Aggregate Testing

IS 2386 (all parts)

Aggregate is defined as fragmented pieces of stone or rock, from a natural source or prepared to pre-defined sizes, broadly categorised as coarse aggregate and fine aggregate. It is the key ingredient of cement mortar and cement concrete, and of rigid and flexible pavements — its characteristics govern the overall quality and project economy of the materials built with it.

We test both fine and coarse aggregate to the IS 2386 series: sieve analysis, fineness modulus, silt content, bulk density, specific gravity, water absorption, and mechanical strength (impact, crushing, abrasion and shape).

Tests in this category

Fine Aggregate Testing

Grading, silt content, density and quality testing of sand for concrete and mortar.

IS 2386 (all parts) / IS 383

Coarse Aggregate Testing

Grading, shape, strength and durability testing of crushed stone aggregate.

IS 2386 (all parts) / IS 383

Sieve Analysis (Fine Aggregate)

Particle size distribution and fineness modulus of sand.

IS 2386 (Part 1)

Sieve Analysis (Coarse Aggregate)

Particle size distribution and nominal maximum size of coarse aggregate.

IS 2386 (Part 1)

Water Absorption (Fine Aggregate)

Percentage of water absorbed by sand when soaked to a saturated surface-dry condition.

IS 2386 (Part 3)

Water Absorption (Coarse Aggregate)

Percentage of water absorbed by coarse aggregate when soaked to a saturated surface-dry condition.

IS 2386 (Part 3)

Specific Gravity (Fine Aggregate)

Ratio of the density of sand to the density of water, determined using a pycnometer.

IS 2386 (Part 3)

Specific Gravity (Coarse Aggregate)

Ratio of the density of coarse aggregate to the density of water, determined by the wire-basket method.

IS 2386 (Part 3)

Bulk Density and Voids (Fine Aggregate)

Mass of sand per unit volume in loose and compacted states, and the resulting voids ratio.

IS 2386 (Part 3)

Bulk Density and Voids (Coarse Aggregate)

Mass of coarse aggregate per unit volume in loose and compacted states, and the resulting voids ratio.

IS 2386 (Part 3)

Flakiness Index

Percentage by weight of aggregate particles whose thickness is less than 0.6 times their mean sieve size.

IS 2386 (Part 1)

Elongation Index

Percentage by weight of aggregate particles whose length exceeds 1.8 times their mean sieve size.

IS 2386 (Part 1)

Aggregate Crushing Value

Resistance of aggregate to gradual crushing load, expressed as a percentage of fines produced.

IS 2386 (Part 4)

Aggregate Impact Value

Resistance of aggregate to sudden shock/impact loading, expressed as a percentage of fines produced.

IS 2386 (Part 4)

Ten Percent Fines Value

The load required to produce 10% fines in the crushing-value apparatus, used for weaker aggregates.

IS 2386 (Part 4)

Los Angeles Abrasion Value

Resistance of aggregate to abrasion and attrition in a rotating drum with steel balls.

IS 2386 (Part 4)