DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

Laboratory Manual

For

Material Testing Practical

Course Code : CEC 204

Location : Geotechnical Lab & Concrete lab

INDIAN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (INDIAN SCHOOL OF MINES), DHANBAD

Dhanbad-826004, Jharkhand
 Contents
Sl. Page
Name of Experiment Signature
No. No.
1 Water content and Specific Gravity of Soil: 2-7
Oven dry, and Infrared method; Specific gravity
by density bottle.
2 Particle Size Analysis of Soil: 8-23
Dry sieve analysis and Hydrometer analysis.
3 Tests on Cement: 24-37
Specific gravity, Fineness, Consistency, Initial
setting time, Final setting time and Soundness of
cement.
4 Strength of Cement and Concrete: 38-47
Compressive strength of cement, Compressive
strength of concrete, and Split tensile strength of
concrete.
5 Workability of Concrete: 48-53
Slump Cone test, Compaction factor/Vee-Bee
consistometer tests.
6 NDT of Structures: 54-56
Non-destructive testing of concrete/structures by
rebound hammer, etc.
7 Tests on Aggregates: 57-62
Specific gravity of fine and coarse aggregates.
Specific Gravity and Water absorption of Coarse,
and Fine Aggregate
8 Tests on Aggregates: 63-68
Bulking of fine aggregate, Fineness modulus of
fine and coarse aggregates.
9 Tests on Bricks: 69-73
Compressive strength of bricks, and Water
absorption of bricks.
10 Project, Revision and Evaluation

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 EXPERIMENT NO. 1

1(A) DETERMINATION OF MOISTURE CONTENT BY OVEN DRY METHOD

OBJECTIVE: Determine the natural moisture content of the given soil sample by oven drying method.

STANDARDS:
1. Indian Standards : IS: 2720 (Part-2)
2. ASTM: D-2216
3. AASHTO: T-265
4. BS 812-109

DEFINITION:
The natural water content also called the natural moisture content is the ratio of the weight of water (pore or free)
to the weight of the solids in a given mass of soil. This ratio is usually expressed as percentage.

NEED AND SCOPE OF THE EXPERIMENT:

In almost all soil tests natural moisture content of the soil is to be determined. The knowledge of the natural
moisture content is essential in all studies of soil mechanics. To sight a few, natural moisture content is used in
determining the bearing capacity and settlement. The natural moisture content will give an idea of the state of
soil in the field. The consistency of a fine-grained soil largely depends on its water content. The water content is
also used in expressing the phase relationships of air, water, and solids in a given volume of soil.

APPARATUS REQUIRED:
1. Non-corrodible air-tight container.
2. Electric oven, maintain the temperature between 100 C to 1100 C.
3. Desiccator.
4. Balance with an accuracy of 0.01g.

PROCEDURE:
1. Clean the containers with lid dry it and weigh it (W1).

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 2. Take a specimen of the sample in the container and weigh with lid (W2).
3. Keep the container in the oven with lid . Dry the specimen to constant weight maintaining the
temperature between 1050 C to 1100 C for a period varying with the type of soil but usually 16 to 24
hours.
4. Record the final constant weight (W3) of the container with dried soil sample.

Figure 1: ELECTRIC OVEN

OBSERVATIONS AND RECORDING:
Table 1: Data and observation sheet for water content determination:

Sample No. 1 2 3

Can and Lid No

Weight of container with lid W1 gm

Weight of container with lid +wet

soil W2 gm
Weight of container with lid +dry
soil W3 gm
Moisture content =
W = [(W2-W3)/(W3-W1)]/100

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 INTERPRETATION AND REPORTING:
RESULT:
The natural moisture content of the soil sample is .

GENERAL REMARKS:
1. Peat and other organic soils are to be dried at lower temperature (say 600 C) possibly for a longer period.
2. Certain soils contain gypsum which on heating loses its water if crystallization. If it is suspected that
gypsum is present in the soil sample used for moisture content determination it shall be dried at not more
than 800 C and possibly for a longer time.

Name:

Registration No.

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 1(B) DETERMINATION OF SPECIFIC GRAVITY BY DENSITY BOTTLE METHOD

OBJECTIVE: Determine the specific gravity of soil fraction passing 4.75 mm I.S sieve by density bottle.

STANDARDS:
1. Indian Standards : IS: 2720 (Part-3-2)

2. ASTM: D-854

3. AASHTO: T-10

NEED AND SCOPE:

The knowledge of specific gravity is needed in calculation of soil properties like void ratio, degree of saturation
etc.

DEFINITION:
Specific gravity G is defined as the ratio of the weight of an equal volume of distilled water at that temperature
both weights taken in air.

APPARATUS REQUIRED:
1. Density bottle of 50 ml with stopper having capillary hole.
2. Balance to weigh the materials (accuracy 10gm).
3. Wash bottle with distilled water.
4. Alcohol and ether.

Figure 1: DENSITY BOTTLES

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 PROCEDURE:
1. Clean and dry the density bottle
a. Wash the bottle with water and allow it to drain.
b. Wash it with alcohol and drain it to remove water.
c. Wash it with ether, to remove alcohol and drain ether.
2. Weigh the empty bottle with stopper (W1)
3. Take about 10 to 20 gm of oven soil sample which is cooled in a desiccator. Transfer it to the bottle. Find
the weight of the bottle and soil (W2).
4. Put 10ml of distilled water in the bottle to allow the soil to soak completely. Leave it for about 2 hours.
5. Again fill the bottle completely with distilled water put the stopper and keep the bottle under constant
temperature water baths (Tx0).
6. Take the bottle outside and wipe it clean and dry note. Now determine the weight of the bottle and the
contents (W3).
7. Now empty the bottle and thoroughly clean it. Fill the bottle with only distilled water and weigh it. Let it
be W4 at temperature (Tx0 C).
8. Repeat the same process for 2 to 3 times, to take the average reading of it.

OBSERVATION TABLE:
S. No. Observation Number 1 2 3
1. Weight of density bottle (W1 g)

2. Weight of density bottle + dry soil

(W2 g)
3.
Weight of bottle + dry soil + water
4. 0
at temperature T x C (W3 g)

Weight of bottle + water (W4 g) at

0
temperature Tx C
0
Specific gravity G at Tx C
0
Average specific gravity at Tx C

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 CALCULATIONS:
𝑊2 − 𝑊1
𝐺= ∗ 𝐺𝐿
(𝑊4 − 𝑊1) − (𝑊3 − 𝑊2)
where,
GL= specific gravity of the liquid used, at the constant temperature.

INTERPRETATION AND REPORTING:

Unless or otherwise specified specific gravity values reported shall be based on water at 270C. So the specific
gravity at 270C = K*Specific gravity at T x0C.
The specific gravity of the soil particles lies within the range of 2.65 to 2.85. Soils containing organic matter and
porous particles may have specific gravity values below 2.0. Soils having heavy substances may have values
above 3.0.

Name:

Registration No.:

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 EXPERIMENT NO. 2

2(A) PARTICLE SIZE ANALYSIS OF SOIL BY SIEVE ANALYSIS

OBJECTIVE:
1. Select sieves as per I.S specifications and perform sieving.
2. Obtain percentage of soil retained on each sieve.
3. Draw graph between log grain size of soil and % finer.

STANDARDS:
1. Indian Standards: IS: 2720 (Part-4)
2. ASTM: D-421
3. AASHTO: T-87, T-88

NEED AND SCOPE OF THE EXPERIMENT:

The grain size analysis is widely used in classification of soils. The data obtained from grain size distribution
curves is used in the design of filters for earth dams and to determine suitability of soil for road construction, air
field etc. Information obtained from grain size analysis can be used to predict soil water movement although
permeability tests are more generally used.

APPARATUS:
1. Balance
2. I.S sieves
3. Rubber pestle and mortar.
4. Mechanical Sieve Shaker
The grain size analysis is an attempt to determine the relative proportions of different grain sizes which make up
a given soil mass.

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 Figure 1: SIEVE SHAKER

Minimum Mass of Soil for Sieve Analysis (IS 2720 –Part-4 1985)

Maximum size of the largest 75 40 25 19 12.5 10 6.5 4.75

grain present in appreciable
quantities (mm)

Min. mass of soil sample 60 25 13 6.5 3.5 1.5 0.75 0.4

(kg)

KNOWLEDGE OF EQUIPMENT:
1. The balance to be used must be sensitive to the extent of 0.1% of total weight of sample taken.
2. IS 460-1962 are to used. The sieves for soil tests: 4.75 mm to 75 microns.

PROCEDURE:
1. For soil samples of soil retained on 75 micron I.S sieve
a. I.S sieves are selected and arranged in the order as shown in the table.
b. Pour the soil into the stack of sieves from the top and place cover on the top.
c. The stack of sieves are placed on sieve shaker and sieved for 10 to 15 minutes. The sample is
separated into various fractions by sieving through above sieves placed on the sieve shaker.
d. The weight of soil retained on each sieve is recorded.

