Relative density is used to calculate the volume occupied by the aggregate in a concrete mix. Since concrete is often sold by volume but batched by weight, knowing the precise density is essential for accurate yields.
Fill a conical mold with the sand and tamp it 25 times.
The increase in mass of the aggregate due to water in the pores, expressed as a percentage of the dry mass. Standard Test Procedure The test generally follows these sequential steps: Preparation: Oven-dry approximately 500g of the sample at to a constant mass, then cool to room temperature. Soaking: Submerge the sample in water for hours to ensure full saturation.
For measuring the displacement of water by the aggregate.
The data obtained from this test is crucial for engineers and batch plant operators for two primary reasons:
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This standard is critical in concrete and asphalt mix design. Unlike coarse aggregates (ASTM C127), fine aggregates (sand) have a much larger surface area and different packing characteristics, requiring a distinct testing procedure (using a pycnometer).