2. Find Cu and Cc and classify the soil.
3. Calculate fineness modulus (F.M = Total cumulative % retained)/100)

The larger the numerical value of Cu, the more is the range of particles.
Soil – Cu >2 – uniform
Sand – Cu ≥ 6 well graded
Gravel – Cu ≥ 4well graded

For will graded Soil, 1 < Cc < 3

Conclusion:

Discussion and Precaution:

 Experiment No. 2
Objective:
To determine the water absorption capacity and density of brick.

Requirements:
Apparatus:
1. Water trough (container) 2. Weighing machine 3.Oven 4. Measuring Tape
5. Thermometer
Material requirements:
1. Brick Sample

Theory:
Water absorption capacity of porous material is defined as the ratio of wt. of water absorbed by the
material to its dry wt. The specific gravity of brick is an indirect measure of its strength.
Bricks for external use must be capable of preventing rainwater from passing through them to the
inside of walls of reasonable thickness. A good brick should absorb water maximum of its weight.
Suppose,
Dry wt. of brick = W1
Wt. after immersing in water after certain time = W2
Wt. of water absorbed = W2-W1
Water absorption = W/W1
Dry density of brick = (Wt. of dry brick / volume of brick)
Bulk density of brick = (Wt. of brick/ Volume of brick)
Water absorption in wt. in % = (wt. of water absorbed / dry wt. of body) * 100%

Procedure:
1. Take a sample of brick, clean with brush to remove dust.
2. Take dimensions of brick.
3. Take the dry wt. of brick after placing it in oven for some time.
4. Place the sample in water at temperature of 27 ± 2º C for 24 hours.
5. Remove the brick after 24 hours and wipe out any traces of water with a damp cloth.
6. Wt. the brick specimen.
7. Complete the weighing within three minutes after the specimen has been removed from the
water.

Observation and Calculation:

1. For density:

SN Brick Type Length Breadth Height Volume Mass Density Remarks

 1
2
3
4
5
6

2. For water absorption:

SN Wt. of dry brick (W1) Wt. of wet brick (W2) Water Water
absorption absorption in
%
1
2
3
4
5
6

Conclusion:

Discussion and Precaution:

It should be remembered that water absorption should be within 10 to 20%.

Standard value:
Water absorption should be < 12% for 1st class bricks

12-15% for 2nd class bricks

15-20% for 3rd class bricks

1st class brick :- 12% to 15% of it's dry weight.

2nd class brick :- 16% to 20% of it's dry weight.

3rd class brick :- upto 25% of it's dry weight.

 Experiment No. 3
Objective:
To determine the compressive strength of a given brick sample.

Requirements:
Apparatus:
1. Water bath 2. Compressive test machine
Material requirements:
1. Brick Samples (6 nos.) 2. 1:1 mortar by weight

Theory:
The engineering materials like brick is strong in compression rather than in tension because the brick
is mostly used for carrying compressive loads in building and other works. Compressive strength is
the important mechanical property. The compressive strength of brick depends upon its composition
and method of preparation. The usual crushing strength of common hand moulded well burnt bricks is
about 5 to 10 N/mm2 (50 to 100 kg/cm2) varying according to the nature of preparation of the clay.
Pressed and machine moulded bricks made of thoroughly pugged clay are much stronger than
common hand moulded bricks made from carelessly prepared clay.

The breaking compressive strength is obtained by using compressive strength machine and applying
compressive force till fracture.
The exact breaking force is given by,
F= 10-5 X2 + 0.9529 X + 21.452
Where, X = observed breaking value
Also,
Compressive strength = (Maximum load of failure N (kg) / average loaded area of brick (mm2))

Procedure:
A. Preconditioning of Samples:
1. Take sample of bricks. Remove unevenness observed in the bed faces to provide two smooth
and parallel faces by grinding.
2. Take the dimension of brick
3. Put this sample in clean water till the stopping of air bubble ( for 24 hours for very dry brick)
4. Prepare the 1:1 mortar by wt. of cement and sand with 40% of water ( 1 cement, 1 clean coarse
sand of grade, 3mm and down). Fill the frog of the brick with mortar.
5. Store under the damp Jute bags for 24 hours followed by immersion in clean water for 3 days.
6. Remove and wipe out any traces of moisture.

B. Testing of Samples:
1. Place the specimen with flat faces horizontal and mortar filled face facing upwards between
two 3 plywood sheet of 3mm thickness and carefully centered between plates of the testing
machine.
2. Apply load axially at a uniform rate of 14 N/mm2 (140 kg/cm2) per minute till failure occurs
and note the maximum load at failure.
3. The load at failure shall be the maximum load at which the specimen fails to produce any
further increase in the indicator reading on the testing machine.
(Note: In place of plywood sheets plaster of pairs may be used to ensure a uniform surface for
application of load.)

Observation and Calculation:

SN Brick Length Breadth Height Volume Loaded Maximum Compressive Remarks
Type area of load from strength
brick machine
1
2
3
4
5
6

Conclusion:
Discussion and Precaution:

Standard Compressive strength of various classes of bricks as per IS :1077-1976.

