CE8: Construction Materials and Testing

SIEVE ANALYSIS OF
FINE AND COURSE
AGGREGATES
LABORATORY REPORT NO. 1

ABSTRACT
Sieve analysis is a method used to evaluate the
gradation or the particle size distribution of
aggregates material. In this experiment, we utilize
various sieves and then let the aggregates pass
through them (by shaking) and thus collecting and
weighing the retained particles. The data gathered
will be used to determine the fineness modulus (FM) of
the sample and other parameters — effective size,
coefficient of gradation, and uniformity coefficient. It
will also be used to plot the Grain Size Distribution
Curve of both the samples that will be used to classify
the aggregates as well or poorlygraded.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE

"This test method is used primarily to determine the
grading of materials proposed for use as aggregates
or being used as aggregates. The results are used to
determine compliance of the particle size distribution
with applicable specification requirements and to
provide necessary data for control of the production
of various aggregate products and mixtures
containing aggregates. The data may also be useful in
developing relationships concerning porosity and
packing.” -- ASTM C136

STANDARD REFERENCE
ASTM C136 - 06: Standard Test Method for Sieve
Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregates

MHARVINA JACKIE M. CASIMIRO

21-1085
BSCE3-4

Submitted to:
ENGR. DARRELL JOHN O. BANDINO
 CE8: CMT SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE AND COARSE AGGREGATES

I. OBJECTIVES
This laboratory is done to plot each aggregate grain size
distribution curves, which will determine the grading of materials to
be used as aggregates. It guarantees that the grain size distribution
complies with the necessary standards and offers the data required to
regulate the composition of different aggregate products and mixtures
containing aggregate. Other parameters, such as the effective size,
coefficient of gradation, and uniformity coefficient, as well as the
fineness modulus, will also be determined. It is also for students to
put test methods like ASTM C702 and ASTM C136 into practice, as well
as appreciate the materials used in real-world structures and provide
knowledge on how aggregates are used and tested.

II. EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE

A. Materials and Equipment

FINE AGGREGATES
a. 5kg sand
b. Balance Weighing Scale, accurate to
0.1% of the sample weight
c. Tray
d. Trowel
e. Spatula or brush for cleaning sieves
f. Bottle of Denatured Alcohol
g. Long Lighter
h. Fire Extinguisher
i. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
safety glass
gloves
j. Sieves
9.5 mm
4.75 mm
2.36 mm
0.85 mm
0.6 mm
0.3 mm
0.15 mm

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 CE8: CMT SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE AND COARSE AGGREGATES

COARSE AGGREGATES
a. 5kg gravel
b. Balance Weighing Scale, accurate to
0.1% of the sample weight
c. Tray
d. Trowel
e. Spatula or brush for cleaning sieves
f. Bottle of Denatured Alcohol
g. Long Lighter
h. Fire Extinguisher
i. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
safety glass
gloves
j. Sieves
37.5 mm
26.9 mm
19 mm
12.5 mm
9.5 mm
4.75 mm

B . M e t h o d o l o g y
FOR BOTH FINE AND COARSE AGGREGATES:
SAMPLE PREPARATION
In the metal tray, place a sample of aggregates weighing no more than 5kg.
Then, the sample you obtain must be subjected to ASTM C702 testing using the
Quartering Method.

QUARTERING METHOD
1. Mix the sample thoroughly on a clean, flat, non-absorbent surface.
2. Form the aggregate sample into a cone shape with a shovel or scoop.
3. Form a material circle by flattening the cone..
4. Using a shovel or spatula, divide the flattened circle into four equal
quarters.
5. For your test sample, select two opposing quarters.
6. Repeat the quartering process if the test sample remains too large.
Once sample preparation is complete, use a balance weighing scale to determine
the mass of the sample you obtained using the quartering method. In accordance
with the guidelines in ASTM C136 for sample mass based on aggregate size, this
mass will serve as the initial reference in getting the constant mass of the
sample in the Sample Drying process.