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 e. The moisture content of soil if above 5% it is to be measured and recorded.
2. No particle of soil sample shall be pushed through the sieves.

OBSERVATIONS AND RECORDING:

Weight of soil sample:
Moisture content1:
I.S sieve Mass Percentage Cumulative % finer Remarks
size in mm Retained retained on %age 100- Mn
in each each sieve, retained on
sieve (g) each sieve
Mn Mn
4.75
2
1
0.6
0.3
0.212
0.15
0.075
Pan

1
If the moisture content is more than 5%, then the weights are to be normalized.

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 CALCULATION:
The percentage of soil retained on each sieve shall be calculated on the basis of total weight of soil sample taken.

1. Cumulative percentage of soil retained on successive sieve is found and the % finer is defined as
cumulative % retained.

GRAPH:
Draw graph between sieve sizes vs. % finer on a semi-log sheet as shown in figure. The graph is known as
grading curve. Corresponding to 10%, 30% and 60% finer, obtain diameters from graph designated as D10, D30
and D60 respectively. Also find out D15, D50 and D85.

Figure 2: Grain size distribution curve

Permeability K = CD 102 and compare the constants

QUESTIONNAIRE:
1. Write two sentences on the grain size distribution curve in line with statistics.
2. Based on the grain size distribution curve, what is the gradation of soil?
3. Will gradation of the soil depend upon the shape of the particle?

Name:

Registration No.:

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 2(B) PARTICLE SIZE ANALYSIS OF SOIL BY HYDROMETER ANALYSIS

OBJECTIVE: Grain size analysis of soils by hydrometer analysis test.

STANDARDS:
1. Indian Standards : IS: 2720 (Part-4)

2. ASTM: D-422

3. AASHTO: T-87, T-88

NEED AND SCOPE OF THE EXPERIMENT:

For determining the grain size distribution of soil sample, usually mechanical analysis (sieve analysis) is carried
out in which the finer sieve used is 63 micron or the nearer opening. If a soil contains appreciable quantities of
fine fractions in (less than 63 micron) wet analysis is done. One form of the analysis is hydrometer analysis. It is
very much helpful to classify the soil as per IS classification. The properties of the soil are very much influenced
by the amount of clay and other fractions.

APPARATUS:
1. Hydrometer
2. Glass measuring cylinder-Two of 1000 ml capacity with ground glass or rubber stoppers about 7 cm
diameter and 33 cm high marked at 1000 ml volume.
3. Thermometer- To cover the range 0 to 50o C with an accuracy of 0.5o C.
4. Water bath.
5. Stirring apparatus.
6. I.S sieves apparatus.
7. Balance-accurate to 0.01 gm.
8. Oven-105 o C to 110 o C.
9. Stop watch.
10. Desiccators
11. Centimeter scale.
12. Porcelain evaporating dish.

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 13. Wide mouth conical flask or conical beaker of 1000 ml capacity.
14. Thick funnel- about 10 cm in diameter.
15. Filter flask- to take the funnel.
16. Measuring cylinder-100 ml capacity.
17. Wash bottle-containing distilled water.
18. Filter papers.
19. Glass rod-about 15 to 20 cm long and 4 to 5 mm in diameter.
20. Hydrogen peroxide- 20 volume solution.
21. Hydrochloric acid N solution- 89 ml of concentrated hydrochloric acid (specific gravity 1.18) diluted with
distilled water one liter of solution.
22. Sodium hexametaphosphate solution- dissolve 33 g of sodium hexametaphosphate and 7 g of sodium
carbonate in distilled water to make 1liter of solution.

Figure 1: HYDROMETER AND STIRRING APPARATUS

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 CALIBRATION OF HYDROMETER:

Volume:

a) Volume of water displaced: Approximately 800 ml of water shall be poured in the 1000 ml measuring
cylinder. The reading of the water level shall be observed and recorded. The hydrometer shall be
immersed in the water and the level shall again be observed and recorded as the volume of the
hydrometer bulb in ml plus volume of that part of the stem that is submerged. For practical purposes the
error to the inclusion of this stem volume may be neglected.
b) From the weight of the hydrometer: The hydrometer shall be weighed to the nearest 0.1 g. The weight
in ‘g’ shall be recorded as the volume of the bulb plus the volume of the stem below the 1000 ml
graduation mark. For practical purposes the error due to the inclusion of this stem may be neglected.

Calibration:

a) The sectional area of the 1000 ml measuring cylinder in which the hydrometer is to used shall be
determined by measuring the distance between the graduations. The sectional area is equal to the volume
included between the two graduations divided by the measured distance between them.
b) Place the hydrometer on the paper and sketch it. On the sketch note the lowest and highest readings which
are on the hydrometer and also mark the neck of the bulb. Mark the center of the bulb which is half of the
distance between neck of the bulb and tip of the bulb.
c) The distance from the lowest reading to the center of the bulb is (Rh) shall be recorded
d) (Rh =H1 + h/2).
e) The distance from the highest hydrometer reading to the center of the bulb shall be measured and
recorded.
f) Draw a graph between Rh vs He. A straight line is obtained. This calibration curve is then used to calibrate
the hydrometer readings which are taken within 2 minutes.
g) From 4 minutes onwards the readings are to be taken by immersing the hydrometer each time. This
makes the soil solution to rise, there by raising distance of free fall of the particle. So correction is applied
to the hydrometer readings.
h) Correction is applied (meniscus, dispersing agent and temperature) to the Rh and He.

18𝜂 ∗ 𝐻𝑒(𝑐𝑚)
𝐷(𝑐𝑚) = √
(𝛾𝑠 − 𝛾𝑤) ∗ 60𝑡(min)
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 Vh = Volume of hydrometer bulb in ml.

A = Area of measuring cylinder in cm2.

1 𝑉ℎ
From these two corrected readings draw graph (straight line) 𝐻𝑒 = 𝐻1 + (ℎ − )
2 𝐴

Figure 2: Calibration curve of Hydrometer

Figure 3: Hydrometer analysis

Date:
Total mass of dry soil taken, M =
Mass of dry soil passing through 2 mm sieve, M’=
Specific Gravity of soil, G =

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 Hydrometer No. Wt. of soil gone into solution, Md =
Meniscus correction, Cm = Dispersion agent correction, cd =
Reading in water RW =
Temperature correction, CT =
100×G
% finer for wt. of soil Md gone into solution, N = × Rh
{Md×(G−1)}

Figure 4: Grain size classification scales

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 OBSERVATION TABLE:
Time Elapsed Rh’ Cm Cd Rh D Factor N’ N (% finer based
Time t Corrected (mm) F (% on
(min) finer whole, N
based 𝑀′
= 𝑁′
on 𝑀
Md )

0.5

10

15

20

30

45

60

90

120

240

480

1440

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 Table 1: Values of F or R
VALUES OF F or R FOR USE IN FORMULA FOR COMPUTING DIAMETER OF PARTICLE
(Dmm) IN HYDROMETER ANALYSIS
Temp. Specific Gravity
in OC 2.50 2.55 2.60 2.65 2.70 2.75 2.80
15 0.01528 0.01503 0.01479 0.01458 0.01435 0.01414 0.01395
16 0.01508 0.01483 0.01460 0.01438 0.01417 0.01396 0.01377
17 0.01490 0.01465 0.01442 0.01420 0.01399 0.01379 0.01360
18 0.01470 0.01446 0.01406 0.01402 0.01381 0.01361 0.01342
19 0.01452 0.01428 0.01389 0.01384 0.01364 0.01344 0.01325
20 0.01434 0.01411 0.01372 0.01367 0.01347 0.01328 0.01309
21 0.01417 0.01393 0.01355 0.01351 0.01331 0.01311 0.01294
22 0.01400 0.01377 0.01339 0.01335 0.01315 0.01296 0.01278
23 0.01383 0.01360 0.01323 0.01318 0.01299 0.01280 0.01262
24 0.01367 0.01344 0.01308 0.01305 0.01284 0.01265 0.01248
25 0.01351 0.01329 0.01293 0.01288 0.01269 0.01251 0.01233
26 0.01335 0.01313 0.01279 0.01273 0.01254 0.01236 0.01219
27 0.01321 0.01299 0.01264 0.01244 0.01241 0.01224 0.01191
28 0.01305 0.01284 0.01250 0.01231 0.01226 0.01069 0.01178
29 0.01291 0.01270 0.01236 0.01217 0.01213 0.01208 0.01165
30 0.01277 0.01256 0.01224 0.01205 0.01199 0.01195 0.01154
31 0.01264 0.01243 0.01211 0.01193 0.01187 0.01182 0.01142
32 0.01251 0.01230 0.01195 0.01180 0.01175 0.01170 0.01130
33 0.01238 0.01218 0.01186 0.01168 0.01163 0.01158 0.01118
34 0.01225 0.01205 0.01174 0.01156 0.01151 0.01146 0.01107
35 0.01212 0.01191 0.01161 0.01144 0.01139 0.01134 0.01095
36 0.01199 0.01180 0.01150 0.01139 0.01127 0.01120 0.01084
37 0.01188 0.01169 0.01139 0.01122 0.01116 0.01110 0.01064
38 0.01176 0.01157 0.01128 0.01110 0.01105 0.01100 0.01064
39 0.01165 0.01146 0.01118 0.01101 0.01094 0.01089 0.01055
40 0.01155 0.01136 0.01108 0.01092 0.01084 0.01079 0.01045

