Republic of the Philippines

BICOL UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING

Legazpi City

LABORATORY MANUAL

IN

CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS
AND TESTING

___________________________________________

NAME OF STUDENT

_______________________________________

Class Schedule

______Semester, School Year 2___-2___

 General Laboratory Instruction

The Materials and Testing Course provides credit for three hours lecture
and three hours laboratory work per week. The laboratory testing has
been earned so that each test may be performs within the three-hour
period.

Each laboratory period will consist of three parts; there are:

A. Short briefings on the tests which are to be performed.

B. Actual laboratory testing. This will be done in groups or three or four

persons. In some cases, this may be a demonstration by the instructor.

C. The reduction of rough data, once the testing is complete and group has
secured its own data, the data will be reduced and all necessary
computations will be made. Each student will secure a copy of all data and
calculations before leaving the laboratory room.

In general, a report will be submitted one week after each laboratory is

performed. General notes on the reports are given one of the following
pages. Specific instruction will be given for each test.

Most of the experiments require some preparation that must be done

before coming to class. Completing this readings/or calculation will
prevent needless delay mistake and wasted effort during the laboratory
period.

During the laboratory period, reasonable care should be used to prevent

damage to equipment and personnel. The equipment in the laboratory is
for use and most of it is quite rugged and not easily damage, however, if in
doubt concerning the operation of the equipment, ask the instructor or
laboratory technician.

An essential element of good laboratory practice is maintaining a clean

and orderly laboratory. It will be the responsibility of each group to clean
its own equipment and area where their laboratory work is performed. All
equipment should be check for any damages before borrowing them and
will be returned to its proper place.

Some of the test will require that someone will check on the test day
following the laboratory period. The group may delegate one person to do
this. However, each group will be responsible for securing any data
obtained.
 Experiment No 1

SAMPLING PF AGGREGATES FOR MECHANICAL ANALYSIS BY

QUARTERING METHOD

This test is the preparation of representative sample of aggregates for

mechanical analysis.

Materials and Apparatus:

1. Representative sample of aggregates

2. Spade/Shovel
3. Container
4. Standard sieve, 1’ opening
5. Sample Splitter

Procedures:

1. Take a representative sample of sand and gravel. Place it in a

container.
2. Wash it thoroughly with water so that it will be free from silt and clay
3. Dry the sample.
4. Pass it to 1’ sieve and disregard the sample of more than 1’ diameter.
5. Pass it to the sample splitter and place it on level ground
6. Make a mound and divide it into four parts.
7. Take the opposite division for sieve analysis of coarse and fine
aggregates.

Discussion:

Discuss the Quartering Method

 Experiment No. 2
Determination of Relative Density and Absorption of Coarse Aggregates

Theory:
Aggregates are neither porous, nor solid particles. Water is absorbed by the
particle in the pore spaces, which may be relatively shallow or may extend well
into the aggregate particle.
The moisture condition of aggregate particles can be:
1. Dry, over-dry or no moisture content.
2. Saturated, surface-dry-all pores filled with water, no moisture film on the
surface.
3. Wet-pores saturated and surface moisture present.
For specific gravity calculations, either the mass in the dry condition or the
mass in the saturated, surface-dry condition can be used. The volume can be the
net volume (i.e. the volume particle, excluding the volume of the pore space that
can be filled with water) or the volume (i.e. the volume of the particle, including
pores).
In this test the particles are soaked, and then their mass is measured (1) in
air, (2) submerged, and (3) after drying in the oven. The difference between
mass when dry and mass when submerged equals the mass of water displaced
by the aggregate. Since the mass of water displaced in grams equals the volume
of water displaced in cubic centimeters, the net volume of the aggregates can be
obtained.

Materials and Apparatus:

1. Aggregates passing 3/8” sieve
2. Wire basket
3. Balance (accurate to 0.1 gm)
4. Oven
5. Big pail with water

Procedures
1. Wash approximately 2 kg of coarse aggregates. Soak for 24 hours.
2. Pour off water, and then roll the aggregates in a towel until the surface
moisture is removed. Wipe the larger pieces individually. The surface
moisture film, which shines, must be removed, but the particles must not
 be allowed to dry out, as this means that absorbed water is being
removed.
3. Obtain the mass (saturated surface dry condition).
4. Place the sample in the wire basket and obtain the mass submerged.
5. Dry the sample in the oven.
6. Measure the mass.
 Experiment No. 2
TITLE : ____________________________________________________
Objective : ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

Figure:

Data:
Mass saturated, surface dry, MSSD _______________________ gms.

Mass submerged, MSUB _______________________ gms.

Mass dry, MD _______________________ gms.
Calculations:
Mass of absorbed water (MSSD - MD), MWA _________________ gms.
Volume net (MD - MSUB), VN _________________ gms.
Volume bulk (VN + MWA), VB _________________ gms.
RDA = MD /VN _________________ gms.
RDB = MD /VB _________________ gms.
RDSSD = MSSD /VN _________________ gms.
Absorption = MWA /MD _________________ gms.

Analysis/Conclusion:
 Experiment No. 3

Determination of Relative Density and absorption of Fine Aggregates

Theory:

As with coarse aggregates, fine aggregates are porous and absorb water.
Relative density can be calculated using the mass (including or excluding the
mass of absorbed water) and the net or bulk volumes (the latter including the
volume of absorbed water). A sample of wet sand is slowly dried. The moisture
film around the sand grains holds the grains together, due to surface tension in
between grains disappears. However, at that time the absorbed water, which
does not evaporate until the surface water is gone, is still in the aggregate and
can, therefore, be measured.