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 CE8: CMT SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE AND COARSE AGGREGATES

DRYING THE SAMPLE AND DETERMINING THE MASS OF

THE SAMPLE
Heat the aggregates with denatured alcohol and a long lighter. Wearing
personal protective equipment while performing this procedure is required
as this might get dangerous if not done properly.
If the sample has been dried, weigh it to determine the sample’s mass. In
this part, the mass have decreased from the initial mass reference.
Repeat the heating procedure until the mass of the aggregates remained
constant.
SIEVE ANALYSIS
Place the sieves in descending order, with the pan at the bottom and the
sieves with the largest openings at the top.
Fill the top sieve with the sample.
Shake the stacked sieves manually for a few minutes.
Remove each sieve carefully after shaking.
Weigh and record the mass of aggregates retained on each sieve. Make sure
before weighing the mass of the aggregates, there is no residue left on the
sieve. Make use of brush if there is any.

D a t a A n a l y s i s
AGGREGATES RETAINED IN SIEVE
(EQUATION 1)

PERCENTAGE RETAINED (per sieve)

(EQUATION 2)

PERCENTAGE FINENESS
FOR THE FIRST SIEVE: (EQUATION 3)

FOR THE SUCCEEDING SIEVES: (EQUATION 4)

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CE8: CMT SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE AND COARSE AGGREGATES

CUMULATIVE PERCENT RETAINED (per

sieve)
(EQUATION 5)

FINENESS MODULUS

(EQUATION 6)

PERCENTAGE ERROR

(EQUATION 7)

TREND LINE FUNCTION

(EQUATION 8)

where: a & b = constants

y= Percentage Fineness of Aggregate (i.e. 10,30, 60)
x= unknown diameter (mm)

EFFECTIVE SIZE
(EQUATION 9)

COEFFICIENT OF GRADATION

(EQUATION 10)

UNIFORMITY COEFFICIENT

(EQUATION 11)

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 CE8: CMT SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE AND COARSE AGGREGATES

III. DATA AND RESULTS

FINE AGGREGATES
INITIAL MASS OF SAMPLE = 1.603 kg
Table 1. Sieve Analysis for Fine Aggregates

Table 2. Data used for Plotting the Graph and Computing for the Fineness
Modulus

Using Equations 6 and 7, the Percentage Error and the Fineness

Modulus are 0% and 3.21%, respectively.

Figure 1. Grain Size Distribution Curve of Fine Aggregates

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 CE8: CMT SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE AND COARSE AGGREGATES

Trend Line Function: y=24.904ln(X)+51.019

Using Equation 8, the values of the diameters are:
Table 3. Computed Diameter for 10%, 30%, 60% Percentage Passed

Knowing the values of D10, D30, ad D60 and using Equation 9, 10 and 11:
Table 4. Computed Values for Effective Size, Coefficient of Gradation
and Uniformity

COARSE AGGREGATES
INITIAL MASS OF SAMPLE = 0.953 kg
Table 4. Sieve Analysis for Coarse Aggregates

Table 5. Data used for Plotting the Graph and Computing for the Fineness
Modulus

Using Equations 6 and 7, the Percentage Error and the Fineness

Modulus are 0% and 2.86%, respectively.

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 CE8: CMT SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE AND COARSE AGGREGATES

Figure 2. Grain Size Distribution Curve of Coarse Aggregates

Trend Line Function: y=54.701ln(X)-95.285

Using Equation 8, the values of the diameters are:
Table 6. Computed Diameter for 10%, 30%, 60% Percentage Passed

Knowing the values of D10, D30, ad D60 and using Equation 9, 10 and 11:
Table 7. Computed Values for Effective Size, Coefficient of Gradation
and Uniformity

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 CE8: CMT SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE AND COARSE AGGREGATES