Class Average Average Average Average
designation compressive compressive compressive compressive
strength strength strength strength
Not less than Not less than less than Kg/cm2 less than N/mm2
Kg/cm2 N/mm2
350 350 35 400 40
300 300 30 350 35
250 250 25 300 30
200 200 20 250 25
175 175 17.5 200 20
150 150 15 175 17.5
125 125 12.5 150 15
100 100 10 125 12.5
75 75 7.5 100 10
35 35 3.5 50 5

Experiment No. 4
Objective:
To determine the Toughness of the following materials (Charpy test). a) Steel b) Wood

Requirements:
Apparatus:
1. Impact Testing machine
Material requirements:
1. Steel test specimen 2. Wood test specimen

Theory:
Toughness is the ability of a material to resist fracture under impact loads, or, suddenly applied loads
and is defined as the energy absorbed prior to fracture. In other words, the toughness of a material is
its ability to absorb energy in plastic range. This ability to withstand occasional stresses above the
yield stress without fracturing is desirable to the materials used for structural parts and machine parts
as they have to resist occasional high loads or heavy shocks. Tough materials can withstand large
deformation together with high stress without fracture. Toughness of a material broadly depends on
strain rate ie. Higher the strain rate, lower the toughness value. Toughness describes the behavior of a
material both at low strain rate and at high strain rate.
Impact Test:
To predict the behavior of material under suddenly applied loads and susceptibility of material to
fracture, the impact test is performed. In impact test the fracture may be either brittle or ductile. The
brittle fracture is not accompanied by a noticeable plastic deformation. This type of fracture will have
a bright granular or crystalline appearance. On the other hand, in ductile fracture considerable plastic
deformation takes place. The fractured surface will have a dull gray fibrous appearance. Many times a
mixed fracture, with both crystalline and fibrous areas, is observed.
Charpy impact test:
Charpy test consists of breaking a standard test piece with one blow from a swinging hammer. The test
is U-notched in the middle and supported at each end. For a standard test, the testing machine should
be 30 kgf-m and distance between the supports is 40 mm. The test piece is 55 mm long and square
section of 10 x 10 mm2, U – notch, 5 mm deep, rounded off at the base with radius of 1 mm, or V
notched as shown in fig, The test piece should be struck by the hammer in the plane of symmetry of
the notch and on the side opposite the notch. Impact strength of the material is the energy absorbed per
unit volume during the fracture of the material. I is expressed in joules of kilogram force metre.
The kinetic energy of the pendulum at the point of impact is known because the starting point and the
mass of the pendulum are known. The energy absorbed by the specimen is lost by the pendulum and
the follow through swing is reduced in production to the amount of energy absorbed.
Impact strength (toughness) = σ
Energy required to rupture the specimen (kg-m) = U
Cross-sectional area of the specimen at the notched
Cross-sectional area (mm2) = A
Therefore, σ = U/A (kgm/ mm2)

Testing Machine:
The testing machine shall comply with the following requirements:
Distance between supports = 40 ± 0.5 mm
Radius of curvature of the support = 1 mm
Tapers of support = 1.5 mm
Angle at tip of the hammer = 30º ± 1 º
Radius of curvature of the tip of the hammer = 2 to 2.5 mm
Speed of hammer at the instant of striking = 4.5 to 7 m/s
For a standard test the striking energy of the testing machine shall be 30 ± 1 kgfm

Procedure:
1. Take the sample and clean the sample.
2. Put the sample squarely against the supports with the plane of symmetry of the notch within 0.5
mm of the plane midway between them.
3. The sample piece is struck by the hammer in the plane of symmetry of the notch and on the side
opposite the notch.
4. The temperature of the specimen shall be taken 27 ± 2º C.
5. Measure the energy absorbed per unit volume during the fracture of the material.
6. If during the test, specimen is not completely broken, the impact value obtained is indefinite.

Observation and Calculation:

SN Specimen materials Energy absorbed (J) Remarks
Conclusion:

Discussion and Precaution:

1. Toughness property is important in case of hammering, power punching, crane works and
chain. It is also important for laboratory test, factory establishment, flooring works, steel
bridges etc.
2. Measure the dimensions of the cross-section of the specimen accurately.
3. Hammer should strike the specimen on the side opposite to the notch.

Experiment No. 5
Objective:
To determine standard consistency of a given sample of cement.