Materials and Apparatus:

1. Pycnometer or volumetric flask (500 mL)

2. Conical mold and tamper
3. Balance (accurate to 0.01 gm)
4. Oven
5. 1 kg of soak fine aggregates

Procedure:

1. Obtain and soak a sample of about 1 kg

2. Dry the sample slowly with a hair dryer or similar apparatus. While drying,
periodically fill the cone with sand, lightly tamp the surface 25 times, and
lift the cone to check if the sand maintains the shape of the mold.
3. Continue drying until the sand slumps when the cone is lifted. The sand is
then in saturated, surface-dry condition.
4. Place 500 gms of this sand in the pycnometer. Add water to cover the
sand.
5. Roll and agitate the pycnometer to eliminate air bubbles.
6. Adjust the temperature to 23 C (+ 2 C) by immersing in water.
7. Fill the pycnometer to calibrated level.
8. Obtain the total mass.
9. Remove the aggregate from the pycnometer. Dry the sample in oven.
Obtain mass.
 Experiment No. 3

TITLE : ____________________________________________________
Objective : ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
Figure:

Data:

Mass of sand + water + pycnometer ( C ) ________________ g

Mass of dry sand (A) ________________ g

Mass of pycnometer filled with water at

23 C (usually given) (B) ________________

Calculations:

A
Bulk relative density RDB = =
B+500−C

500
Saturated, surface dry RDSSD = =
B+500−C

A
Apparent relative density RDA= =
B+ A−C

500− A
Absorption %Abs= x 100=
A

Analysis/ Conclusion:
 Experiment No. 4

Determination of Surface Moisture of Coarse Aggregates

Theory:

This method of test covers a procedure for determining in the field, the
amount of surface moisture in coarse aggregates by displacement in water. The
accuracy of the method depends upon accurate information on the bulk specific
gravity of the material in a saturated surface dried condition. The same
procedure, with appropriate changes in the size of sample and dimensions of the
container, may be applied to fine aggregates.

Materials and Apparatus:

1. Sample of aggregates passing 1 – 200 g.

2. Triple beam balance (accurate to 0.01 gm)
3. Flask / graduated cylinder – 1000 ml cap.
Procedure:

The surface water content may be determined either by weight or volume.

In each cases the test shall be made at a temperature of 18 to 29 C (65 to 85 F)

A. Determination by Weight.
Fill the graduated cylinder to the mark with water and determine the weight in
grams. Empty the cylinder and place enough water in it to cover the sample.
Introduce the weighed sample of coarse aggregates into the cylinder and remove
the entrained air. Fill the cylinder to the original mark, and determine the weight
in grams. Calculate the amount of water displaced by sample, as follows:

V S = WC + Ws – W

Where:
 VS = weight of water displaced by sample, g.

WC = weight of cylinder filled to the mark with water, g.

Ws = weight of sample, g.

W = weight of cylinder and sample, filled to the mark with water, g.

B. Determination by Volume.
Measure the volume of water, ml., sufficient to cover the sample and place
in the cylinder. Introduce the weighed sample of coarse aggregates into the
cylinder and remove the entrained air. Determine the combined volume of the
sample and the water by direct reading when a graduated flask is used. When
using a pycnometer or volumetric flask, determined the combined volume of
the sample and the water by filling to the mark with a measured volume of
water. Calculate the amount of water displaced by the sample as follows:

VS = V 2 - V 1

Where:

VS = volume of water displaced by sample, ml.

V2 = combined volume of sample and water, ml

V1 = volume of water required to cover the sample, ml

 Experiment No. 4

TITLE : ____________________________________________________
Objective : ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
Figure:

Data:
Calculations:

Analysis/ Conclusions:
 Experiment No.5
Sieve Analysis

Theory:

Sieve analysis is used to determine the particle size distribution or

gradation of an aggregate. A suitable aggregate in a concrete mix is desirable in
order to secure workability of the mixture and economy in the use of asphalt, but
will also affect significantly the strength and other important properties.

The sieve analysis of an aggregate is performed by "sifting" the

aggregates through a series of sieves nested in order, with the smallest on the
bottom. These sieves have square openings and are usually constructed of wire
mesh. In the testing of concrete aggregates, there is generally employed a series
of sieves in which any sieve in the series has twice in the clear opening of the
next smaller size series. The US Standard Sieve Series and the clear opening of
each sieve are given below.

Fine Aggregates
Coarse Aggregates

US Standard Clear Opening US Standard Clear Opening

Sieve Size (mm) Sieve Size (mm)
No.4 4.75 2" 50.0
No.6 3.35
1" 25.00
No.8 2.36
No.20 0.850
3/4" 19.00
No.40 0.425
No.50 0.300
1/2" 12.50
No.60 0.212
No.100 0.150 No.4 4.75
No.200 0.075

Fineness Modulus:
Fineness modulus is an index number which is roughly proportional to the
average size of the particles in a given aggregate. It is computed by adding the
cumulative percentage coarser than each of certain sieves and dividing by 100.
(Note: even though some materials may be retained on the pan, it is not
considered in the sieve and does not enter into computations for fineness
modulus. In addition, if sieves other than those standard sieves listed above are
not used, they are not used directly in the computations and any material
retained on such sieves should be considered as being retained on the next
smaller sieve of the series used in the computation, e.g., any material retained on
a 1" sieve should be added to the 3/4" sieve for the purpose of the fineness
modulus computation. However, the amount and percentage of the 1" material
would appear in the tabular listing in the analysis).

The following illustrates the calculation of the fineness calculation.