IV. DISCUSSION
This laboratory's findings revealed the grain size
distribution of each aggregate, fine and coarse. The grain size
distribution curve determines aggregate grading, which is a
major factor in determining the proportion of materials in a
concrete mix and, as a result, influences the strength and
performance of concrete structures.
Table 2 shows that the aggregate percentage fineness for
Sieve No. 3/8 and No. 4 does not fall within the ASTM C33
boundaries, with errors of 97.101 and 91.083, respectively.
These two values are outside of the ASTM C33 standard range. -
Sieve No. 3/8 has a range of only 100, whereas Sieve No. 4 has a
range of 95.00 to 100. However, in Table 5, the percentage
fineness calculated on the stated sieves does not fall within
the ASTM C33 standards boundaries from Sieve No. 1.06 to Sieve
No. 3/8.
Furthermore, the fineness modulus in fine and coarse
aggregates is 3.21% and 2.86%, respectively. Knowing the typical
fineness modulus values of fine sand (2.20 to 2.60), medium sand
(2.60 to 2.90), and coarse sand (2.90 to 3.20) for fine
aggregates, we may deduce that the fine aggregate samples are
coarse sand.
Moreover, in accordance with the Unified Soil
Classification System standards the coefficient of uniformity
(Cu) and gradation (Cg) must be determined in order to
distinguish whether the aggregates are well-graded and poorly
graded. Sand is considered well-graded if the Cu value is
greater than 6 and the Cg value is between 1 and 3. Cu should be
greater than 4 and Cg should be between 1 and 3 for gravel to be
considered well-graded. For fine aggregates, it has a Cg and Cu
of 0.669 and 7.446, respectively. It is considered poorly graded
because its coefficient of gradation does not meet the UCSC
standards. Coarse aggregates, on the other hand, have Cg and Cu
values of 0.833 and 2.494, respectively. As a result, the coarse
aggregates sample is of poor quality.

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 CE8: CMT SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE AND COARSE AGGREGATES

V. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

Based on the data and results of this experiment, both
aggregates do not have a percentage error, which may be due to
proper sieve shaking during the experiment. The fine modulus of
fine and coarse aggregates is 3.21% and 2.86%, respectively. The
fineness modulus is said to be a measure of an aggregate's
fineness. The fineness modulus increases with aggregate
coarseness. However, based on the results, the fineness modulus
of fine aggregates is greater than that of coarse aggregates.
This could be due to particle distribution difference in both
aggregates during the sieving process. Additionally, it is
implied that both aggregates are poorly graded because neither
aggregate satisfies the USCS standards for uniformity or the
coefficient of gradation.
In conducting this laboratory, determining the grading of
the aggregates using ASTM C136 is an important factor as it
calculates and displays the grain size distribution curve for
each aggregate. As a result, the proportion of materials in a
concrete mix, as well as its grading, may affect the strength
and performance of concrete structures.

VI. LABORATORY SUGGESTIONS

1. Using an oven for sample drying eliminates the need to use
denatured alcohol and lighter to dry the sample, which can
cause fire and, if not done properly, can cause disruption
and trouble.
2. Better laboratory materials or a better location in the
laboratory, as the digital balance weighing scale used may
have caused inaccuracy due to its sensitivity to slight
movement or wind.
OTHER REFERENCES:
Gilson Company Inc. (2018, March 29). Standard Method for Sieve Analysis of
Fine and Coarse Aggregates (ASTM C136) [Video]. YouTube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Xqq1cxhD-s
Poudel, E. M. (2022, June 23). Unified Soil Classification System (USCS) :
With 3 Major Divisions » Explaiiation With Charts. Dream Civil : Civil
Engineering & Construction Informations. https://dreamcivil.com/unified-soil-
classification-system/