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 Table 2: Relationship between Zr and Rh values of hydrometer
CALIBRATION OF HYDROMETER
Reading of the Hydrometer Zr value without volume Zrc =Zr + Ch for use beyond 4
RH = R’H + CN correction Ch for use up to 4 minutes
minutes
1 2 3
0.995 21.655 20.500
0.996 21.355 20.200
0.997 21.055 19.900
0.998 20.755 19.600
0.999 20.455 19.300
1.000 20.155 19.000
1.001 19.855 18.700
1.002 19.555 18.400
1.003 19.255 18.100
1.004 18.955 17.800
1.005 18.655 17.500
1.006 18.355 17.200
1.007 18.055 16.900
1.008 17.755 16.600
1.009 17.455 16.300
1.010 17.155 16.000
1.011 16.855 15.700
1.012 16.555 15.400
1.013 16.255 15.100
1.014 15.955 14.800
1.015 15.655 14.500
1.016 15.355 14.200
1.017 15.055 13.900
1.018 14.755 13.600
1.019 14.455 13.300
1.020 14.155 13.000
1.021 13.855 12.700

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 1.022 13.555 12.400
1.023 13.255 12.100
1.024 12.955 11.800
1.025 12.655 11.500
1.026 12.355 11.200
1.027 12.055 10.900
1.028 11.755 10.600
1.029 11.455 10.300
1.030 11.155 10.000

Table 3: Values of Effective Depth on Hydrometer and Sedimentation Cylinder of Specified Sizes
Hydrometer 151H Hydrometer 152H

Hydrometer Effective Hydrometer Effective Hydrometer Effective

reading depth L, cm reading depth L, cm reading depth L, cm

1 16.3 0 16.3 31 11.2

1.001 16 1 16.1 32 11.1
1.002 15.8 2 16 33 10.9
1.003 15.5 3 15.8 34 10.7
1.004 15.2 4 15.6 35 10.6
1.005 15 5 15.5 36 10.4
1.006 14.7 6 15.3 37 10.2
1.007 14.4 7 15.2 38 10.1
1.008 14.2 8 15 39 9.9
1.009 13.9 9 14.8 40 9.7
1.01 13.7 10 14.7 41 9.6
1.011 13.4 11 14.5 42 9.4
1.012 13.1 12 14.3 43 9.2
1.013 12.9 13 14.2 44 9.1
1.014 12.6 14 14 45 8.9
1.015 12.3 15 13.8 46 8.8
1.016 12.1 16 13.7 47 8.6
1.017 11.8 17 13.5 48 8.4

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 1.018 11.5 18 13.3 49 8.3
1.019 11.3 19 13.2 50 8.1
1.02 11 20 13 51 7.9
1.021 10.7 21 12.9 52 7.8
1.022 10.5 22 12.7 53 7.6
1.023 10.2 23 12.5 54 7.4
1.024 10 24 12.4 55 7.3
1.025 9.7 25 12.2 56 7.1
1.026 9.4 26 12 57 7
1.027 9.2 27 11.9 58 6.8
1.028 8.9 28 11.7 59 6.6
1.029 8.6 29 11.5 60 6.5
1.03 8.4 30 11.4
1.031 8.1
1.032 7.8
1.033 7.6
1.034 7.3
1.035 7
1.036 6.8
1.037 6.5
1.038 6.2
1.039 5.9

Table 4: Correction Factor for Variation in Specific Gravity of water due to Temperature
Temperature C K27 Temperature C K27

15 1.0026 28 0.9997
16 1.0024 29 0.9994
17 1.0023 30 0.9991
18 1.0021 31 0.9988
19 1.0019 32 0.9985
20 1.0017 33 0.9982

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 21 1.0015 34 0.9979
22 1.0013 35 0.9975
23 1.001 36 0.9972
24 1.0008 37 0.9968
25 1.0005 38 0.9964
26 1.0003 39 0.9961
27 1 40 0.9957

Table 5: Variation of ht / h27

Temperature 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22

ht / h27 1.336 1.301 1.268 1.237 1.206 1.177 1.149 1.122

Temperature 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
ht / h27 1.096 1.071 1.046 1.023 1.000 0.979 0.958 0.938

GENERAL OBSERVATION:
Depending upon the soil as acidic or basic the anticoagulant chemicals has to be different.
The basis of the grain size as per mechanical sieving and as per hydrometer analysis.

RESULT:
Cu =
Cc =

Figure 5: Grain size analysis of both sieve and hydrometer analysis

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 QUESTIONNAIRE:
1. For a soil, if a particular particle size is measure using sieve analysis and hydrometer, the results will be
same or different? Explain it.

Name:

Registration No.:

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 EXPERIMENT NO. 3

3(A) SPECIFIC GRAVITY OF CEMENT

OBJECTIVE: To determine the specific gravity of cement.

APPARATUS:
1. Le Chatelier Flask – Standard Le-Chatelier flask conforming to the IS: 4031, (Fig 9)
2. Analytical Balance – Electronic balance of accuracy + 0.1 g shall be used.

MATERIAL:
Kerosene, free of water having a specific gravity not less than 0.731 shall be used in the specific gravity
determination

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:
The temperature of the room during the test shall be maintained at 27 + 20C.

STEPS:
1. The flask shall be filled with kerosene to a point on the stem between the zero and the 1-ml mark. The
inside of the flask above the level of the liquid shall be dried
2. The first reading shall be recorded. ( V1)
3. A weighed quantity of cement W, (about 65 g for Portland cement) shall then be introduced in small
amounts at the same temperature as the liquid. Care shall be taken to avoid splashing and to see that the
cement does not adhere to the inside of the flask above the liquid.
4. After all the cement has been introduced, the stopper shall be placed in the flask and the flask rolled in an
inclined position or gently whirled in a horizontal circle. So as to free the cement from air until no further
air bubbles rise to the surface of the liquid. If a proper amount of cement has been added, the level of the
liquid will be in its final position at some point of the upper series of graduations.
5. The final reading shall be taken.( V2)
6. The flask shall be kept in a constant temperature room, for a sufficient interval before making either of
the readings so as to avoid variations greater than 0.20C in the temperature of the liquid in the flask.

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 Figure 1: LE-CHATELIER FLASK
OBSERVATIONS:
a) Weight of empty dry bottle (W1) =
b) Weight of bottle + water (W2 ) =
c) Weight of bottle + kerosene (W3) =
d) Weight of bottle + cement + kerosene (W4)=
e) Weight of cement (W5)=
Specific Gravity of Kerosene = g = (W3-W1) / (W2-W1)

Specific Gravity of cement = g x W5/ (W5 + W3 – W4)

QUESTIONNAIRE:
1. State the importance of the test?
2. What is effect on the specific gravity value if the air bubbles are not removed completely?
3. Why constant temperature bath is used in the experiment?
4. Define Specific Gravity.
GENERAL REMARKS:

Name:
Registration No.:

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 3(B) FINENESS OF CEMENT

OBJECTIVE: To determine the fineness of cement.

STANDARDS:
1. IS CODE: 4031 (PART 1)-1996

APPARATUS:
1. Wire Cloth test sieve of Nominal aperture size 90micron confirming to IS: 460
2. Balance – Analytical balance capable of reproducing results within 0.0002 g m with an accuracy of
±0.0002 gm.
3. A nylon or pure bristle brush for cleaning the sieves

STEPS:
1. Break Down any air set lumps in the cement sample with fingers and mix it uniformly
2. Weigh 100gm(W) of cement
3. Place it on clean and dry 90micron sieve with pan attached
4. Sieve the sample manually or in the sieve shaker for 15 minutes.
5. After completion of sieving clean the underside of sieve with brush and collect the residue in pan
6. Weigh the residue left in the sieve (W1)

Figure 1: IS SIEVE 90 MICRON

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 CALCULATIONS:
Calculate the mass of cement retained on 90Micron as percent of original mass.
% Retained = (W1/W)*100

RESULT:
Residue of cement is ................. percent.

QUESTIONNAIRE:
1. What is fineness of cement? State the IS specifications for fineness of cement in terms of its specific
surface (Sq.cm./gm)?
2. What is the importance of this test?
3. How is the fineness expressed when using the IS 90 micron Sieve?
4. What effect does the additional fineness expressed when using the IS 90 micron Sieve?