U.S Standard Weight Retained Cumulated Cumulative %
Sieve Size Weight Retained Retained
No.4 30 30 9.7
No.8 40 70 22.6
No.10 30 100 --
No.16 30 130 42.0
No.30 35 165 53.3
No.50 45 210 67.8
No.80 40 250 --
No.100 50 300 96.8
Pan 10 310 100.0

Fineness modulus of sand = (9.7 + 22.6 + 42.0 + 53.3 + 67.8 + 96.8)/100

= 2.92

"odd" sieve not used directly in fineness modulus calculations.

Any interpretation of the fineness modulus might be that it represents the

(weighted) average sieve of the group upon which the material is retained.
No.100 being the first, No.50 the second, etc. Thus, for sand with FM of 3.00,
sieve No.30 (the third sieve) would be the average sieve size which the
aggregate is retained.

Materials and Apparatus:

1. set of sieves for fine and coarse aggregates

2. triple beam balance for fine aggregates
3. 30 kg. cap. Balance
4. samples of aggregates
5. sample splitter
 6. mechanical sieve shaker

Procedure:

1. Obtain proper weight of dry aggregates.

a. Coarse aggregates - min. of 500 g.
b. Fine aggregates - 500 g. use sample splitter
2. Assemble sieve in the following order:
a. For coarse aggregates: 1", 3/4", 1/2", 3/8", No.4, pan
b. For fine aggregate: No.4, No.8, No. 20, No.40, No.50, No.100,
No.200, pan
3. Place the weighted aggregates in the top of the sieve stack and cover with
the lid. Properly secure the sieves in the mechanical shaker and turn on the
shaker for 5 minutes. In case of the absence of mechanical shaker, shake the
stack of sieve with your hands continuously for the same time.
4. Weigh the materials that are retained on each of the sieves, including the
weight retained on the pan, and the record in the data sheet. If the sum of these
weights is not 1 percent of the original sample weight, the procedure should be
repeated. Otherwise, use the sum of the weight retained to calculate the
percentage on each sieve.
5. Compute the cumulative percent retained on, and the percent passing
each sieve.
6. Plot the gradation curve for the coarse and fine aggregates from the
experiment on a semi-log paper. Plot the specified gradation curves for the
coarse and aggregates (to be specified by the laboratory instructor). Plot the
combined grading curved using 40% coarse aggregates and 60% fine
aggregates.
7. Compute the Fineness Modulus for the fine aggregates.
 Experiment No.5

TITLE : ____________________________________________________
Objective : ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

Figure:

Data:

Coarse Aggregates
U.S. Sieve Size Weight Percentage Cumulative % Passing
Size Opening Retained Weight Percentage
(mm) (gms) Retained Weight
Retained
1" 25.00
3/4" 19.0
1/2" 12.50
No.4 4.75
Pan
Fine Aggregates
U.S Sieve Size Weight Percentage Cumulative % Passing
Size Opening Retained Weight Percentage
(mm) (gms) Retained Weight
Retained
No.4 4.75
No.8 2.38
No.20 0.850
No.50 0.300
No.100 0.150
No.200 0.075
Pan

Calculations:

Analysis/Conclusions:

Experiment No. 6
Determination of Unit Weight/ Dry Rodded Density of Course Aggregates
Theory:

The widely used ACI method of concrete design uses the dry rodded
density of coarse aggregates. The most economical concrete mix contains the
maximum amount of coarse aggregate particles. Therefore, the coarse
aggregates is placed in a container of known volume, and then rodded and
worked to get as many pieces as possible in the container; the resulting density
is measured. If the concrete mix can be designed using this amount of coarse
aggregate, the amounts of sand, cement, and water required to fill the spaces
between the coarse aggregate will be minimum.

Materials and Apparatus:

1. Tamping rod
2. Balance, 30kg. Cap
3. Construction pail
4. Container of known volume as follows:

Maximum Capacity (ft3) Maximum Capacity (ft3)

Aggregates Size Aggregates Size
(in.) (in.)
½ 1/10 20 7
1 1/3 50 15
1½ ½ 70 30
4 1

Procedure:

1. Obtain a sample of clean, dry mixed aggregates.

2. Fill the container 1/3 full, level the surface, and rod 25 times.
3. Fill the container 2/3 full, level, and rod 25 times, rodding the second
layer and just into the first layer.
4. Fill the container, level, and rod 25 times as before.
5. Level the surface, and obtain the mass.

Experiment No. 6

TITLE : ____________________________________________________
Objective : ____________________________________________________
 ____________________________________________________
Figure:

Data:

Volume of container __________

Net mass of aggregate __________

Experiment No. 7

Test for Compression of Wood Parallel to Grain

Theory:
 The purpose of this experiment is to determine the strength of wood under
compressive loading.

Materials and Apparatus:

1. Compression machine
2. Load indicator
3. Bearing blocks
4. 2” x 2” x 6” wood specimen
5. Measuring scale

Procedure:

1. Measure the cross section and length of the specimen to the nearest
0.01 in. Record the dimensions of the specimens.
2. Place the specimen in the compression machine.
3. Apply the load continuously until the specimen fails.
4. Observe the changes in shape of the specimen. Record the maximum
load.
5. Draw a sketch in perspective, indicating the grain of wood and the
manner of failure.
6. Compute the compressive strength.

Computation:

Compressive Strength = Total load / Cross-sectional area of bearing

 Experiment No. 7

TITLE : ____________________________________________________
Objective : ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
Figure:

Data:
Calculations:

Analysis/ Conclusions:
 Experiment No. 8

Test for Tension Wood

Theory:

The purpose of this experiment is to determine the strength of wood

under tensile loading.