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 CE8: CMT SIEVE ANALYSIS OF FINE AND COARSE AGGREGATES

VI. DOCUMENTATION

MHARVINA JACKIE M. CASIMIRO I LABORATORY REPORT NO. 1 I PAGE 10

 CE8: Construction Materials and Testing

RELATIVE DENSITY (SPECIFIC

GRAVITY) AND ABSORPTION OF
COURSE AGGREGATES
LABORATORY REPORT NO. 2
ABSTRACT
Relative density and absorption percentage of aggregates
will be determined in this laboratory. The relative density
(specific gravity) of an aggregate is the ratio of its mass to
the mass of an equal absolute volume of water. It is used in
certain computations for mixture proportioning and control,
such as the volume occupied by the aggregate in the
absolute volume method of mix design. On the other hand,
The absorption and surface moisture of aggregates should
be determined according to ASTM C 70, C 127, C 128, and
C 566 (AASHTO T 255) so that the total water content of
the concrete can be controlled and correct batch weights
determined. The internal structure of an aggregate particle
is made up of solid matter and voids that may or may not
contain water. In this laboratory, the importance of this two
properties will be discussed and will show the process on
how the ASTM C127 works.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE

“This test method covers the determination of relative
density (specific gravity) and the absorption of coarse
aggregates. Relative density is used to calculate the
volume occupied by the aggregate in various mixtures
containing aggregate, including hydraulic cement
concrete, bituminous concrete, and other mixtures that are
proportioned or analyzed on an absolute volume basis.
Relative density (specific gravity) is also used in the
computation of voids in aggregate in Test Method
C29/C29M. Relative density (specific gravity) (SSD) is used
if the aggregate is in a saturated-surface-dry condition,
that is, if its absorption has been satisfied. Alternatively, the
relative density (specific gravity) (OD) is used for
computations when the aggregate is dry or assumed to be
dry.”-- ASTM C127

STANDARD REFERENCE
ASTM C127-15: Standard Test Method for Relative Density
(Specific Gravity) and Absorption of Coarse Aggregate

MHARVINA JACKIE M. CASIMIRO

21-1085
BSCE3-4
Submitted to:
ENGR. DARRELL JOHN O. BANDINO
 CE8: CMT RELATIVE DENSITY (SPECIFIC GRAVITY) AND ABSORPTION OF COARSE AGGREGATES

I. OBJECTIVES
This laboratory aims to put into practice the ASTM C127,a
standard test method for Relative Density and Absorption of coarse
aggregates in order for students to appreciate the materials used in
real-world structures and provide knowledge on how aggregates are used
and tested. It is also to assess and distinguish the values and the
significance of specific gravity and absorption in the aggregate
samples' physical properties and characteristics.

II. EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE

A. Materials and Equipment

a. Digital balance
b. Hydrostatic balance
c. 5kg gravel
d. Long lighter
e. Denatured alcohol
f. Wire basket
g. Fabric gloves
h. Small trowel
i. Piece of cloth
j. Tap water
k. Sieve with 4.75 mm nominal diameter
l. pail

B . M e t h o d o l o g y
In the metal tray, place a sample of aggregates weighing no more than 5kg.
Then, the sample you obtain must be subjected to ASTM C702 testing using
the Quartering Method.

QUARTERING METHOD
1. Mix the sample thoroughly on a clean, flat, non-absorbent surface.
2. Form the aggregate sample into a cone shape with a shovel or scoop.
3. Form a material circle by flattening the cone..
4. Using a shovel or spatula, divide the flattened circle into four equal
quarters.
5. For your test sample, select two opposing quarters.
6. Repeat the quartering process if the test sample remains too large.

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 CE8: CMT RELATIVE DENSITY (SPECIFIC GRAVITY) AND ABSORPTION OF COARSE AGGREGATES

After reducing the sample you obtain using the quartering method, put the
remaining sample in the Sieve No. 1/5 with nominal diameter of 4.75 mm and
shake it until there is no aggregates passing through the mesh of the
sieve.
Proceed to washing up the sample to eliminate the dust particles within the
aggregates.
After washing the sample, dry the sample using the denatured alcohol and
long lighter. Dry it until it reached its constant mass.
Then, get a pail and place the sample in it. Pour water in it and let it
soaked for 24-hours.
After 24-hours, dry the sample using a piece of cloth to remove excess
water.
Weigh the sample with a hydrostatic balance in SSD mode and record the data
to the nearest 10 g or 0.1 (as per ASTM C127, 0.5% or 0.05%).
Put the sample in the mesh wire basket. Submerge it in water. Then, shake
the mesh wire basket to release any trapped air and determine the mass in
water.
Dry the sample with denatured alcohol and a long lighter. Take the sample's
mass after one drying cycle. Continue doing so until the sample reaches a
constant mass.
Determine the specific gravity (SSD) and absorption percentage.