GENERAL REMARKS:

Name:

Registration No.:

27 | P a g e
 3(C) CONSISTENCY OF CEMENT

OBJECTIVE: To determine the standard consistency of cement

STANDARDS:
1. IS CODE: 4031 (PART 4)-1988

APPARATUS:
1. Vicat apparatus conforming to IS: 5513-1996 with 10 mm diameter plunger.
2. Gauging trowel, Measuring Jar (100 to 200 ml), Weighing balance, glass plate.

STEPS:
The standard consistency of a cement paste is defined as that consistency which will permit the Vicat plunger to
penetrate to a point 5 to 7 mm from the bottom of the Vicat mould.
1. Prepare a paste of weighed quantity of cement (400gm) with a weighed quantity of water, (start at 25%
by wt. of cement) at an interval of 2%, taking care that the time of gauging is not less than 3 minutes, or
not more than 5min, and the gauging shall be completed before any signs of setting occur. The gauging
time shall be counted from the time of adding water to the dry cement until commencing to fill the mould.
2. Fill the Vicat mould with this paste, the mould resting upon surface of the paste, making it level with the
top of the mould. The mould may be slightly shaken to expel the air.
3. Clean appliances shall be used for gauging and the temperature of cement and water and that of the test
room, at the time when the above operations are being performed shall be from 27 + 20C.
4. In filling the mould, the operator’s hands and the blade of the gauging trowel shall alone be used. The
trowel shall weigh 210 + 10g.
5. Place the test block in the mould, together with the non-porous testing plate, under the rod bearing the
plunger, lower the plunger gently to touch the surface of the test block, and quickly release, allowing it to
sink into the paste. The operation shall be carried out immediately after filling the mould. Prepare trial
pastes with varying percentages of water and test as described above until the amount of water necessary
for making up the standard consistency. Express the amount of water as a percentage by weight of the dry
cement.

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 OBSERVATIONS AND CALCULATIONS:
No. of Trials Percentage of Initial Reading Final Reading Height Penetrated (mm)
Water

RESULTS:
Standard Consistency of Cement is ...................percent.

Cap

Movable Rod

Indicator
Plunger

Frame
Needle
Cylindrical
Mould

Nonporous
Plate

Figure 1: VICAT APPARATUS

GENERAL REMARKS:

Name:
Registration No.:

29 | P a g e
 3(D) INITIAL AND FINAL SETTING TIME OF CEMENT

OBJECTIVE: To determine the initial and final setting time of cement.

STANDARDS:
1. IS CODE: 4031 (PART 5)-1988

APPARATUS:
1. Vicat Apparatus – Vicat apparatus shall conform to IS: 5513-1996.
2. Balance –The balance shall have permissible variation of + 0.1 g. at a load of 1000 g.
3. Gauging Trowel – Gauging trowel. Shall conform to IS 10086-1982.
4. Measuring Cylinder
5. Stop Watch

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITION:
The temperature of the room and materials shall preferably be maintained at 27+ 20C.

STEPS:
A. Preparation of Test Block –
1. Take 400 gm of cement and add water to it (0.85 times the water required to give a paste of standard
consistency.)
2. Start a stopwatch at the instant when water is added to the cement.
3. Mix thoroughly taking care that time of gauging is not less than 3 minutes and not more than 05
minutes.
4. Fill the Vicat mould resting on a nonporous plate completely and smooth off the surface of the paste
making it level with the top of the mould. The cement block thus prepared in the mould is the test
block.
B. Determination of Initial Setting Time –
1. Place the test block confined in the mould and resting on the non-porous plate, under the rod bearing
the initial setting needle.

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 2. Lower the needle gently until it comes in contact with the surface of the test block and quickly
release, allowing it to penetrate into the test block. In the beginning, the needle will completely pierce
the block.
3. Repeat this procedure until the needle, when brought in contact with the test block and released as
described above, fail to pierce the block beyond 5.0 mm measured from the bottom of the mould.
4. The period elapsing between the time when water is added to the cement and the time at which the
needle fails to pierce the test block to a point 5.0 mm measured from the bottom of the mould shall be
the initial setting time.

C. Determination of Final Setting Time

1. Replace the initial setting needle of the Vicat apparatus by the final setting needle with an annular
attachment.
2. Lower the needle gently until it comes in contact with the surface of the test block and quickly release
3. The cement shall be considered as finally set when, upon applying the needle gently to the surface of
the test block, the needle makes an impression thereon, while the attachment fails to do so.
4. The period elapsing between the times when water is added to the cement and
5. Time at which the needle makes an impression on the surface of test block while the attachment fails
to do so shall be the final setting time. The results of initial and final setting time shall be reported to
the nearest five minutes.

OBSERVATIONS AND CALCULATIONS:

No. of Time in Initial Reading Final Reading Height Penetrated
Trials Minutes (mm)

RESULTS:
Initial setting time of Cement is .................. minutes.

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 Final setting time of Cement is .................. minutes.

Initial Final
Setting Setting
Needle Needle

Figure 1: VICAT APPARATUS

QUESTIONNAIRE:
1. What do you understand by the term ‘Standard consistency, initial setting time and final setting
time of a cement sample?
2. What is the importance of the above three tests?
3. What precautions do you observe in performing the above?

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 4. What are the IS specifications for setting times of various types of cements recommended for use
on a construction site?
5. What is the amount of water required for initial setting time?
6. How is the rate of setting of Portland cement controlled in manufacturing process?
7. What is the difference between setting and hardening?

GENERAL REMARKS:

Name:

Registration No.:

33 | P a g e
 3(E) SOUNDNESS OF CEMENT

I. BY LE-CHATELIER METHOD

OBJECTIVE: To determine the soundness of cement

APPARATUS:
1. Le-Chatelier Mould – The apparatus conducting the Le-Chatelier test shall conform to IS: 5514 as
shown in figure -1.
2. Balance – The Balance shall conform to the permissible variation of + 1.0 g, at a load of 1000 g.
3. Water Bath – Water bath with means of heating, capable of containing immersed Le-Chatelier mould
with specimens and of raising their temperature from 27 + 20C to boiling in 25 to 30 minutes.

ENVIRONMENTAL COMDITIONS:
The temperature of the gauging room, dry materials and water shall be maintained at 27 + 20C. The relative
humidity of the laboratory shall be 65 + 5percent. The humidity chamber shall be maintained at 27 + 20C and at a
relative humidity of not less than 90 percent.

STEPS:
1. Place the lightly oiled mould on a lightly oiled glass sheet and fill it with cement paste formed by
gauging cement with 0.78 times the water required to give a paste of standard consistency, taking
care to keep the edges of the mould gently together while this operation is being performed.
2. Cover the mould with another piece of lightly oiled glass sheet, place a small weight on this covering
glass sheet and immediately submerge the whole assembly in water at a temperature of 27 + 20C and
keep there for 24 hours.
3. Measure the distance separating the indicator points to the nearest 0.5 mm.
4. Submerge the mould again in water at the temperature prescribed above. Bring the water to boiling, with
the mould kept submerged, in 25 to 30 minutes, and keep it boiling for three hours.
5. Remove the mould from the water, allow it to cool and measure the distance between the indicator points.
6. The difference between these two measurements indicates the expansion of the cement.

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 Glass Plate
Brass mould

Figure 1: LE-CHTELIER MOULD

CALCULATION:
Calculate the mean of two values to the nearest 0.5 mm to represent the expansion of cement.

RETEST:
In the event of cement failing to meet the test for soundness, a retest may be made after aeration. For this
purpose, spread out the cement in a layer of 75 mm thickness and store it for 7 days in an atmosphere maintained
at 27 + 20C and relative humidity of 50 to 80 percent. Retest this cement as described in above steps.

Name:

Registration No.:

35 | P a g e
 II. BY AUTOCLAVE METHOD

APPARATUS:
1. Balance – The Balance shall conform to the permissible variation of + 1.0 g, at a load of 1000 g.
2. Graduated Glass Cylinders f 150ml capacity with permissible variation of ±one ml.
3. Mould of 25*25mm size and 282mm internal length and other accessories confirming to IS10086-
1982
4. Autoclave: - consisting of high pressure steam boiler equipped with suitable safety device
confirming to requirements of Clause 6.1.5 of IS 4031 (Part 3)
5. Length Comparator confirming to IS9456-1980

STEPS:
Preparation of Mould:-
1. Cover the mould thinly with Mould oil
2. Set the stainless steel metal reference inserts to obtain effective gauge length of 250 mm, taking
care to keep them clean and free from oil
3. Take 500 gm of cement
4. Add amount of water equal to that obtained for preparing paste of standard consistency.
5. Immediately after completion of mixing pour the paste into moulds in two layer.
6. Compact each layer with thumb or finger by pressing the paste into corners around the reference inserts
and along the surface of mould
7. After compaction of Top layer flush the paste off with top of mould and smooth the surface with few
strokes of trowel.
8. After filling the moulds Store them immediately in moist closet or moist room for at least 24 hrs.

Autoclaving:-
1. Pour water in the shell of vessel up to a height of 125-150mm from bottom of the shell.
2. Remove specimen from moist room at 24±1/2 hrs, measure the length of specimen and place it in
rack of autoclave at room temp.
3. Switch the autoclave on while allowing air to escape from autoclave during early heating by
keeping the release bulb of the equipment open.

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 4. Moment air is bled out and steam starts coming close the release bulb.
5. Allow temp to increase until a pressure of 2.1±0.1is attained.
6. Maintain this pressure for 3hrs and after end of this period bring the autoclave to cool down to
ambient temperature.
7. After attaining the ambient temp. Release the entrapped steam from the shell.
8. Remove the test specimen and place them in water, the temp of which is already above 90 oc.
9. Cool down the temp of water in 15 Minutes to 27±2oc by adding water and maintain this temp for
15 minutes.
10. Remove the specimen and measure the length of surface dried specimens.

CALCULATIONS:
The difference in length of specimen before and after autoclaving shall be expressed to 0.01% of
effective gauge length.
Prefixing negative sign to the % expansion reported shall indicate a contraction.
Soundness of cement = L1-L2 (expressed as percentage of effective gauge length).

QUESTIONNAIRE:
1. What do you mean by soundness of cement?
2. What is the diameter of Le-chatelier apparatus?
3. What is meant by unsoundness and how it is caused?
4. What is the maximum expansion for Ordinary Portland Cement?

GENERAL REMARKS:

Name:

Registration No.:

37 | P a g e
 EXPERIMENT NO. 4

4(A) COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF CEMENT

OBJECTIVE: To determine the compressive strength of cement.

APPARATUS:
1. Vibration Machine – Vibration machine shall conform to IS: 10080. Schematic diagram of mortar
vibration machine and poking rod is shown in figure-1of IS4031.
2. Poking Rod – Poking rod shall conform to IS: 10080
3. Cube Mould – The mould shall be of 70.6 mm size conforming to IS: 10080.
4. Gauging Trowel – The gauging trowel shall conform to IS: 10086
5. Balance – The balance shall conform to the permissible variation of + 1.0 g at a load of 1000 g.
6. Graduated Glass Cylinders – The graduated glass cylinders shall conform to the permissible variation
of + 1.0 ml at a volume of 150 to 200 ml capacity.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:
The temperature of the gauging room, dry materials and water shall be maintained at 27 + 20C. The relative
humidity of the laboratory shall be 65 + 5 percent.
The humidity chamber shall be maintained at 27 + 20C and at a relative humidity of not less than 90 percent.

STANDARD SAND:
The Standard sand to be used in the test shall conform to IS: 650.

PREPARATION OF TEST SPECIMENS:

1. Mix Proportions and Mixing – Clean appliances shall be used for mixing and the temperature of
water and that of the test room at the time when the above operations are being performed shall be
27 + 20C. Potable/distilled water shall be used in preparing the cubes.
2. The material for each cube shall be mixed separately and the quantity of cement, standard sand
and water shall be as follows:
Cement = 200 g

38 | P a g e
 Standard Sand = 600g (200 gm of each grade)
Water = (P / 4 +3.0) x weight of cement and sand in gm/100.
Where P is the percentage of water required to produce a paste of standard consistency).
3. Place on a nonporous plate, a mixture of cement and standard sand. Mix it dry with a trowel for one
minute and then with weighed quantity of water until the mixture is of uniform color. The time of mixing
shall in any event be not less than 3 min and should the time to obtain a uniform colour exceed 4 min.

MOULDING SPECIMENS:
1. In assembling the moulds ready for use, cover the joints between the halves of the mould with a thin film
of petroleum jelly and apply a similar coating of petroleum jelly between the contact surfaces of the
bottom of the mould and its base plate in order to ensure that no water escapes during vibration. Treat the
interior faces of the mould with a thin coating of mould oil.
2. Place the assembled mould on the table of the vibration machine and hold it firmly in position by means
of a suitable clamp. Attach a hopper of suitable size and shape securely at the top of the mould to
facilitate filling and this hopper shall not be removed until the completion of the vibration period.
3. Immediately after mixing the mortar in accordance with place the mortar in the cube mould and prod with
the poking rod. The mortar shall be prodded 20 times in about 8 sec to ensure elimination of entrained air
and honeycombing. Place the remaining quantity of mortar in the hopper of the cube mould and prod
again as specified for the first layer and then compact the mortar by vibration.
4. The period of vibration shall be two minutes at the specified speed of 12000 + 400 vibrations per minute.
5. At the end of vibration, remove the mould together with the base plate from the machine and finish the
top surface of the cube in the mould by smoothing the surface with the blade of a trowel.

CURING SPECIMEN:
Keep the filled moulds in humidity chamber for 24 hours after completion of vibration. At the end of that period,
remove them from the moulds and immediately submerge in clean fresh water and keep there until taken out just
prior to breaking. The water in which the cubes are submerged shall be renewed every 7 days and shall be
maintained at a temperature of 27 + 20C. After they have been taken out and until they are broken, the cubes shall
not be allowed to become dry.

39 | P a g e
 TESTING:
1. Test three cubes for compressive strength for each sample, for a period of curing 3-days, 7-days &
28-days.
2. The cubes shall be tested on their sides without any packing between the cube and the steel plates
of the testing machine. One of the platens shall be carried on a base and shall be self-adjusting and
the load shall be steadily and uniformly applied, starting from zero at a rate of 2.9kN/sec.

CALCULATION:
The measured compressive strength of the cubes shall be calculated by dividing the maximum load applied to the
cubes during the test by the cross-sectional area, calculated from the mean dimensions of the section and shall be
expressed to the nearest 1kg/cm2.
In determining the compressive strength, do not consider specimens that give strengths differing by more than 10
percent from the average value of all the test specimens. After discarding specimens or strength values, if less
than two strength values are left for determining the compressive strength at any given period, a retest shall be
made.

Figure 1: MOULD

QUESTIONNAIRE:
1. What is the percentage of water required for preparing 1: 3 cement sand mortar for compressive
strength test?
2. What is the significance of this test?
3. What are the IS specifications for compressive strength of 1: 3 cement sand mortar after 3 days
and 7 days?
4. What is the minimum number of specimens to be made for each age of testing?
5. How is the curing of a test specimen done?
6. Why should not the specimen be allowed to dry until they are tested?

40 | P a g e
 7. What is the rate of loading?
8. How can you be sure that the cement and sand are thoroughly mixed?
9. Is it true that the cement, sand and water are mixed together?

GENERAL REMARKS:

Name:

Registration No.:

41 | P a g e
 4(B) DETERMINATION OF COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF CONCRETE

OBJECTIVE: To determine the compressive strength of concrete specimen.

APPARATUS:

The testing machine shall be of reliable type, of sufficient capacity for the tests and capable of applying the load
at the rate of 140 kg/cm2. The permissible rate shall be not greater than +2 percent of the maximum load. The
testing machine shall be equipped with two steel bearing platens with hardened faces. One of the platens
(preferably the one that normally will bear on the upper surface of the specimen) shall be fitted with a ball
seating in the form of a portion of a sphere, the center of which coincides with the central point of the face of the
platen. The other compression platen shall be plain rigid bearing block. The bearing faces of both platen shall be
at least as large as, and preferably larger than the nominal platens, when new, shall not depart from a plan by
more than 0.01mm at any point, and they shall be maintained with a permissible variation limit of 0.02mm. The
movable portion of the spherically seated compression platen shall be held on the spherical seat, but the design
shall be such that the bearing face can be rotated freely and tilted through small angles in any direction.

Age at test:
Test shall be conducted at recognized ages of the test specimens, the more common being 7 and 28 days.
Where necessary for obtaining early strengths, tests may be carried out at the ages of 24 hours + ½ hour and 72
hours + 2 hours. The age shall be calculated from the time of addition of water to the dry ingredients.

Number of specimen:
At least three specimens shall be made for testing at each specified age.

PROCEDURE:
Specimen stored in water should be tested immediately on removal from water and while they are still in the wet
condition. Wet condition also maintained by covering the specimens with wet burlap.

The bearing surfaces of the machine shall be wiped clean and dry loose sand or other material removed from the
surfaces of the specimen which are to be in contact with the compression plates. In case of the cubes, the
specimen is placed in the machine in such a manner that the load shall be applied to opposite sides of the cubes

42 | P a g e
 as cast that is, not to the top and bottom. The axis of the specimen shall be carefully aligned with the center of
thrust of the test specimen and the steel platen of the testing machine. The pace rate shall be set to 5.2KN/second
for 15cm cube and 4.0KN/seconds for 15cm diameter cylinder, to uniformly load the specimen. The load shall be
applied without shock, and increased continuously until the resistance of the specimen to the increasing load
breaks down and no greater load can be sustained. The maximum load applied to the specimen shall then be
recorded and the appearance of the concrete and any unusual features in the type of failure shall be noted.

Figure 1: COMPRESSION TESTING MACHINE

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 OBSERVATION:
Sl. Weight Dimension Failure Load Compressive Average
No. (kg) (mm) (kN) Strength (MPa)

CALCULATION:
The measured compressive strength of the specimen should be calculated by dividing the maximum
load applied to the specimen during the test by the cross-sectional area, which is calculated from the mean
dimensions of the section & should be expressed to the nearest kg per sq. cm. Average of three values should
be taken as the representative provided the individual variation is not more than + 15% of the average
otherwise repeat tests shall be made.

QUESTIONNAIRE:

1. State the importance of compressive strength test.

2. What are the different types of standard test specimens?
3. State the minimum number of tests to be conducted for each batch.
4. State the sequence of mixing ingredients of concrete by
5. (1)Hand mixing (2) Mechanical mixer?
6. Why are the moulds are oiled before use?
7. State the methods of compacting concrete in the cube and cylinder moulds.
8. The cubes should be tested on sides and not along the direction of Casting, comment on this
statement?

GENERAL REMARKS:

Name:

Registration No.:

44 | P a g e
 4(C) DETERMINATION OF INDIRECT TENSILE STRENGTH OF CONCRETE

OBJECTIVE: To determine the indirect tensile strength of cylinder.

APPARATUS:

1. Compressive testing machine

2. Two packing strips of plywood conforming to IS: 303-1960 & 12mm wide & 3mm thick shall be
provided for specimen & shall be used only once.

PROCEDURE:
1. Cast 150 mm × 300 mm cylinder of the mix proposed. Specimens shall be tested immediately on
removal from the water whilst they are still wet.
2. Diametrical lines shall be drawn on the two ends of the specimen that will ensure that they are in the
same axial plane. The diameter & the dimensions of the specimen shall be noted before testing. The
diameters of the specimen lying in the plane of the pre-marked lines shall be ensured near the ends & the
middle of the specimen & the average taken to the nearest 0.2mm.The length of the specimen shall be
taken to the nearest 0.2m by averaging the two lengths measured in the plane containing the pre-marked
lines shall be ensured near the ends & at the middle of the specimen.
3. The bearing surfaces of the testing machine & of the packing strips shall be wiped clean. The specimen
shall be placed on the plywood strip & aligned so that lines marked on the ends of the specimen are
vertical & centered over the plywood strip. The second plywood strip shall be placed lengthwise on the
cylinders, centered on the lines marked on the ends of the cylinder.
4. The rate of loading will be 1.4 to 2.1N/mm2 for 150x300mm cylinders.

45 | P a g e
 Figure 1: INDIRECT TENSILE STRENGTH TESTING MACHINE (CYLINDER SPECIMEN)

OBSERVATION:
Sl. Weight Dimension Failure Load Tensile strength (MPa) Average
No. (kg) (mm) (kN)

CALCULATIONS:
The split tensile strength shall be calculated from the following formula:
sp = 2P
π DL
where,
sp = measured splitting tensile strength calculated to 0.05N/mm2
P = maximum load in N,

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 D = diameter in mm of the specimen,
L = measured length of the specimen in mm.

QUESTIONNAIRE:
1.Split cylinder test is an indirect method of testing concrete in tension comment on this statement.
2.Why do you perform this test?
3. State the relation between tensile strength and compressive strength?
4. Split cylinder strength is about 15 percent higher than determined by direct tension tests comment?
5. The splitting tensile strength ranges approximately from 50 to 75 percent of the flexure strength. Comment?

GENERAL REMARKS:

Name:

Registration No.:

47 | P a g e
 EXPERIMENT NO. 5

5(A) MEASUREMENT OF WORKABILITY BY SLUMP CONE

OBJECTIVE: To determine the workability by slump cone method.

APPARATUS:

1. Mould: The mould for the test specimen shall be in the form of the frustum of a cone having the
following internal dimensions:
Dimensions Cm
Bottom diameter 20
Top diameter 10
Height 30

The mould shall be constructed of metal (brass or aluminum shall not be used) of a least 1.6mm thickness
and the top and bottom shall be open and right angles to the axis of the cone. The mould shall have
smooth internal surfaces. It shall be provided with suitable foot pieces and also handles to facilitate lifting
it from the moulded concrete tests specimen in a vertical direction as required by the test. A mould
provided with a suitable guide attachment may be used. Figure 1 shows the sketch of slump cone.
2. Tamping Rod: The tamping rod shall be of steel or other suitable material 16mm in diameter, 0.6m long
and rounded at one end.
Tray: Non-absorbent metal tray of 1 m2.

TEST PROCEDURE:
1. The internal surface of the mould shall be thoroughly cleaned and freed from moisture before
commencing the tests. The mould shall be placed on the smooth, horizontal and carefully leveled non-
absorbent metal surfaces.
2. The mould shall be filled in four equal layers with concrete sample and each layer shall be stamped
with twenty-five strokes of the rounded end of tamping rod. The strokes shall be distributed uniformly
over the cross section of the mould and for the second and subsequent layer shall penetrate into the
underlying layer. The bottom layer shall be tamped throughout it depth. After the top layer had been
rodded, the excess quantity of concrete shall be struck off & level with trowel or the tamping rod, so

48 | P a g e
 that the mould is exactly filled. Any mortar, which may have leaked out between the mould and the
base plate, shall be cleaned away.
3. The mould shall be removed from the concrete immediately by raising it slowly and carefully in
vertical direction.
4. The slump shall be measured immediately by determining the difference between the height of mould
and that of the highest point of the specimen being tested.
5. The slump measured shall be recorded in terms of millimeters of subsidence of the specimen during
the test.

OBSERVATIONS AND CALCULATION:

The slump of fresh concrete sample is ...................... mm.

Figure 1: SLUMP CONE

QUESTIONNAIRE:
1. Define slump of Concrete.
2. State the significance of slump test.

49 | P a g e
 3. State the slump range for concrete used for:
• Concrete for reinforced concrete beams and slabs.
• Concrete for roads.
• Columns and retaining walls.
• Mass concrete in foundations.
4. Differentiate by sketches the terms true slump, shear and collapse type of slumps.
5. Define workability and consistency of freshly mixed concrete.

GENERAL REMARKS:

Name:

Registration No.:

50 | P a g e
 5(B) MEASUREMENT OF WORKABILITY BY COMPACTION FACTOR

OBJECTIVE: To determine the workability by compaction factor method.

APPARATUS:

1. Compacting factor apparatus with following dimensions:

DETAILS DIMENSION (CM)

UPPER HOPPER, A
Top internal diameter 25.4
Bottom internal diameter 12.7
Internal height 27.9
LOWER HOPPER, B
Top internal diameter 22.9
Bottom internal diameter 12.7
Internal height 22.9
CYLINDER, C
Internal diameter 15.2
Internal height 30.5
Distance between bottom of upper hopper
20.3
& top of lower hopper
Distance between bottom of lower hopper
20.3
& top of cylinder

PROCEDURE:
1. The sample of concrete to be tested shall be placed gently in the upper hopper. The hopper shall be filled
level with its brim & the trap door shall be opened so that the concrete falls into the lower hopper.
2. The hopper shall be filled level with its brim & the trap door shall be opened so that the concrete falls
into the lower hopper.

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 3. The excess concrete should be strike off & this shall be carried without any shock or vibration to the
concrete.
4. The weight of the concrete in the cylinder shall be determined to the nearest 10g. This shall be recorded
as weight of partially compacted concrete (W1).
5. The cylinder shall be refilled with concrete from the same sample in layers approximately 5 cm deep, the
layers being heavily rammed or preferably vibrated so as to achieve full compaction. The top surface of
the fully compacted concrete shall be carefully struck off & its weight taken. This is the weight of fully
compacted concrete (W2).

Hopper Clamp

Clamp
Hinge

Trap Door

Cylinder
Clamp
each
side

Figure 1: COMPACTION FACTOR APPARATUS

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 CALCULATION:
The compacting factor shall be calculated as follows:
Compaction factor = W1/ W2
Where,
W1 = Weight of partially compacted concrete.
W2 = Weight of fully compacted concrete.

QUESTIONNAIRE:
1. Define compaction factor.
2. How do you compare slump test with compaction factor test?
3. Will the workability increase or decrease with increase in compaction factor and why?
4. Does compaction factor test gives a better measure of workability then slump test?
5. Differentiate between workability and consistency?
6. Can we use this test in the field also?

GENERAL REMARKS:

Name:

Registration No.:

53 | P a g e
 EXPERIMENT NO. 6

NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING OF CONCRETE BY REBOUND HAMMER METHOD

OBJECTIVE: To test the concrete specimens by the non-destructive test methods using Rebound hammer.