Requirements:
Apparatus:
1. Vicat’s apparatus with Vicat’s plunger 2. Vicat’s needle and Vicat’s mould 3. Gauging trowel
4. Measuring jar 5. Weighing balance 6. Stop watch 7. Thermometer
Material requirements:
1. Cement powder (OPC) with 300gm 2. Water (clean water)

Theory:
Standard consistency of cement paste is defined as the consistency which will permit the Vicat’s
plunger to penetrate to a point 5 to 7 mm from bottom of the Vicat mould. Consistency test is the
method of test conducted to determine the percentage of water required for preparing cement paste of
standard consistency for other test. Since different batches of cement differ in fineness, pastes with the
same water content may differ in consistency when first mixed. For this reason the consistency of the
paste is standardized by varying the water content until the paste has a given resistance to penetration,
when it is first mixed. When testing the Portland cement it is necessary to carry-out trial mixes until a
mix of the required consistency is obtained. The quantity of water required to produce a paste of
standard consistency, is needed for the determination of the water content of mortar for tensile test,
soundness test and setting time test.
It is essential that cement set neither too rapidly nor too slowly. In the first case there might be
insufficient time to transport and place the concrete before it becomes too rigid. In the second case too
long a setting period tends to slow up the work unduly, also it might postpone the actual use of the
structure because of inadequate strength at the desired age. Setting should not be confused with
hardening, which refers to the gain in mechanical strength after the certain degree of resistance to the
penetration of a special attachment pressed into it. Two periods of times are used to assess the setting
behavior. These are called the “initial setting time” and the “final setting time”.

Vicat’s Apparatus with its accessories:

(Define the apparatus with neat and clean drawing)

Procedure:
1. Mix 300gm of cement with 25% (75ml) of water in a crucible. Use a spatula of standard shape.
2. After about 30 seconds, mix the paste thoroughly using hands.
3. It is then tossed from one hand to other and then filled in Vicat Mould.
4. The superfluous paste is removed from the top of the mould by using palm.
5. The mould is inverted and placed on a glass plate. Any superfluous mass from the top is now
removed by a trowel.
6. The mould is now placed under the 1 mm needle of vicat apparatus. The needle is brought in
contact with the top of the paste surface. It is then released quickly without jerk. Penetration of
the needle into the paste takes place. This should be done within 3-5 minutes after adding water
to make the paste.
7. The experiment is repeated by adding different volumes of water for making the paste.
Obviously. Penetration will be different in different pastes.
8. The type of paste in which the needle penetrates to a depth of 33-35mm in the mould is defined
as a paste of normal consistency.
9. The quantity of water (expressed in percentage terms of dry weight of cement which gives a
standard paste as defined in above is defined as water required for paste of normal consistency.

Observation and Calculation:

Weight of cement = …………gm

S.N. Quantity of water % by wt. of dry cement Penetration from % of water for
added the bottom of standard
mould (mm) consistency (mm)
1
2
3
4
5

Conclusion:
Discussion and Precaution:
1. The cement balls if any should be powdered before adding water to the cement.
2. The experiment should be performed away from vibrations and other disturbances.

Experiment No. 6
Objective:
To determine initial setting time and final setting time of a given sample of Cement
(Vicat's needle test).

Requirements:
Apparatus:
1. It consists of a frame with a movable rod with a cap.
2. A needle of 1 mm sq. cross section is attached to the lower end of the rod for
determination of initial setting time only. The total wt. of the rod along with the needle
is 300 gm.
3. Another needle like the above but with hollow metallic attachment with a circular
cutting edge of 5mm in diameter and having 0.5 mm projecting end of the needle. It is
attached to the lower end of the rod when final setting time is to be determined.
4. A standard Vicat Mould in which the test specimen is allowed to set.
5. Measuring jar 6. Weighing balance 7. Stop watch 8. Thermometer
Material requirements:
From the sample of cement to be tested, test specimen are prepared in the following manner.
 1. Take 300 gm of cement. Form a paste by mixing 0.85 P (where P denotes percentage of
water required to make paste of normal consistency). Note the time when the water is
added to the cement with the help of stopwatch. Let it be T1.
2. Fill the vicat mould completely with the paste so prepared under the standard
conditions of temperature and humidity (27° ± 2° C and at least 90% relative humidity.)

Theory:
It is essential that cement set neither too rapidly nor too slowly. In the first case there might be
insufficient time to transport and place the concrete before it becomes too rigid. In the second case too
long a setting period tends to slow up the work unduly, also it might postpone the actual use of the
structure because of inadequate strength at the desired age. Some cements set quickly, within a few
minutes whereas others may take comparatively longer time. Moreover, setting is not an abrupt
process., which may complete immediately after its start., it is rather a progressive phenomenon,
which has beginning, full development and an end. It is, on this latter basis, setting is distinguished
into initial and final setting, qualified by the time required in each case. Setting should not be confused
with hardening, which refers to the gain in mechanical strength after the certain degree of resistance to
the penetration of a special attachment pressed into it. Two periods of times are used to assess the
setting behavior. These are called the “initial setting time” and the “final setting time”. Influence
factors for setting time are temperature, percentage of water mixed to the cement, the humidity.

Procedure:
Initial setting time:
1. Fix the specified needle (for initial setting time) with the rod. Place the mould with the
test specimen under the rod and lower the rod gently till it comes into contact with the
block and then quickly release the rod.
2. Note the depth to which the needle penetrates the paste. Repeat the experiment (of
releasing rod) till the depth of penetration is 35 mm above the base of the mould. This
means, the needle penetrates up to 35mm and cannot penetrate the last 5mm at the base of
mould. When this happen, note the time once again. Let it be T2.
3. Initial Setting time = T2 – T1

Final Setting time:

1. The needle with a circular cutting edge is used for this purpose. Using the same sample that
has been used for finding the initial setting time, the rod with this needle is released again
and again after bringing in contact with the paste in the mould.
2. Initially, the needle along with cutting edge may pierce in the paste but a time would come
when it fails to pierce at all. The time is noted when the needle fails to penetrate the
specimen but only makes a slight impression (and the cutting edge does not even make that
impression) Let this time be T3.
3. Final setting time = T3 – T1

Note: For ordinary cement, Initial setting time shall not less than 30 minutes and Final setting
time shall not be more than 10 hours.

Observation and Calculation:

Weight of cement = …………gm

Time at which Time at which Penetration Elapsed time = Penetration in Initial setting
water is added penetration from bottom of T2 –T1 mm time (min)
(T1) reading taken the mould in minutes
(T2) mm
Similarly, Final Setting time =

Conclusion:

Discussion and Precaution:

1. Release the initial and final setting times needless gently.
2. The cement balls if any should be powdered before adding water to the cement.
3. The experiment should be performed away from vibrations and other disturbances.
4. While preparing the test block do not press the cement in the mould.

Experiment No. 7
Objective:
To determine the fineness of cement by dry sieving method.

Requirements:
Apparatus:
IS sieve no.9 (90 micron sieve), Rice plate, weighing balance (Sensitive to: 0.1 gm).

Material requirements:
Cement 300gms
Theory:
Control of particle size of cement is important in practice because it has an influence on the behaviour
of the cement. The finer the cement in grain size, the better is its quality. Cement which is more finely
ground, hardnes more rapidly and has a higher rate of heat evolution at early ages. Fineness of
grinding is of more importance in relation to the workability of concrete mixes. Greater fineness
improves the cohesiveness the concrete mix and the quantity of water rising to the surface of the
concrete known as bleeding is reduced. It is for this reason that in cement industry there is consistent
effort towards finding methods for obtaining the finest grain size in grinding the clinker.

Shrinkage cracking is related to the rate of development of strength of concrete. In general cements
which gain more strength rapidly are more apt to cracking. Increasing the fineness of any particular
cement, raises its rate of development of strength and so indirectly increases the risk of shrinkage
crack formation. Extremely fine size, however, is also known to cause cracking on setting. It is also
established that very fine size does not improve the ultimate strength of the cement in any way.
Therefore, percentage fineness = (Wt of residue / wt. of sample) x 100%

Procedure:
1. Weigh accurately 300 gm of cement in a rice plate.
2. Place it on a standard IS 90 micron sieve breaking down any air-set lumps in the cement
sample with finger.
3. Continuously sieve the sample by holding the sieve in both the hands. Sieve with a gentle wrist
motion for a period of 15 minutes, rotating the sieve continuously throughout the sieving,
involving no danger of spalling the cement.
4. Weigh the residue after 15 minutes of sieving.
5. Repeat the procedure for two more such samples.

Observation and Calculation:

Weight of cement taken on IS: 90 micron sieve = …………gm
Weight of residue after 15 minutes of sieving = …………… gm

Sample Weight of sample (gms) Weight of residue Percentage of fineness

No. (gms)
1
2
3

Conclusion:

Discussion and Precaution:

1. Residue should not exceed 10% by weight of the sample of cement.
2. Before sieving, air set lumps of cement should be broken.
3. Sieving should be done by rotating the sieve and not by translation.

Experiment No. 8
Objective:
To determine the compressive strength of given cement.

Requirements:
Apparatus:
70.6 mm x 70.6 mm (50 cm2) cube moulds, apparatus for gauging and mixing mortar, Standard
universal testing machine etc.

Material requirements:
200 gm cement mixed with 3 times its weight of standard sand for each cube.

Theory:
The mechanical strength of hardened cement is the property of the material that is needed in structural
design. Strength tests are not made on a neat cement paste because of difficulties of moulding and
testing with a consequent large variability of test, results. The strength of cement is usually determined
from tests on mortar made with cement. The compressive strength of cement is determined as
represented by compressive strength tests on mortar cubes compacted by means of a standard vibration
machine. The standard sand shall be used in the test which shall conform to IS: 650-1966. The
specimen shall be in the form of cubes 70.6mm x 70.6mm x 70.6mm. The parts of the mould when
assembled shall be positively held together and suitable methods of ensuring this, both during the
filling and on a subsequent removal of the filled mould from the vibration machine shall be provided
in order to prevent the moulded specimen from damage.

(Note: Drawing necessary).

Procedure:
1. Prepare the cement and sand paste of 1:3 proportion by weight using (P/4+ 3) percent of water
where P is the percentage of water required to produce a paste of standard consistency.
2. Fill the 9 numbers of moulds by compacting it for 2 minutes on a vibrating machine at a speed
of 12000 ± 400 vibration per minute.
3. Smoothen the top surface of the cubes with flat side of a trowel.
4. Immediately upon completion of moulding, place the cube moulds in an atmosphere of 27º C ±
2º C and relative humidity over 90%. After 24 hours, remove the specimens from the moulds
and keep them in water till testing.
5. Test the 3 cubes at 3 days, 3 cubes at 7 days and remaining 3 cubes at 28 days age in the
compression testing machine at such a rate that maximum load is reached in 80-100 seconds.
6. Report the average compressive strength in N/mm2 (kg/cm2) for 3 days, 7 days and 28 days.

Observation and Calculation:

Weight of cement for one cube = …………gm
Weight of sand for one cube = …………… gm
Weight of water for one cube = (P/4 + 3) % =
Area of cube face = 50 cm2
(Note: P = Standard consistency of cement as determined earlier by Standard consistency test of
cement.)

Sample Age for test Load (N) Compressive Average Compressive Remarks
No. Strength (N/mm2) Strength (N/mm2)
1 3 days
2 3 days
3 3 days
4 7 days
5 7 days
6 7 days
7 28 days
8 28 days
9 28 days

Conclusion:

Discussion and Precaution:

 1. The moulds should be oiled before use.
2. The weighings should be done accurately.
3. The temperature and humidity must e accurately controlled.
4. Increase the load during testing gradually.

Experiment No. 9

Objective: To determine Impact value of the given course aggregate.

Requirements:
Apparatus Required:
Impact testing machine, a cylindrical measure, tamping rod, IS Sieves, balance and oven.

(i) Impact Testing Machines:-It consists of a base with plane lower surface supported well on
a firm floor without rocking. A detachable cylindrical steep cup of internal diameter
102mm and depth 50mm is rigidly fastened centrally to the base plate. A metal hammer
weight between 135N (13.5kg) and 140 N (14 kg) having the lower end cylindrical in
shape, 100 mm in diameter and 50 mm long, with 2 mm chamfer at the lower edge is
capable of sliding freely between vertical guides, and fall concentric over the cup. There is
an arrangement of raising the hammer and allowing it to fall freely between vertical guides
from a height of 380 mm on the test specimen in the cup, the height of fall being
adjustable upto 5mm. A key is provided for supporting the hammer while fastening or
removing the cup.
 (ii) Measure: Cylindrical metal measure having internal diameter 75mm and depth 50mm for
measuring aggregates .

(iii) Tampering rod: Straight metal tamping rod of circular cross section, 10mm in diameter
and 230mm long, rounded at one end.

(iv) Sieves: IS sieve of sizes 12.5mm, 10mm and 2.36 mm.

(v) Balance: A balance of capacity greater than 500g with at least count of 0.1g.

(vi) Oven: A thermostatically controlled drying oven capable of maintaining constant

temperature between 100 degree centigrade and 110 degree centigrade.

Material requirements:

Aggregate passing 12.5mm sieve and retained at 10 mm sieve

Theory:
Toughness is the property of a material to resist impact. It is characterized by the energy absorbed
before failure. Aggregate in bulk is used in structural concrete, pavement or in the railway tracks.
Impact forces may result from moving vehicles, falling weights etc. Individual aggregate particles may
fracture at corners or edges, or some elongated particles may fracture in the middle due to such impact
forces. The impact value of bulk aggregates seeks to measure the extent of formation of smaller
particles by resistance of bulk aggregates under impact loading. The impact results in fragmentation in
a manner similar to that produced by the pressure of the plunger in the Aggregate crossing value test.
For majority of aggregates, the aggregate impact value and the aggregate crushing values are
numerically similar within fairly close limits, but the fine grained siliceous aggregate are less resistant
to impact than crushing load. The impact value should be 30 for aggregates to be used for wearing
courses and 45 for the other surfaces.
Let,
Weight of fraction passing 2.36 mm IS Sieve = B
Weight of Oven dried Sample = A
Aggregate Impact value=B/A*100%

Procedure:

(a) Take a test sample of coarse aggregate the whole of which passes through a 12.5 mm IS Sieve
and is retained on a 10mm IS Sieve.

(b) Fill the measure to about one third full with aggregates and tamp it with rounded end of the
tamping rod with 25 strokes, Further add one third quantity and tamp it. The measure shall
finally be filled to overflowing, tamped 25 times and surplus aggregates struck off using
tamping rod.

(c) The net weight of the aggregate in the measure should be determined to the nearest gram
(weight A.)

(d) The cup of the Impact machine should be fixed firmly in position on the base of the machine
and the whole of the test sample placed in it and compacted by a single tamping of 25 strokes.

(e) Raise the hammer until its lower face is 380 mm above the upper surface of the aggregate in
the cup and allow to fall freely on the aggregate. Make 15 such blows at the rate one blow per
second.
 (f) Remove the crushed aggregates from the cup and the whole of it sieved on 2.36 mm sieve
until no further significant amount passes in one minute.