D a t a A n a l y s i s
SPECIFIC GRAVITY (SSD)

(EQUATION 1)

ABSORPTION PERCENTAGE

(EQUATION 2)

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 CE8: CMT RELATIVE DENSITY (SPECIFIC GRAVITY) AND ABSORPTION OF COARSE AGGREGATES

III. DATA AND RESULTS

MASS OF TRAY = 1292.13 g
Table 1. Mass of Aggregates in each Sample Drying Process

A. Mass of Oven - Dry Test Sample = 2844.45 g

B. Mass of Saturated Surface Dry Test Sample in Air = 2861.50 g
B. Mass of Test Sample in Water = 1807.60 g

Using Equations 1 and 2, the Bulk Specific Gravity (SSD) and the
Absorption Percentage are 2.715 and 0.599%, respectively.

IV. DISCUSSION
The results of this laboratory revealed that the sample's Bulk Specific
Gravity (SSD) and Absorption Percentage are 2.715 and 0.599%, respectively.
The typical range of specific gravity for aggregates used in construction,
according to ASTM C127, is from 2.5 to 3.0, with an average of 2.65-2.70. It
may be implied that because the calculated Bulk Specific Gravity (SSD) is
within the range of typical aggregates, it is suitable for use in
construction, as specific gravity of an aggregate is considered to be a
measure of strength or quality of the material. It is feasible that issues
won't arise as frequently.
On the other hand, the absorption ratio of coarse aggregate can vary
from 0.2-1.8% but a value of not more than 0.60 is recommended to avoid
aggregate problems. In this case, the calculated absorption ratio has a lower
absorption rate as the high water-absorption of lightweight aggregate causes a
high slump loss and poor workability of concrete.

V. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

The ASTM C127 test enables the civil engineer to understand the
significance of an aggregate's specific gravity and absorption rate
calculations. A material's specific gravity is thought to be a measure of its
strength or quality. Low specific gravity aggregates are typically weaker than
high specific gravity aggregates. This characteristic contributes to the
overall distinction between aggregates. Furthermore, water absorption provides
information about the internal structure of the aggregate. More porous

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 CE8: CMT RELATIVE DENSITY (SPECIFIC GRAVITY) AND ABSORPTION OF COARSE AGGREGATES
aggregates, which are more absorbent by nature, are typically thought to be
inappropriate unless they successfully pass tests for strength, impact, and
hardness. Thus, making the specific gravity and absorption percentage as one
of the factors necessary to consider to civil engineering field works or
construction. .

VI. LABORATORY SUGGESTIONS

1. Using an oven for sample drying eliminates the need to use denatured
alcohol and lighter to dry the sample, which can cause fire and, if not
done properly, can cause disruption and trouble.
2. Better laboratory materials or a better location in the laboratory, as the
digital balance weighing scale used may have caused inaccuracy due to its
sensitivity to slight movement or wind.
OTHER REFERENCES:
Standard test method for relative density (Specific gravity) and absorption of
coarse aggregate. (n.d.). Gilson Company Inc. (2018, March 29). Standard
Method for Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregates (ASTM C136) [Video].
YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Xqq1cxhD-s
James Lee. (2014, April 19). AASHTO T85 ASTM C127 [Video]. YouTube. Standard
test method for Sieve analysis of fine and coarse aggregates. (n.d.). Standard
test method for Sieve analysis of fine and coarse aggregates. (n.d.)
Standard test method for relative density (Specific gravity) and absorption of
coarse aggregate. (n.d.). https://www.astm.org/c0127-15.html

VII. DOCUMENTATION

MHARVINA JACKIE M. CASIMIRO I LABORATORY REPORT NO. 2 I PAGE 04