STANDARDS:
IS CODE: IS 13311 (PART 2): 1992

THEORY: In actual structure, at a construction site, it is not possible to estimate the strength directly. Some
estimate of the quality of concrete as well as of the uniformity of casting of a structure can, however, be obtained
by non-destructive techniques such as Rebound Hammer tests. Rebound hammer, also called Schmidt Hammer,
Impact Hammer or sclerometer (Fig. 1) measures the hardness of a material surface by the rebound of a standard
ball after an elastic impact against the surface, the mass being released from a standard precompressed spring,
thus having a fixed amount of energy. The distance travelled by the mass after this elastic impact expressed as a
percentage of the original distance is termed as rebound number. This rebound number as an index of the
hardness of the surface, can give a reasonable estimate of the concrete strength if a good lot of data giving
empirical relationship between the rebound number and concrete strength is available.

APPARATUS:
1. Schmidt hammer
PROCEDURE:
Rebound Hammer
1. The specimen to be tested shall be kept and cured in such a way that the softening or hardening of the
surface due to leaching of calcium hydroxide, corrosion or carbonation is avoided.
2. The specimen surface shall be cleaned of dust or any loose material.
3. The specimen shall be held or fixed in such a way that is does not yield under the impact of hammer.
4. The plunger of the hammer shall always be kept perpendicular to the surface.
5. About ten to twelve readings shall be taken and then their average value calculated to get a
representative index of hardness.
6. All the readings which are to be compared shall be taken while keeping the hammer in a specified
inclination with the vertical, with the hammer pointing always in the same direction. For the same

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 surface, the readings taken vertically are likely to be different from those taken by keeping the
hammer in the horizontal position.

(a) Schmidt Hammer

(b) Testing position

Figure 1: REBOUND HAMMER
OBSERVATIONS & CALCULATIONS:
1. Concrete mix used.
2. Type of cement and aggregate used.
3. Curing conditions.
4. Age of concrete.
5. Wheather wet or dry.

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 Sr. No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Rebound
No.
Compressive
Strength

RESULTS:
Compressive strength by Rebound Hammer =

PRECAUTIONS:
1. Before, rebound hammer test is conducted on the surface, all loose material should be removed.
2. Plunger of the hammer should always be kept perpendicular to the surface.

COMMENTS:
Tests can be made for different purposes. The main two objectives of the tests are the control of quality and
compliance with specifications. Additional tests can be made for specific purpose e.g. compressive strength tests
to determine the strength of concrete at transfer of prestress or at the time of striking the form work. It should be
remembered that tests are not an end in themselves. In the case of concrete they seldom lend themselves to a
neat, concise interpretation, so that in order to be at real value, tests should always be used against the
background of experience.

QUESTIONNAIRE:
1. What are the drawbacks of this test?
2. Is this test quite reliable?

GENERAL REMARKS:

Name:
Registration No.:

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 EXPERIMENT NO. 7

7(A) SPECIFIC GRAVITY AND WATER ABSORPTION OF FINE AGGREGATE

OBJECTIVE: To determine the specific gravity and water absorption of Fine Aggregate.

APPARATUS:
1. Balance – A balance or scale of capacity not less than 3 kg, readable and accurate to 0.5 g, and of
such a type as to permit the weighing of the vessel containing the aggregate and water.
2. Oven – A well-ventilated oven thermostatically controlled to maintain a temperature of 100 to 1100C.
3. Pycnometer - A pycnometer of about one liter capacity have a metal conical screw top with a 6-mm
diameter hole at its apex as shown in figure. The screw top shall be watertight when it is screwed on
to the jar, and if, necessary, a rubber or fiber washer shall be inserted in the joint. If such a washer is
used, a mark shall be made on the jar to correspond with a mark on the screw top so that the screw is
tightened to the same position every time and the volume contained by the jar is constant throughout
the test.
4. A means of supplying a current of warm air, such as a hair drier.
5. A tray of area not less than 325 cm2

STEPS:
1. Using the pycnometer – take sample of about 1kg of aggregate and place in tray covered with water at a
temperature of 220 to 320c.
2. Remove the Entrapped air on the surface of the aggregate by gentle agitation with a rod. Keep the sample
immersed for 24 + ½ hours.
3.Carefully drained water from the sample& keep the aggregate for Drying stirring it at frequent intervals to
ensure uniform drying until no free surface moisture can be seen and the material just attains a ‘free-
running’ condition.
4. The saturated and surface-dry sample shall be weighed. (Weighed S).
5. Place the aggregate in the pycnometer & fill it with water. Eliminate Any trapped air by rotating the
pycnometer on its side while covering the hole in the apex of the cone with finger

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 6. Top the pycnometer with water to remove any froth from the surface also to ensure that the surface of the
water in the hole is flat.
7. The pycnometer shall be dried on the outside weighed (weight C).
8. Empty the contents of the pycnometer into a tray, taking care that all the aggregate is transferred.
9. Refill the pycnometer with water to the same level as before, dried OR wipe from outside and take the
weight (weight B).
10. Drain the water from the sample by Decantation through filter paper and return any material retained to
the sample.
11. Place the aggregate in oven in the tray at a temp of 100to 110oC for 24±1/2hrs.
12. Cool the aggregate in air tight container and take the weight (Weight A).

Figure 1: PYCNOMETER

CALCULATIONS:
Specific gravity & Water Absorption shall be calculated as follows:
Specific gravity = S
@ SSD (B+S-C)
Water Absorption = S- A x 100
A
where, S=Wt. in gm of SSD sample
C=Wt. In gm of pycnometer containing sample and filled with water
B= Wt. In gm of pycnometer filled with distilled water only
A= Wt. in Gm of oven dry sample

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 QUESTIONNAIRE:
1. What is the significance of the test?
2. Why is the determination of specific gravities of ingredients made under conditions identical with those
to be applied to the analysis of concrete?
3. How is the Specific Gravity of the Fine Aggregate?
4. What is the important use of the test?
5. What is the correction factor and how is it determined?

GENERAL REMARKS:

Name:

Registration No.:

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 7(B) SPECIFIC GRAVITY AND WATER ABSORPTION COARSE AGGREGATE BY PERFORATED
BASKET METHOD

OBJECTIVE: To determine the specific gravity and water absorption of coarse aggregate.

APPARATUS:
1. Balance – A balance or scale of capacity not less than 3 kg, readable and accurate to 0.5 g, and of
such a type as to permit the basket containing the sample to be suspended from the beam and weighed
in water.
2. Oven – A well-ventilated oven thermostatically controlled to maintain temperature of 100 to 1100C.
3. Basket – A wire basket of not more than 6.3 mm mesh or a perforated container of convenient size,
preferably chromium plated and polished, with wire hangers not thicker than one millimeter for
suspending it from the balance.
a) A stout watertight container in which the basket may be freely suspended.
b) Two dry soft absorbent cloths each not less than 75 x 45 cm.
c) A shallow tray of area not less than 650 cm2.
d) An airtight container of capacity similar to that of the basket.

SAMPLE:
A sample of not less than 2000 g of the aggregate shall be tested, and it is recommended that the two samples
should not be tested concurrently.

STEPS:-
1. Wash the sample thoroughly to remove finer particles and dust. Drain the water and place sample in wire
basket immersed in water at a temperature between 220C and 320C with a cover of at least 5 cm of water
above the top of the basket.
2. Remove Entrapped air by lifting the basket containing it 25 mm above the base of the tank and allowing it
to drop 25 times at the rate of about one drop per second.
3. Keep basket and aggregate immersed for a period 24 + ½ hours.
4. The basket and the sample shall then be jolted and weigh in water at a temperature of 22 to 230C. (Weigh
A1)

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 5. Remove basket and aggregate from water. Allow draining off for a few minutes and then empty the
aggregates from basket to one of the dry clothes.
6. Return the empty basket to the water, jolt 25 times and weighed in water (weight C).
7. The aggregate placed on the dry cloth shall be gently surface dried with cloth, transferring it to the second
dry cloth when the first will remove no further moisture. It shall then be spread out not more than one
stone deep on the second cloth. And least exposed to the atmosphere away from direct sunlight or any
other source of heat for not less than 10 minutes, or until it appears to be completely surface dry. The
aggregate shall be turned over at least once during this period.
8. Weigh the aggregate in air (weight A).
9. Place the aggregate in oven at temp of 100to 110Oc and maintained at this temp for period of 24±1/2 Hrs.
10. Remove aggregate from Oven and cool it in airtight container and Weight (Weight A).

Figure 1: DENSITY BASKET APPARATUS

CALCULATIONS:
Specific gravity @ SSC = B/ B- C
Water Absorption = 100(B-A)
A
where, A=Weight of Oven dried sample (gm)
B=Weight of SSD sample in air (gm)
C=Weight of SSD Sample in water (gm)

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 QUESTIONNAIRE:
1. Why is the determination of specific gravities of ingredients made under conditions identical with those
to be applied to the analysis of concrete?

2. What is the significance of the test?

3. What precautions are taken in the determination of specific gravity?

4. What is the other important use of this test?

5. What is the correction factor and how is it determined?

GENERAL REMARKS:

Name:

Registration No.:

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 EXPERIMENT NO. 8

8(A) BULKING OF FINE AGGREGATE

OBJECTIVE: To determine the bulking of Fine Aggregate.

APPARATUS:

1. Measuring Cylinder

2. Weighing Balance

3. Fine Aggregate

STEPS:

1. Take 500 grams of fine aggregate over dried at a temperature of 100 to 110 degree Celsius for 24 ± 0.5
hours. This weight is measured as W1.

2. The cooled sand is taken in an airtight container. This weight is measured as W2.

3. The water content of the sample is calculated as :

4. Wc = (W1-W2)x 100/W1…….Eq.1
5. In a pan, 250 grams of sand is taken to this 2% by weight of water is added. This is properly mixed.

6. The mixture is poured into a 250ml cylinder. This is consolidated by shaking

7. The surface is leveled. The reading is measured as Y1.

8. The test is repeated for the remaining quantity of sand for 2% water by weight each time. The readings
are taken as Y2, Y3…..etc until a decreasing reading of the volume is observed.

9. After this level, 4% water is added and the test is continued until the sample becomes fully saturated.

10. To the standard sample in the measuring cylinder, add about 50 ml water ore and stir the sample well.

11. Note down the surface level of inundated sand (Y ml).

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 Figure 1: BULKING OF FINE AGGREAGTE

CALCULATIONS:
Percentage Bulking of Sand = (Y1-Y)*100\Y

QUESTIONNAIRE:

1. What is Bulking of Fine Aggregate?

2. What is the reason for Bulking of Fine Aggregate?
3. Why do we do this test?
4. How does it affect concrete mix?
5. How is Bulking related to moisture content?

GENERAL REMARKS:

Name:

Registration No.:

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 8(B) FINENESS MODULUS OF FINE AGGREGATE AND COARSE AGGREGATE

OBJECTIVE: To Determine the Fineness Modulus of Fine Aggregate and Coarse Aggregate.

THEORY: The aggregate most of which passes IS 4.75mm sieve is classified as fine aggregate. The fine
aggregate from Natural disintegration of rocks and deposited by streams age known as natural sands. Fine
aggregates resulting from crushing of hard stone and natural gravel are known as crushed stone sand crushed
gravels and respectively. Aggregate most of which retained on IS 4.75mm sieve is known as coarse aggregate. It
may be in the form of uncrushed gravel or stone resulting from natural disintegration of rocks. Crushed gravel or
stone aggregate is obtained by crushing gravel or hard stone. Mixture of the above two is classified as partially
crushed gravel or stone. Sieve analysis is carried out for the disintegration of particle size distribution of the fine,
coarse and all in aggregates by sieving or screening. Sieves of sizes 80mm, 40mm, 20mm, 10mm, 4.75mm,
2.36mm, 1.18mm, 600micron, 300 micron, and 150micron conforming to IS 460 specifications are used.

APPARATUS:

1. Balance: Accurate to 0.1% of the weight of the test sample.

2. Sieves: Conforming to IS 460-1962 specifications for Test Sieves Shall be used.

SAMPLE:

The weight of the sample available shall be not less than the weight. The sample for sieving shall be prepared
from larger sample either by quartering or by means of a sample divider.

PROCEDURE:

The sample shall be brought to an air- dry condition before weighing and sieving. This may be achieved either by
drying at room temperature or by heating at a temperature of 1000C to1100C. The air dry sample shall be
weighed and sieved successively on the appropriate sieves starting with the largest size sieve. Care shall be taken
to ensure that the sieves are clean before use.

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 Each sieve shall be shaken separately over a clean tray for a period of not less than 2min.The shaking is done
with a varied motion backwards and forward, left and right, circular clock-wise and anticlockwise and with
frequent jarring so that the material is kept moving over the sieve surface in frequently changing directions. Find
the weight of aggregated retained on each sieve taken in order.

If sieving is carried out with a nest of sieves on a machine, not less than 10minutes sieving will be required for
each test.

FIG: SIEVES FOR COARSE AGGREGATE

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 Figure 1: SIEVES FOR FINE AGGREGATE

Sieve Analysis of Coarse aggregate

IS Sieves Weight %retained %weight Cumulative %passing

retained passing %wt. retained
80mm
40mm
20mm
10mm
4.75mm
Pan

Fineness Modulus of Coarse Aggregate = (C+500)/100

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 Sieve Analysis of Fine Aggregate
IS Sieves weight %weight %weight Cumulative %passing
retained retained passing %wt. retained
4.75mm
2.36mm
1.18mm
600micron
300micron
150micron
75 micron
Pan

Fineness Modulus of Fine Aggregate=F/100

QUESTIONNAIRE:
1. Define fineness modulus of an aggregate and what its importance is.
2. What is the significance of grading of aggregates and what is meant by good grading?
3. How should aggregate be stockpiled on a construction site?
4. What are common maximum sizes of coarse aggregates available in the market?
5. Why the aggregates are referred to as filler materials?
6. Why are the lightweight aggregates used for certain jobs?
7. Differentiate between fine aggregate, coarse aggregate and mixed aggregate?
8. What are the different sieve systems used in India, U.K. and U.S.A for grading of aggregates?
9. How does the size of an aggregate affect its fineness modulus?
10. What is a grading curve and where it is used?
11. What are the usual limits of fineness modulus of coarse aggregates and mixed aggregates?
12. What are the fineness modulus limits of fine sand and coarse sand?

GENERAL REMARKS:

Name:
Registration No.:

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 EXPERIMENT NO. 9

9(A) DETERMINATION OF COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF BRICKS

OBJECTIVE: To determine the compressive strength of bricks.

THEORY: Bricks are mostly subjected to compression and rarely tension. The usual crushing strength of
common hand moulded well burnt 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 mould bricks made of thoroughly purged clay are much stronger
than common hand moulded bricks made from carelessly prepared clay.

APPARATUS:
1. A compression –testing machine having a compression plate with a ball seating in the form of portion of
sphere the centre of which coincided with the center of the plate.

PRECONDITIONING:
Take 5 bricks remove unevenness observed in the bed faces to provide two smooth and parallel faces by
grinding. Immerse the bricks in water at room temperature for 24hrs. Remove the specimen and drain out any
surplus moisture at room temperature. Fill the frog (where provided) and all voids in the bed face flush with the
cement mortar (1 cement, 1clean coarse sand of 3 mm and down). Store under the damp Jute bags for 24 hrs
followed by immersion in clean water for 3 days. Remove and wipe out any traces of moisture.

PROCEDURE:
Place the specimen with flat horizontal and mortar filled face facing upwards between two 3-plywood sheets
each of 3mm thickness and carefully centered between plates of the testing machine. Apply load axially at a
uniform rate of 14 N/mm2 (140kg/cm2) per minute till failure occurs and note the maximum load at failure. The
load at failure shall be maximum load at which the specimen fails to procedure any further increase in the
indicator reading on the testing machine.

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 Figure 1: COMPRESSION TEST MACHINE (FOR BRICKS)

OBSERVATIONS:
S.No Size (mm) Load(kN) Compressive Strength Average
(N/mm2)
1
2
3
4
5

QUESTIONNAIRE:
1. Why bricks are tested for compressive strength?
2. State I.S specifications for compressive strength for the bricks?
3. What are tiles and name some of their types used in India?
4. Why do you sprinkle water on bricks before actual use?

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 5. Compare hand moulded and machine moulded bricks?
6. Should we test the bricks in tension?

GENERAL REMARKS:

Name:

Registration No.:

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 9(B) DETERMINATION OF WATER ABSORPTION OF BRICKS

OBJECTIVE: To determine Water absorption of Bricks.

THEORY: 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 1/7th of the weight of the
brick.

APPARATUS:
1. A sensitive balance capable of weighing within 0.1% of the specimen and a ventilated oven.

PRECONDITIONING:
Take 5 bricks and dry in a ventilated oven at a temperature of 105 to 115 0C till it attains substantially constant
mass. Cool the specimen to room temperature and obtain it weight (M). Specimen warm to touch shall not be
used for the purpose.

PROCEDURE:
Immerse completely dried specimen in clean water at a temperature of 27±2ᵒC for 24 hrs. Remove the specimen
and wipe out any traces of water with a damp cloth and weigh the specimen. Complete the weighing within three
minutes after the specimen has been removed from wet (M2).
Water absorption, percent by mass, after 24 hrs immersion in cold water is given by the formula:
M2-M1x100
M1

OBSERVATIONS:
Water Absorption (percent by weight after 24 hrs immersion in cold water).

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 S.No. Dry weight(M1) Wet weight (M2) Percent by Remarks
weight (M2-
M1)/M1*100
1
2
3
4
5

QUESTIONNAIRE:
1. Discuss the importance of this test?
2. Name the characteristics of good bricks?
3. State the maximum limit on water absorption of building bricks?
4. What is the standard size and weight of a building bricks?
5. What is a modular brick?

GENERAL REMARKS:

Name:

Registration No.:

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