Materials and Apparatus:

1. Tension testing machine

2. Load indicator
3. Load attachment
4. Wood specimen
5. Measuring scale

Procedure:

1. Obtain at least different kinds of wood specimen specifically

designed for tension testing.
2. Measure the dimensions of the smallest cross section located at
the middle of the wood specimen. Record the dimensions of the
specimens.
3. Attach the specimen in the tension apparatus.
4. Apply the load continuously until the specimen fails.
5. Observe the changes in shape of the specimen. Record the
maximum load.
6. Draw a sketch in perspective, indicating the grain of wood and
the manner of failure.
7. Compute the tensile strength.

Computation:

Tensile Strength = Total load / Cross-section area of bearing

 Experiment No. 8

TITLE : ____________________________________________________
Objective : ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

Figure:

Data:
Calculations:

Analysis/ Conclusion:
 Experiment No. 9

Test for Static Bending of Wood

Theory:

The purpose of this experiment is to determine the mechanical properties

of wood subjected to bending. The test also illustrates how the material fails. The
specific items to be determined are modulus of rapture, elasticity, and type of
failure. It should be mentioned that a careful attention should be given in the
measurements of strain of the sample.

Materials and Apparatus:

1. Testing machine for bending

2. Supporting apparatus
3. Load bending blocks
4. Deflection apparatus/ dial gage
5. Measuring scale
6. 2” x 2” x 30” wood specimen

Procedure:

1. Obtain at least two different wood specimens and measure the

dimensions.
2. Mark the center and end points of the specimen for a 30 inches span.
3. Place the beam in the machine with the ends placed on the support and
place the loading block at the center of the beam. The whole assembly
shall be properly centered such that the loading as at the center of the
machine’s loading head.
4. Carefully place the deflection apparatus near the center of wood and
touching the surface.
5. Apply the load continuously at the rate of 1,000 lbs per min. Take
simultaneous load and deflection readings for increment of every 200 lbs
until the maximum load has been reached.
6. Listen to the first failure of the specimen and record the deflection reading
in mm and the corresponding load.
7. Remove the dial gage and continue applying load until the specimen
reach the maximum load and failure.
8. Record the maximum load.
9. Sketch the type of failure and plot load deflection curve.
10. Compute the modulus of rapture and modulus of elasticity.
Computation:

Modulus of Rapture (M) = 3 Pmax L / 2bh2

Modulus of Elasticity (E) = PL3 / δ (4bh2)

Where:

Pmax = maximum load

L = span length

b = width

h = height

δ = slope of load deflection

 Experiment No. 9

TITLE : ____________________________________________________
Objective : ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

Figure:

Data:
Calculation:

Analysis/ Conclusion:
 Experiment No. 10

Test for Shear Stress to Grain of Wood

Theory:

The purpose of this experiment is to determine the strength of wood under

compressive loading.

Materials and Apparatus:

1. Compression machine
2. Wood specimen
3. Shear tool apparatus
4. Measuring scale

Procedure:

1. Measure the dimension of the specimen to the nearest 0.01 in. Record
the dimensions of the specimens.
2. Place the specimen in the shear tool apparatus.
3. Apply the load at a continuous rate until the specimen fails.
4. Observe the changes in shape of the specimen. Record the maximum
load.
5. Draw a sketch in perspective, indicating the grain of wood and the
manner of failure.
6. Compute the shearing stress.

Computation:

Shearing Stress = Load Applied / Shearing Area

 Experiment No. 10

TITLE : ____________________________________________________
Objective : ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

Figure:

Data:
Calculations:

Analysis/Conclusion:
 Experiment No. 11

Determination of Moisture Content of Wood

Theory:

The test seeks to determine the moisture content of wood sample. This
test is necessary since variation of moisture content will affect the results that will
be obtained in the various test of wood. All wood samples tested for strength
undergo this test.

Materials and Apparatus:

1. Oven
2. 2” x 2” x 2” wood specimen
3. Triple beam

Procedure:

1. A sample shall be selected for each test for moisture content

determination.
2. Weigh the wood samples
3. Place the specimen in oven and dried at a temperature at 103 +/- 20 C
until it reaches a constant weight.
4. Weigh the oven dried sample and determine the moisture content.

Computation:

Moisture Content = (weight of water / oven dried weight of wood sample) x 100
 Experiment No. 11

TITLE : ____________________________________________________
Objective : ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

Figure:

Data:
Calculations:

Analysis / Conclusion:
 Experiment No. 12

Slump Test of Concrete

Theory:

The amount that a sample of concrete, formed into a cone, slumps or falls
is a measure of consistency, or ease of placing and flowing.

Materials and Apparatus:

1. Slump cone
2. Tamping rod
3. Meter stick
4. Hand trowel
5. Sample of concrete
6. Mixing board/bowl

Procedure:

1. Dampen the cone and place it on a flat, moist surface.

2. With the operator standing on foot pieces, fill the cone in three layers with fresh
concrete, rodding each layer 25 times. The rodding strokes should be uniformly
distributed over the surface with a number near the perimeter. Rod the bottom
layer through its depth and the second and third layers just into the layer below.
Level off the top of the sample.
3. Lift the cone vertically until it is clear of concrete and set it down beside the
sample. Place the tamping rod across the cone and over the concrete and
measure the distance from the bottom of rod to the average height of the
concrete.
4. Compare the result to the allowable slump shown on the following table.
 Approximate Range in Slump of Concrete for Various Degree of Consistency

Consistency Slump (mm) Remarks

Dry Crumbles and falls part
under ordinary handling; can
be compacted into rigid
mass under vigorous
ramming, heavy pressure or
vibration, but unless care is
used.
Stiff 15-65 Tends to stand as a pile;
holds together fairly well but
crumbles if chuted; with care
and effort can be tamped
into solid dense mass;
satisfactory for vibratory
compaction.
Medium 65-125 Alternate terms; plastic,
mushy quaking. Easily
molded although some care
required to secure complete
compaction
Wet 125-200 File flattens readily when
dumped; can be poured into
place
sloopy 200-250 Grout or mortar tends to run
out of file, leaving coater
material behind.