(g) The fraction passing the 2.35 mm Sieve is weighted (Weight B) and the fraction retained is
also weighed (Weight C).

(h) The value is expressed as a whole number and is the average of the three tests. If the
difference A-(B+C) is more than one gram, the test shall be repeated.

Observations and Calculations:

SN Wt. of dry Wt. of fraction Aggregate Impact Average Remarks
sample A (gm) passing 2.36 mm value = (B/A)x 100% aggregate
B (gm) impact value
1
2
3

Conclusion:

Discussion and Precautions:

(a) All weighing should be done on a sensitive weighting machine to an accuracy of 1 in 1000.
(b) Proper Sieve should be used for preparing the sample.
(c) The sample should be subjected to standard number blows i.e. 15 in number, at not less than one
second interval.
(d) To avoid any accident while giving blows check that the metallic cup is tightly bolted to the base
plate.
(e)The safety lock should always be in position, except while giving blows.

Standard Impact Values:

1. Exceptional strong = < 10%
2. Strong = 10% - 20%
3. Satisfaction for road use = 20% - 30%
4. weak for road surfacing = >35%

Experiment No. 10
Objective:
To determine the tensile strength of cement

Requirements:
Apparatus:
Briquettes of 2.54 cm thick, loading machine

Material requirements:
Cement, Sand mortar of 1:3 ratio
Theory:
It is defined as usual, the resistance of a material (in this case cement) to tensile forces. The usual
method of tensile strength of cement involves preparation of number of test specimens made in the
shape of briquettes with specified dimensions. These briquettes are prepared from a cement sand
mortar of 1:3 and water percentage given by (0.2*P +2.5); where P is the normal consistency.
The briquettes are moulded in a standard manner, cured for 24 hours at a temperature of 27 ± 2° C for
24 hours in an atmosphere of at 90 % relative humidity, and tested in direct tension, the pull being
applied through special jaws engaging the wide ends of the briquette. Average strength for six
briquettes tested after 3 and 7 days should not be less than 2 N/mm2 and 2.5 N/mm2 respectively.
(Note: Drawing necessary).
Procedure:
1. Make the cement paste of normal consistency.
2. Prepare briquettes.
3. Briquettes are placed in moist atmosphere for 24 hours.
4. Submerged in water at the same temperature till they are taken out for testing.
5. Load is applied or increased at the rate of 35 kg/ cm2
6. Record the value.
Observation and Calculation:
Weight of cement for one Briquette = …………gm
Weight of sand for one Briquette = …………… gm
Weight of water for one cube = 0.2* P + 2.5 =

(Note: P = Standard consistency of cement as determined earlier by Standard consistency test of

cement.)

Sample Age for test Load (N) Tensile Strength Average Tensile Remarks
No. (N/mm2) Strength (N/mm2)
1 3 days
2 3 days
3 3 days
4 7 days
5 7 days
6 7 days

Discussion and Precaution:

1. The moulds should be oiled before use.
2. The weighings should be done accurately.
3. The temperature and humidity must be accurately controlled.
4. Increase the load during testing gradually.
5. For Portland cement not less than 20 kg/ cm2 after 3 days and 25 kg/ cm2 after 7 days.

Experiment No. 11

Objective:
Group demonstration of Abrasion of Agregate
 Experiment No. 12
Objective:
To determine the soundness of the given cement

Requirements:
Apparatus:
Le-chatelier's apparatus:- It consists of a small, split, metallic cylinder having an internal
diameter of 30 mm. It is 30 mm in height with thickness of wall being 0.5 mm. It is fixed with two
indicators, one fixed on either side of the split. The distance from the end of the indicator to the centre
of the cylinder is 165 mm. The mould shall kept in good condition with not more than 0.5 mm apart.
Material requirements:
The cement to be tested is made into paste of specified consistency
Theory:
This test is performed to detect the presence of uncombined lime and magnesia in cement. All cement
expands to some extent on setting. This expansion is sometimes responsible for cracking of set
cement. This is an unsound quality. By soundness of cement is, therefore, understood its capacity to
form a non-disintegrating, hard and uniformly strong mass on setting. This depends on its original
composition, proper burning and grinding. Presence of lime in free-state, an excess of sulphate or
magnesia and very fine size may be the cause of unsoundness in cement. As the cement absorbs
moisture, free lime expands to many times its original volume and develops considerable heat both of
which are injurious to concrete. The immediate hydration of free lime may not take place because lime
after the cement is set and since lime expands manifold and with considerable force when hydrated, its
delayed hydration may readily disrupt the mass. One advantage of slow setting cement is that more
time is given to hydrate the lime before the mass becomes rigid. 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.
Procedure:
1. Place the mould on a glass sheet and fill it with the cement paste formed by gauging cement
with 0.78 times the water required to give a paste of Standard consisting (approximately 30%),
keeping the edge of the mould gently together.
2. Cover the mould with another glass plate, placing a small weight on the covering glass plate
and immediately submerge the whole assembly in water at a temperature of 27º C ± 2º C and
keep there for 24 hours.
3. Measure the distance D1 between the indicator points after 24 hours and again submerge the
mould in the water at the same temperature.
4. Bring the water to boiling in 25 to 30 minutes and keep it boiling for 3 hours.
5. Remove the mould form the water, allow it to cool and measure the distance D2 between the
indicator points.
6. The difference (D2 – D1) between the two measurements gives expansion of cement and it
should not be more than 10 mm according to IS specification.
Observation and Calculation:
Type of cement:
Initial distance between the indicator points (D1) = …………gm
Final distance between the indicator points (D2) = …………… gm
Expansion of cement (D2-D1) = …………….. mm
Soundness of Cement = ……… mm

Conclusion:
Discussion and Precaution:
1. Note the measurements D1 and D2 accurately.
2. Do not apply extra pressure while filling the moulds.
3. Cooling the samples should be gradual.
4. The difference between last measurement and original measurement should not be exceed 10
mm).

Experiment No. 13

Objective:
To determine the Bulking of fine aggregate
Requirements:
Apparatus:
Weighing balance sensitive to 0.1 percent of the weight of the sample to be weighed,
Cylindrical metal pot of fixed volume 150 mm diameter and 150mm in height, 100cm graduated
cylindrical measure, mixing pan and tamping rod 16mm diameter and 600mm long bullet pointed at
one end.
Material Required:
400 gms of dry Sand, Water
Theory:
The increase in volume of sand on getting moist is termed as bulking of sand. Dry and fully saturated
sand does not bulk. As the sand become finer the bulking of the sand increases. Hence the rate of
bulking of sand depends upon two factors - Percentage of moisture content & Grain size of sand
particle.
If damp sand is loosely deposited, its volume is much more than that when the same sand is deposited
in a loose, dry state. The phenomenon of increase in volume of sand due to dampness is known as
bulking of sand. In damped state, cohesion develops between the particles due to capillary water. The
cohesion prevents the particles from taking a stable position. A sort of honey comb structure is
formed. The effect is predominant when the water content is between 4 to 5 %.The increase in volume
due to bulking is between 20% to 30% for most sand. If the damp sand is saturated by adding more
water, the effect of capillary action is eliminated and the volume of the sand mass is decreased.
Similarly, fine sand shows higher bulking rate compared to coarse sand. Bulking may be to an extent
of 30% of original dry volume of sand in fine sand and 15% in case of coarse sand. Due to the bulking
of sand, the mortar may contain less amount of sand than required amount. Hence, the correction
factor for bulking of sand has to be applied after determining the rate of bulking for the sand to be
used in mortar and concrete materials. The bulking factor with respect to dry loose sand is the ratio of
unit weight of dry loose sand and unit weight of dry sand contained in wet loose sand.
= (Wd/Wdw)
The bulking factor w.r.t dry compacted sand is the ratio of unit weight of dry compacted sand and unit
weight of dry sands contained in wet loose sand.
= (Wd/Wdw)
Unit weight of dry sand contained in wet loose sand, is given by
Wdw =Ww /(1+X/100)
Where, Ww = Unit weight of loose wet sand and X is the percentage moisture content.
Therefore, Percentage bulking = (Bulking factor-1)*100
Procedure:
Work out the quantity of sand in N (kg) required to fill the pot in compacted state. Take
representative sample of dry and approximately more than 10% of the calculated quantity. Weight it
and put in the mixing pan. This quantity of the sand should be continued throughout the experiment.
Care shall be taken that no sand shall be lost at the time of filling and emptying of pot back to the
mixing pan.
Weigh empty dry cylindrical pot, fill it with water and take its weight. Dry the pot and then fill
it with dry sand loosely to overflowing, taking care that the sand is discharged from a height not
exceeding 50 mm above the top of measure. Level the surface at the top with the tamping rod and
weight the pot with loose sand filled. Similarly find the weight of pot with compacted sand filled. The
compaction of sand is done in layers of about 5 cm height, each layer being tamped 25 strokes
uniformly distributed over the surface by the standard tamping rod. Determine unit weights of dry
loose and dry compacted sand as Wd and W’d respectively. Place the dry sand back into the mixing pan
and add known percentage of water by weight to the sand. Mix water thoroughly with sand by hand
till it appears uniform. Fill the cylindrical pot with moist sand of known moisture content loosely and
find the weight of the pot filled with moist sand. Vary the moisture content starting from 2% in steps
of 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 16, 20, 25 percent and repeat as before to determine the unit weight of loose wet sand
Ww. Calculate the bulking factors with respect to compacted dry and loose sand and plot a graph
giving curves for percentage bulking and moisture content.

Observations and Calculations:

a) Weight of representative sand sample = …………….. N (kg)
(b) Weight of empty pot = …………….. N (kg)
(c ) Weight of pot filled with water = …………………. N (kg)
(d) Weight of pot + loose dry sand = …………………. N (kg)
(e) Weight of pot + compacted dry sand = ……………….N (kg)
(f) Unit weight of loose dry sand = Wd = …………………… N/lit (kg/lit)
(g) Unit weight of compacted dry sand W’d = ………………. N/lit (kg/lit)
(h) Unit weight of loose wet sand = Ww = …………………… N/lit (kg/lit)

SN Water content Volume of Final Increase in % increase Remarks

water added (ml) volume of volume in volume
sand (gm) (gm)
Moisture % Percentage
bulking
Fine sand Medium sand Coarse sand Remarks
1
2
3
4
5
6
8
10
12
15
17
20
27

Percentage Bulking of loose sand =

Percentage bulking of compacted sand =
Conclusion:
Discussion and Precaution:
1. All the weighing should be done very accurately.
2. No sand particles should be lost while filling or emptying the pot.
3. Mix the water in the sand uniformly.

Experiment No. 14
Objective:
To determine the crushing value of given aggregate.

Requirements:
Apparatus:
Compressive test machine, tamping rod, mould

Material requirements:
Aggregate sample passing through 12.5 mm and retained on 10 mm.
Theory:
Procedure:
Observation and Calculation:
Conclusion:
Discussion and Precaution:
 Experiment No. 15
Objective:
Group demonstration on microstructure analysis of given material.

Requirements:
Apparatus:
1. Microscope
Material requirements:
1. Specimen

Theory:
The appearance of the structure of a material under a microscope is called microstructure. Optical
microscopes are used for magnifications upto 1000 times while electron microscopes can produce
magnifications upto several thousands times. Microstructure of a material consists of phase structure
and grain structure. The phase structure is expressed in terms of various phases present, their relative
amounts, distribution and alignment. Depending upon the number of phases present, microstructures
are either called single phase or multiphase structures. The grain structure of a material shows shape
and size of the grains (crystals) which form the bulk material. It is characterized by grain boundaries,
grain shape and grain size. Typical examples of grain structure are columnar, dendritic and equiaxed
grains.
(Note: Describe the microstructure of given material with drawing from various books.)

Procedure:

(Note: Describe the procedure for preparation of specimen and microstructure analysis of given
material with drawing from various books.)

Observation:

Conclusion:

Discussion and Precaution:

Experiment No. 9
Objective:
To determine the Impact value of stone aggregate.

Requirements:
Apparatus:
1. Impact Testing machine
Material requirements:
1. Steel test specimen 2. Wood test specimen

Theory:
Impact Test:
To predict the behavior of material under suddenly applied loads and susceptibility of material to
fracture, the impact test is performed. In impact test the fracture may be either brittle or ductile. The
brittle fracture is not accompanied by a noticeable plastic deformation. This type of fracture will have
a bright granular or crystalline appearance. On the other hand, in ductile fracture considerable plastic
deformation takes place. The fractured surface will have a dull gray fibrous appearance. Many times a
mixed fracture, with both crystalline and fibrous areas, is observed.
Charpy impact test:
Charpy test consists of breaking a standard test piece with one blow from a swinging hammer. The test
is U-notched in the middle and supported at each end. For a standard test, the testing machine should
be 30 kgf-m and distance between the supports is 40 mm. The test piece is 55 mm long and square
section of 10 x 10 mm2, U – notch, 5 mm deep, rounded off at the base with radius of 1 mm, or V
notched as shown in fig, The test piece should be struck by the hammer in the plane of symmetry of
the notch and on the side opposite the notch. Impact strength of the material is the energy absorbed per
unit volume during the fracture of the material. I is expressed in joules of kilogram force metre.
The kinetic energy of the pendulum at the point of impact is known because the starting point and the
mass of the pendulum are known. The energy absorbed by the specimen is lost by the pendulum and
the follow through swing is reduced in production to the amount of energy absorbed.
Impact strength (toughness) = σ
Energy required to rupture the specimen (kg-m) = U
Cross-sectional area of the specimen at the notched
Cross-sectional area (mm2) = A
Therefore, σ = U/A (kgm/ mm2)

Testing Machine:
The testing machine shall comply with the following requirements:
Distance between supports = 40 ± 0.5 mm
Radius of curvature of the support = 1 mm
Tapers of support = 1.5 mm
Angle at tip of the hammer = 30º ± 1 º
Radius of curvature of the tip of the hammer = 2 to 2.5 mm
Speed of hammer at the instant of striking = 4.5 to 7 m/s
For a standard test the striking energy of the testing machine shall be 30 ± 1 kgfm

Procedure:
7. Take the sample and clean the sample.
8. Put the sample squarely against the supports with the plane of symmetry of the notch within 0.5
mm of the plane midway between them.
9. The sample piece is struck by the hammer in the plane of symmetry of the notch and on the side
opposite the notch.
10. The temperature of the specimen shall be taken 27 ± 2º C.
11. Measure the energy absorbed per unit volume during the fracture of the material.
12. If during the test, specimen is not completely broken, the impact value obtained is indefinite.

Observation and Calculation:

SN Specimen materials Energy absorbed (J) Remarks

Conclusion: