Silt Content Sand Examination

Purpose: Determine the Silt content in sand (fine aggregate).

Apparatus:

 Measuring cylinder(250ml)
 Water
 Sand

Test Method:

1. Firstly, 50ml solution of 1% salt in water is prepared in the measuring cylinder. The addition of
salt increase the settlement time of silt.
2. The sample of sand to be tested is then added to the cylinder until the level reaches 100ml.
3. 50ml of the solution of salt and water is again added to the measuring cylinder.
4. Close the open end of the measuring cylinder and shake it well.
5. After a period of 3-4 hours, you will notice a layer of silt settled over the sand.
6. Now note down the volume V1 of the silt layer settled over sand.
7. Note down the volume V2 of the settled sand.
8. Repeat the procedure a couple more time to get the average.

The allowable silt content in sand percentage should be only 6%.

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