Experiment No. 12

TITLE : ____________________________________________________
Objective : ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

Figure:

Date:

Calculations:
Analysis/Conclusion:

Experiment No. 13

Laboratory Concrete Mix Proportioning

Theory:

The purpose of the experiment are (1) to use the trial mix method described
herein after to determine optimum proportions of aggregates, cement, and water
for concrete to meet specified strength requirements, (2) to learn concreting
practice in the laboratory environment and (3) to observe the characteristic
properties of fresh concrete.

Materials and Apparatus:

1. 3 pcs - 6’ dia. X 12’ cylindrical molds

2. 3 pcs - 6’ X 6’ X 18’ flexural molds

3. Proportions of cement, aggregates and water

4. Spades/trowels
5. Mixing pans / board and tools (or a mechanical mixer)
6. Graduated cylinder
7. Wood/metal floats
8. Construction pails
9. Balance -30 kg cap

Procedure:

1. Using the given or established mix criteria, find the estimated quantities
required per cubic yard or cubic meter. The water requirement is obtained, the
cement requirements from the water/cement ratio, and the coarse aggregates
requirements. The amount of fine aggregates can be found by using the volume
method or by using the estimated total mass of concrete.
2. Calculate the amounts required for the trial mix. A batch of about 0.25 cu.
Ft or 0.007 cu. Meter should be mixed for each standard strength cylinder to be
made.
3. If the aggregates are not saturated, surface dry condition, correct the
calculated batch quantities.
4. Measured out the indicated amount of each materials (water, cement, and
aggregates)
5. Dampen the mixing pan or mixer. Mix the cement and the fine aggregates
together. Add the coarse aggregates and mix. Add about 50 - 75 % of the water
and mix thoroughly. Add additional water, mixing constantly until the desired
consistency is reached (this may require more or less water than measured out).
Note the actual amount of water used and observe the quality of the mix.
6. Conduct a slump test and, if required, an air content test.
7. Remix the concrete, place in the volumetric container in three layers,
rodding each layer 25 times; level the surface of the concrete flush with the top of
the container, and obtain the mass of the concrete in the container.
8. Remix the concrete and cast the strength test cylinder and beam mold.
9. Before filling the concrete into cylinder molds, determine the weight of
each cylinder mold and record the weight in the data sheet. The cylindrical
concrete specimen shall be formed by placing the concrete in the cylindrical
molds into three layers of approximate equal volume. Each layer should be
rodded 25 strokes using a tamping rod. This treatment will help to consolidate the
concrete and to drive out the air bubbled trapped in the concrete. After the top
layer has been rodded, the surface of the concrete shall be stucked out with
towel. Three cylinder concrete specimen shall be made. Measure the weight of
each cylinder mold that is filled with concrete and record the weight in data sheet.
Cover each with a grease glass plate.
10. The beam specimen shall be formed by placing the concrete in a steel
beam mold in two layers with approximately equal volume. Each layer shall be
rodded with a stroke (one stroke per 2 square inches) cover the top surface of
the beam with greased plate.
11. After 24 hours test specimen shall be removed from the molds and stored
in a curing room.
12. Compute the unit weight of the concrete, the weight of materials for
making one cubic yard of concrete and cement factor for the concrete mix.
Record these results in the data sheet.

Experiment No. 13

TITLE :
Objective :

Figure:

Data:

Design Criteria: W/C ____________________ Slump ____________

Max Agg Size_________________

Fine Aggregates _____________________________FM

Coarse Aggregates ________________

Dry rodded density_______________

Estimated proportion per cubic __________ or cubic meter ________

Water ______________

Cement (Water - W/C) _____________

Coarse Aggregates ________________

Fine Aggregate ___________________

Total Mass __________________

Experiment No. 14

Air Content Determination Of Concrete

 (Chase Method)

Theory:

The different methods of determining the air content of concrete are as

follows:

1. Gravimeter method
2. Pressure meter method
3. Volumetric method
4. Chase method

Materials and Apparatus:

1. air content apparatus

a. glass tube with calibration of 0.08 ml.
b. bran cup
2. rod paper clip
3. alcohol
4. concrete sample
5. spatula
6. mixing tray

Procedure:

1. Fill the bran cup with cement mortar paste.

2. Rod materials in cup to compact paste.
3. Hold finger over the stem opening of the glass tube and fill the large
end with alcohol.
4. Insert the stopper in tube, invert indicator and adjust liquid level to top
line stem.
5. Place finger over stem opening to prevent loss of any liquid.
6. Carefully remove the finger and get the final reading. Take 3 or more
trials.

Experiment No. 14
TITLE :

Objective :

Figure:

Data:

Calculations:
Analysis/Conclusion:

Experiment No. 15
Test for Fineness of Cement
Discussion:

This rate of hydration and hydrolysis and the consequent development of

strength in a cement mortar depend upon the fineness of grinding the cement,
the fineness has been standardized as follows.

The finer cement has quicker action with water and gain early strength is
not affected. Fineness also gives it more cohesiveness and reduces the
separation of water at the top of concrete. However, the shrinkage and cracking
of cement concrete, which increase in rate of strength development, are higher
with finer cement.

The objective of this experiment is to determine the fineness of cement by

sieve analysis.

Materials and apparatus:

1. sample of Portland cement

2. triple beam balance/digital balance sensitive to 0.1 cm
3. US standard sieve#200
4. Metal tray
5. Hand trowel

Procedure:

1. Accurately weigh 100 gm of cement and place it on Sieve No. 200

sieve.
2. Breakdown any air-set slumps in the sample with fingers, but do not
rub it on the sieve.
3. Sieving is done by a gentle motion of the wrist for 15 minutes
continuously.
4. The residue shall be weighted and should not exceed 10% by weight
of the cement sample.

Experiment No. 15
TITLE :

Objective :

Figure:

Data:

Experiment No.16
 Determination of Time of Setting of Cement

Discussion:

The initial set is a stage in the process of hardening of which any cracks
that may appear will not reunite. The concrete is said to be finally set when it has
attained sufficient strength and hardness.

Material and Apparatus:

1. Sample of cement
2. Triple beam balance
3. Vicat apparatus and rubber mold
4. No. 200 sieve
5. Mixing container/metal tray
6. Spatula
7. Tin cans

Procedure:

1. Testing of fineness of cement (350 gm)

2. Weigh about 300 gm of cement accurately and make a paste with
0.85 times the water required to make consistency.
3. The paste is then place in the rubber mold.
4. The end of the rod is brought in contract with the surface of the paste
and quickly released.
5. The penetration of the needle can be on the goals. the initial test is
said to have occurred when the needle ceases to pass a point 5 mm
above the bottom of the mold.

For ordinary Portland cement, the initial setting time should be less than 30
minutes.

Experiment No. 16
TITLE :

Objective :

Figure:

Data:

Experiment No. 17
 Consistency of Standard Cement Paste

Discussion:

Consistency, one property of the fresh concrete, is an important

consideration in securing workable concrete that can be properly compacted in
the forms. The term Consistency relates to the state of fluidity of the mix and
embraces the range of fluidity from the driest to the wettest mixtures.

The common tests to determine consistency are the “slump test” and the ball
“penetration test”. These tests sieve only rough measures of consistency, but do
give satisfactory measures of this property for most practical work.

For convenience, various degrees of wetness of a mix may be roughly

classified as dry, stiff, medium wet or sloppy. A concrete is said to have medium
or plastic consisitency then it is just wet enough to flow sluggishly –not so dry
that it crumbles or so wet or paste runs from the mass.

The principal factors affecting consistency are (1) the relative proportions
of cement to aggregate (2) the water content of aggregate (3) the size of
aggregate (4) the shape and surface characteristics of the aggregate particles
and (4)the fineness and type of cement and the kind and amount of a mixture.

The aim of this mixture is to find out for a given cement the quantity of
water to be mix to give a paste of normal consistency.

Essential Materials and Apparatus:

1. Sample of Portland cement

2. Balance, sensitive to 0.1 gm.
3. Vicat’s apparatus
4. Spatula

Essential Procedure:

1. Weigh accurately about 300gm. of neat cement sample to be tested.

2. Mix about 25% of clean water to the cement by means of spatula.
3. After about half minute, mix it thoroughly with hands for at least one
minute.
4. The kneaded paste is formed into ball and passed about six times from
one hand to another.
5. The larger and the rod is brought in contact with the surface of the paste
and reading on the scale is taken.
 6. The rod is then quickly released without any jerk and penetration noted. If
the rod penetrated by 33 to 36 mm. the paste is said to be” Normal
Consistency”.
7. The time taken between adding of water to cement and the falling of the
mold should be between 3 to 5 minutes .
8. Trial paste should be made with varying percentage of water to determine
the percentage for which the desired penetration is obtained. The amount
of water is expressed as percentage by weight of dry cement usually 30%.
9.

Approximate range in slump of concrete for various degrees of consistency.

Consistency Lump (mm) Remarks

Dry Crumbles and falls part under

ordinary handling; can be
compacted into rigid mass under
vigorous ramming, heavy pressure
or vibration, but unless care is used
Stiff 15-65 Tend to stand as a pile; holds
together fairly well but crumbles if
chuted; with care and effort can be
tamped into solid dense mass;
satisfactory for vibratory
compaction.
Medium 65-125 Alternate terms; plastic, mushy
quaking. Easily molded although
some care required to secure
complete compaction.
Wet 125-200 Fire flattens readily when dumped;
can be poured into place.
Sloppy 175-250 Grout or mortar tend to run out of
file, leaving coater material behind.

Experiment No. 17

TITLE :

Objective :
Figure:

Data:

Calculations:
Analysis/Conclusion:

Experiment 18

False Set in Cement

Discussion:
 To ensure sufficient time to place concrete while it remains plastic,
a minimum limit is imposed on the time of “initial” set, which may be taken
as the condition of the mass when it begins to stiffen appreciable. ASTM
specification requires that initial set should not taken place within one
hour. Depending on the test used to determine it, initial set usually takes
place within two to four hours. To ensure that the cement will harden for
use, a maximum limit is imposed on the time of “final” set. ASTM
specification required that final set occurs within five to eight hours. The
condition of initial and final set is determined by the penetration of
standard needle or rods into a “heat” (straight) paste of specified
consistency.

Essential Materials and Apparatus:

1. Sample of Portland cement

2. Balance, sensitive to 0.1 gm
3. Vicat’s apparatus
4. Spatula
5. Mixing container
Essential Procedure:

1. Take a cement sample about 500 gms in weight.

2. Make a conical pile ad mix in water
3. Place the mixture in a rubber mold and level the top.
4. Place it in the Vicat’s apparatus. The larger and should be placed in
contact of the surface of the mixture and the reading should be set to zero
mark.
5. Release the plunged and another 30 seconds, read the reading of the
scale. The reading should not be read less than 35 ± 2 mm.
The difference of the first and the final testing in the X7icat needle reading
should not exceed 17 mm.

Experiment No. 18

TITLE :
Objective :

Figure:

Data:

Calculations:
Analysis/Conclusion:

Experiment No. 19

Initial Set of Cement

Discussion:

The initial set is a stage in the process of hardening after which any
cracks that may appear will not reunite.

The concrete is said to be finally set when it has attained sufficient

strength and hardness.

Essential Materials and Apparatus:

6. Sample of Portland cement

7. Balance sensitive to 0.1 gm
8. Vicat’s apparatus
9. # 200 sieve
10. Spatula

Essential Procedure:

8. Test for fineness of cement (350 gm.).

9. Weigh about 300 gm of cement accurately and make a paste with 0.85
times the water required to make paste of normal consistency.
10. The paste is then placed in the rubber mold.
11. The small end of the rod is brought in contact with the surface of the
paste and quickly released.
12. The penetration of the needle can be read on the scale. The initial set is
said to have occurred when the needle ceases to pass a point 5 mm
above the bottom of the mold.
13. The time taken from the instant of adding water to the cement up to the
moment when the needle ceases to penetrate a point 5 mm above the
bottom of the mold is known as the initial setting of the cement.
For the ordinary Portland cement, the initial setting time should not be
less than 30 minutes

Experiment No. 19

TITLE : ____________________________________________________
Objective : ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

Figure:

Data:

Calculations:
Analysis/ Conclusion:

Experiment No. 20

Compressive Strength of Concrete

Discussion:

The objective of this experiment is to determine the compressive strength

of the concrete, to observe the behavior and study the fracture of the concrete
under compressive loading

Essential Apparatus:

1. Testing machine with 200,000 lbs. capacity or compressive machine

2. Concrete cylinder
3. Capping Apparatus
4. Compressometer

Procedure:

1. Remove the concrete cylinder from the curing room.

2. Cap the concrete cylinder.
3. Attach the compressometer to the cylinder. Make sure that the
compressometer is properly positioned and the dial gage attached to the
compressometer will response properly.
4. Place the cylinder in the loading machine. Zero the load needle. Adjust the
loading head until a small load (about 50lbs.) is applied to the cylinder.
Zero the dial gage reading. For high strength concrete (above 4,000 psi
compressive strength) it is advisable to place the protecting shield
between the cylinder and the observer.
5. Apply compressive load slowly and continuously until the maximum load
(failure) is reached. During the testing take simultaneous load readings
from the load dial and the defection readings from deflection gages at
intervals indicated by laboratory instructor. Record the loads and the
corresponding deflection reading on the data sheet. Failure of the cylinder
is imminent during the test when the load indicator is lowly down and
finally stops while the deformations indicated in the deflection gage
continues an increasing rate. When the load indicator starts to drop from
the maximum value, stop and then release the compressive load then
raise the loading load. Record the maximum load in the data sheet.
6. Remove the cylinder from the testing machine, detach the
compressometer from the cylinder, put the cylinder back in the machine,
and reapply the compressive load until the cylinder is totally crushed.
 Release the load and raise the loading head. Examine closely the type of
failure of the cylinder.

Types of Failure in Compressive

Crushing

This term shall be used when the plane of rupture is approximately

horizontal

Wedge Split

The direction of the split, that is whether radiator tangential shall be

noted.

Shearing

This term shall be used when the plane rupture makes an angle of
more than 45° with the top of the specimen.

Splitting

This type of failure usually occurs in specimen having internal

defects prior to test and shall be the basis for cutting the specimen.

Compressive and Shearing Parallel to Grain

This failure usually occurs in cross-grained pieces and shall be the

basis for cutting the specimen.

Brooming or End-Rolling

This type of failure is usually associated with either on excess

moisture content at the ends of the specimen improper cutting of the
specimen or both. This is not an acceptable type of failure and
usually is associated with a reduced load. Consideration should be given to
remedial conditions when this type of failure is observed.

Experiment No. 20

TITLE : ____________________________________________________
Objective : ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
Figure:

Data:

Calculations:
Analysis/Conclusion:

Experiment No. 21

Determination of Tensile Strength

of Cylinder Concrete Specimen
Discussion:

This method of test covers the determination of the splitting tensile

strength of cylindrical concrete specimen such as molded cylinders and drilled
cases. This test is not as important as the compressive test of cylindrical
concrete samples since it will determine the split tensile strength of the concrete.

Standard No.: ASTM C 497-71

AASMTO T 198-74

Essential Equipment:

1. Testing Machine
2. Bearing Bar
3. Plywood Strips

Testing Procedure:

1. Measure the dimensions of the cylinder. Draw diamentral lines on each

end of the specimen in the axial plane.

2. Center one plywood strip along the center of the lower bearing block of
the testing machine. Place the cylinder on the plywood strip and align
so that the lines marked on the end of the specimen are vertical and
centered over the plywood strips. Place a second plywood strip
lengthwise on the cylinder and place a 2” x 12” steel bar over the
plywood strip. Lower the upper loading head until the assembly is
secured in the machine.

3. Apply the compressive load slowly and continuously until failure.

Record the maximum applied load. Examine the type of failure.

Computation:

Compute the split tensile strength St = 2P/nDL

 Where:
St = Splitting tensile strength
P = Maximum load applied
L = Length of concrete sample
D = Diameter of concrete sample

Experiment No. 21

TITLE : ____________________________________________________
Objective : ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

Figure:

Data:

Calculations:
Analysis/Conclusion:

Experiment No. 22

Test for Flexural Strength of Concrete

Discussion:
 This method covers the determination of the flexural strength of
small size concrete specimen by the use of sample beam with center point
loading.

Standard No. : ASTH C 496-71

AASMTO T 198-74

Essential Equipment:

1. Testing machine
2. Flexural testing machine attachment

Testing Procedure:

1. Measure the dimensions of the beam and record them in the data
sheet.
2. Place the concrete beam in the flexural attachment and position the
assembly in the compression machine. Adjust the loading head
until it is contact with the top of the assembly.
3. Apply load slowly until beam breaks. Examine the type of failure.
Record the maximum load.

Computation:

Compute methods of Rapture (maximum flexural stress)

MR = 3PL / 2bh2

Where:

MR = Modulus of rapture
P = Maximum load applied
L = Span length
b = Average width of specimen
h = Average depth of specimen

Experiment No. 22

TITLE : ____________________________________________________
Objective : ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

Figure:

Data:

Calculations:
Analysis/Conclusion:

Experiment No. 23

Determination of Compressive
Strength of Concrete Hollow Blocks

Discussion:
 This test seeks to determine the ultimate compressive strength of
concrete hollow blocks. The procedure of the test is similar to the test for
compressive strength of concrete.

Essential Equipment:

Compression Machine

Testing Procedure:

1. Place the bottom of a concrete hollow block on a compression block

made of 1-inch plywood. Place another 1-inch plywood on top of the
concrete hollow block.

2. Apply the compression load on the plywood until failure is attained.

3. Test a total of three hollow blocks for each batch.

Computation:

1. Compute the ultimate compressive stress of concrete hollow blocks.

Ultimate compressive strength = Maximum Compressive Load

Area of Hollow blocks

2. Compute the average value for the three samples tested.

Experiment No. 23

TITLE : ____________________________________________________
Objective : ____________________________________________________
 ____________________________________________________

Figure:

Data:

Calculations:
Analysis/Conclusion:

Experiment No. 24

Tension Test of Steel

Discussion:
 This purpose of this exercise is to determine the strength and
elastic and inelastic behavior of steel. The exercise will also be the basis
for the student to observe the behavior of the materials under load and to
study the fracture of the materials.

Standard No. : ASTM E B-89

AASMTO T69-74

Essential Equipment:

1. Universal Testing Machine

2. Mechanical and Electronic Extensometer
3. Micrometer

Testing Procedure:

1. Determine the average cross-sectional dimensions of the specimen

with micrometer. Use gage punch to place the gage marks two
inches apart. Measure the exact gage length using the mechanical
extensometer. Record the gage length in the data sheet.

2. Place the specimen in the grips, make sure that the threaded ends
of the grips are threaded completely on to pull rods and that the
spherical seats are likewise threaded completely onto the pull rods
so as to assure that the threads will not be stripped during the
loading operation. The spherical seats insure that the loading will be
purely tensile in nature and that no bending moments will be
induced.
3. Attach the electronic extensometer securely to the specimen.
Connect the extensometer cable to the recorder. It is assumed that
the testing machine has been turned on. Adjust the extensometer so
that the drum in the recorder is activated.
4. Estimate the proportional limit and maximum load the specimen may
take and select a suitable load range accordingly on the testing
machine and a suitable load scale and deflection scale in the
recorder.
5. Apply a small load to the specimen and adjust the extensometer
such that at a small load, the read-out mechanism in the recorder
are fully activated. The pen movement is driven by the loading dial
while the drum movement is driven by the extensometer movement.
6. Apply tensile load slowly and continuously until the maximum range
of the recorder movement has been reaches, or the maximum load
has been reached. Stop the machine (but hold the load) and remove
 the extensometer. Measure the gage length of the specimen using
mechanical extensometer. Record that in data sheet.
7. Resume the load and take simultaneous reading of deformation
(using the mechanical extensometer) and load until the maximum
load has been reached. Continue to load the specimen slowly to
failure without taking any additional deformation reading. At this
stage, a necked region in tire specimen should be visible and final
fracture should occur in this region. Record the maximum load and
breaking load.
8. Remove the broken specimen from the machine. Observe location
and measure the gage length. Record that in the data sheet.
9. Plot two stress-strain curve. Compute all properties called for.

Experiment No. 24

TITLE : ____________________________________________________
Objective : ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

Figure:

Data:

Calculations:
Analysis/Conclusion:

Experiment No. 25

Penetration of Bituminous Materials

Discussion:
 This method describes a procedure for determining the penetration of semi-
solid and solid bituminous materials.

Standard No. ASTM D 5-73

AASMTO T 49-74

Essential Equipments:

1. Penetration Apparatus

2. Penetration Needle

3. Sample Container

4. Water Bath

5. Transfer Dish

6. Timing Device

7. Thermometer

Testing Procedure:

1. Heat the sample with care, stirring when possible to prevent local
overheating, until it has become sufficiently fluid to pour.
2. Pour the sample into the container to the depth such that, when cooled to
the temperature of the test, the depth of the sample is atleast 10 mm.
greater than the depth to which the needle is expected to penetrate.
3. Pour two separates portioned for each variation in test conditions.
4. Loosely cover each container as a protection against dust and allow to
cool in an atmosphere at a temperature between 15 and 300 to 1 1/2 for
the small container and 1 1/2 to 2 for the larger.
5. Then place the two sample together with the transfer disk, if used, in the
water bath maintained at the prescribed temperature of test. Allow the
smaller (3 oz.) container to remain for 1-1/2 hour and the larger (6 oz.)
 container to remain for 1 1/2 - 2 hours.
6. Clean the penetration needle with tolueness or other suitable solvent, dry
with a clean cloth, and insert the needle in penetrometer. Unless
otherwise specified place the 50 gm. weight above the needle, making the
total load of 100 gms. for needle and attachment.

Experiment No. 25

TITLE : ____________________________________________________
Objective : ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
Figure:

Data:

Computation:
Analysis/Conclusion: