LAbORATORy WORK FOR TRANsPORTATION

ENGINEERING LAb
COuRsE CODE: CE514A

uNIVERsITy INsTITuTE OF TEChNOLOGy (uIT)

RAJIV GANDhI PROuDyOGIKI VIshWAVIDyALAyA (RGPV), bhOPAL

Name:…………………………………………………………

Semester and branch:………………………………………

Enrollment no.:………………………………………………

Year:…………………………………………………………

LAb MANuAL
DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING
UNIVERSITY INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, RGPV, BHOPAL
 INDEX

sL. NO. EXPERIMENTs PAGE NO. LEARNING

OuTCOME

Test on Aggregate
1 Aggregate crushing 1-2 Understating various
value test tests for
characterization of
2 Aggregate impact value 3-4
aggregate for road
test construction.
3 Los Angeles abrasion 5-6
test
4 Aggregate shape test 7-10

5 Soundness test of 11-13

aggregate

Tests on bitumen
6 Penetration test of 14-15 Understating various
bitumen tests for the
characterization of
7 Softening point test of 16-17 bitumen for road
bituminous material construction.
8 (a) Flash and fire point 18-19
test of bituminous
material

(b) Viscosity test of

bituminous material
9 Ductility test of 20-21
bitumen
10 MARSHALL STABILITY 22-23
TEST OF BITUMINOUS
MIX
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

Experiment No: 01
AGGREGATE CRUSHING VALUE TEST

Objective: To determine the crushing strength of a given aggregate sample IS Standards

used: IS-2386 Part- 4 and BS: 2009
Need and scope: This is one of the major mechanical properties required in a roadstone. The
test evaluates the aggregates' ability in road construction to withstand the stresses induced by
moving vehicles in the form of crushing. The aggregates should also provide sufficient
resistance to crushing under the roller during construction and under rigid tire rims of heavily
loaded animal-drawn vehicles. The crushing strength or aggregate crushing value of a given
road aggregate is found out as per IS-2386 Part- 4. The aggregate crushing value provides a
relative measure of resistance to crushing under a gradually applied compressive load. To
achieve a high quality of pavement aggregate possessing low aggregate crushing value should
be preferred. The aggregate crushing value of the coarse aggregates used for cement concrete
pavement at the surface should not exceed 30% and aggregates used for concrete other than
for wearing surfaces, shall not exceed 45% as specified by Indian Standard (IS) and Indian
Road Congress (IRC).
Apparatus:
1. A steel cylinder of internal diameter 15.2 cm (Steel cylinder with open ends).
2. A square base plate, plunger having a piston diameter of 15 cm.
3. A cylindrical measure of the internal diameter of 11.5 cm and height of 18 cm.
4. Steel tamping rod having a diameter of 1.6 cm and length 45 to 60 cm.
5. Balance of capacity 3 kg with accuracy up to 1 gm.
6. Compression testing machines capable of applying a load of 40 tonnes at a loading rate of
4 tonnes per minute.
Experimental Procedure:
1. The aggregate in surface-dry condition is selected before testing and passing the 12.5 mm
sieve and retained on a 10 mm sieve.
2. The cylindrical measure is filled by the test sample of the aggregate in three layers of
approximately equal depth, each layer being tamped 25 times by the rounded end of the
tamping rod. 2
3. After the third layer is tamped, the aggregates at the top of the cylindrical measure are
leveled off by using the tamping rod as a straight edge. Then the test sample is weighed. Let
that be W1 gm.
4. Then the cylinder of the test apparatus is kept on the base plate and one-third of the sample
from the cylindrical measure is transferred into a cylinder and tamped 25 times by the
rounded end of the tamping rod.

1
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

5. Similarly aggregate in three layers of approximately equal depth, each layer being tamped
25 times by the rounded end of the tamping rod.
6. Then the cylinder with the test sample and plunger in position is placed on the compression
testing machine.
7. Load is then applied through the plunger at a uniform rate of 4 tonnes per minute until the
total load is 40 tonnes and the load is released.
8. Aggregates including the crushed position are removed from the cylinder and sieved on a
2.36mm IS sieve and material, that passes this sieve, is collected and weighed. Let this be W2
gm.
9. The above step is repeated with a second sample of the same aggregate.
10. Then the aggregate crushing value is defined as the ratio of the weight of fines passing the
specified IS sieve (W2 gm) to the total weight of the sample (W1 gm)
11. Two tests are done and the average value to the nearest whole number is reported as the
aggregate abrasion value.
Calculations:
Aggregate crushing value (%) = (W2/W1)×100
Observations and Calculations:
Sample No Total weight of the Weight of fines Aggregate (%) Mean
dry aggregate passing through Crushing Value
sample (W1 gm). 2.36mm IS Value
Sieve (W2 gm)

2
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

Experiment No: 02
AGGREGATE IMPACT VALUE TEST

Objective: To estimate the aggregate impact value of a given sample. IS Standards used: IS:
2386(Part-4)-1963
Need and scope: The ‘Aggregate Impact Value’ gives a relative measure of the resistance of
an aggregate to sudden shock or impact, which in some aggregates differs from its resistance
to a slow compressive load. The property of a material to resist impact is known as
toughness. Due to the movement of vehicles on the road, the aggregates are subjected to
impact resulting in their breaking down into smaller pieces. The aggregates should therefore
have sufficient toughness to resist their disintegration due to impact. This characteristic is
measured by the impact value test. The aggregate impact value is a measure of resistance to
sudden impact or shock, which may differ from its resistance to gradually applied
compressive load.
Apparatus:
1. Impact Testing Machine: Impact testing machine conforming to IS: 2386 (Part IV) - 1963,
as shown in Figure 1.
2. Metal Cylinder: a cylindrical metal measure of 75 mm dia. and 50 mm depth.
3. Test Sieves: IS Sieves of the sizes and apertures appropriate to the specification of the
material to be tested, (Sieves of sizes–12.5 mm, 10 mm, and 2.36 mm).
4. A tamping rod of 10mm circular cross-section and 230mm length, rounded at one end and
Oven. 5. Balance: A balance of capacity not less than 500 g, readable and accurate to 0.1g.
6. Oven: A well-ventilated oven thermostatically controlled to maintain a temperature of 100
to 110ºC.

Figure 1: Impact Test Apparatus

3
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

Preparation of test sample:

1. The test sample shall consist of aggregate the whole of which passes a 12.5 mm IS Sieve
and is retained on a 10 mm IS Sieve. The aggregate comprising the test sample shall be dried
in an oven for a period of four hours at a temperature of 100 to 110 ºC and cooled.
2. The measure shall be filled about one-third full with the aggregate and tamped with 25
strokes of the rounded end of the tamping rod.
3. A further similar quantity of aggregate shall be added and a further tamping of 25 strokes
given. The measure shall finally be filled to overflowing, tamped 25 times and the surplus
aggregate struck off, using the tamping rod as a straight edge.
4. The net weight of aggregate in the measure shall be determined to the nearest gram
(Weight A) and this weight of aggregate shall be used for the duplicate test on the same
material.
Experimental Procedure:
1. The impact machine shall rest without wedging or packing upon the level plate, block or
floor so that it is rigid and the hammer guide columns are vertical.
2. The cup shall be fixed firmly in position on the base of the machine and the whole of the
test sample placed in it and compacted by a single tamping of 25 strokes of the tamping rod.
3. The hammer shall be raised until its lower face is 380 mm above the upper surface of the
aggregate in the cup, and allowed to fall freely onto the aggregate. The test sample shall be
subjected to a total of 15 such blows each being delivered at an interval of not less than one
second. 4. The crushed aggregate shall then be removed from the cup and the whole of it
sieved on the 2.36 mm IS Sieve until no further significant amount passes in one minute.
5. The fraction passing the sieve shall be weighed to an accuracy of 0.1 g (Weight B). The
fraction retained on the sieve shall also be weighed (Weight C) and, if the total weight (B+C)
is less than the initial weight (Weight A) by more than one gram, the result shall be discarded
and a fresh test made. 6. Two tests shall be conducted. Calculations: The ratio of the weight
of fines formed to the total sample weight in each test shall be expressed as a percentage, the
result being recorded to the first decimal place: Aggregate impact value = 𝐵 𝐴 × 100 Where,
B = weight of fraction passing 2.36 mm IS Sieve, and A = weight of an oven-dried sample.
Observations and Calculations:
Sample No Weight A Weight B Aggregate Avg. Aggregate
impact value impact value

The mean of the two results shall be reported to the nearest whole number as the aggregate
impact value of the tested material.
Average Aggregate impact value of aggregate sample 1 (%) =
Average Aggregate impact value of aggregate sample 2 (%) =

4
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

Experiment No: 03
LOS ANGELES ABRASION TEST

Objective: To determine the abrasion value of a given aggregate sample by conducting a Los
- Angeles abrasion test. IS Standards used: I.S.-2386 part-IV, ASTM C131.
Need and Scope: Abrasion is a measure of resistance to wear or hardness. It is an essential
property for road aggregates especially when used in wearing coarse. Due to the movements
of traffic, the road stones used in the surfacing course are subjected to wearing actions at the
top. When traffic moves on the road the soil particle (sand) that comes between the wheel and
the road surface causes abrasion on the road stone. The abrasion test on aggregate is found as
per I.S.-2386 part IV.
Abrasion tests on aggregates are generally carried out by any one of the following methods-
(i). Los Angeles abrasion test. (ii). Deval abrasion test. (iii). Dorry abrasion test
Los Angeles Abrasion Test: -
The principle of the Los Angeles abrasion test is to find the percentage wear due to the
relative rubbing action between the aggregates and steel balls used as the abrasive charge
pounding action of these balls also exists while conducting the test. Maximum Allowable Los
Angeles Abrasion Values of Aggregates in Different types of pavement layers as per Indian
Road Congress (IRC) are: -
1. For the sub-base course a value of 60%. For base courses such as WBM, Bituminous
Macadam (B.M.), Built–Up spray grout base course etc. value of 50%.
2. For surface course such as WBM, BM, Bituminous Penetration Macadam, Built-Up spray
grout binder course etc. a value of 40%.
3. If aggregates are used in the surface course as bituminous carpet, bituminous surface
dressing, single or two coats, cement concrete surface course, etc. a value of 35%.
4. If aggregates are used for bituminous concrete, Cement concrete pavement as a surface
coarse than aggregate abrasion value of 30% maximum.
Apparatus:
1. Los Angeles machine with inside diameter 70cm and inside length of 50cm.
2. Abrasive charges having diameter 4.8cm and weight 390 to 445 gm.
3. I.S Sieve with 1.7 mm opening.
4. Weighting Balance of 0.1gm accuracy.
5. Metallic Tray Experimental
Procedure:
1. Clean and dry aggregate sample confirming to one of the grading A to G is used for the test.
(Refer Table 1).

5
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

2. Aggregates weighing 5 kg for grading A, B, C or D and 10 kg for grading E, F or G may be

taken as test specimen and placed in the cylinder.
3. The abrasive charge is also chosen in accordance with table no.1 and placed in the cylinder
of the machine, and cover is fixed to make dust tight.
4. The machine is rotated at a speed of 30 to 33 revolutions per minute.
5. The machine is rotated for 500 revolutions for grading A, B, C and D, for grading E, F and
G, it shall be rotated for 1000 revolutions.
6. After the desired number of revolutions, the machine is stopped and the material is
discharged from the machine taking care to take out entire stone dust.
7. Using a sieve of size larger than 1.70 mm I.S sieve, the material is first separated into two
parts and the finer position is taken out and sieved further on a 1.7 mm I.S sieve.
8. Let the original weight of aggregate be W1 gm, the weight of aggregate retained on 1.70
mm I.S sieve after the test be W2 gm.
Los Angeles abrasion value % =
Weight in grams of each test sample in the size range, mm (Passing Abrasive Charge
and retained on square holes)
Grading

80-63 63-40 50-40 40-25 25-20 20- 12.5- 10-6.3 6.3- 4.75- No. of Weight
12.5 10 4.75 2.36
spheres of
charge
A 1250 1250 1250 1250 12 5000+/-15
B 2500 2500 11 4584+/-25
C 2500 2500 8 3330+/-20
D 5000 6 2500+/-15
E 2500 2500 5000 12 5000+/-25
F 5000 5000 12 5000+/-25
G 5000 5000 12 5000+/-25

Table 1. Aggregate Gradation and corresponding abrasive charge

Observations and Calculations:

Sl.No Details of sample Observations

1 Weight of specimen= W1 g

2 Weight of specimen retained on 1.7

mm IS Sieve after abrasion test = W2g

3 Los Angeles abrasion value

4 Mean value

6
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

Experiment No: 04
AGGREGATE SHAPE TEST

Objective: To determine the combined flakiness and elongation Index of the given coarse
aggregate sample IS Standards used: IS: 2386(Part-I)-1963 (Reaffirmed 2007)
Need and scope: Definition of Combined Flakiness and Elongation Index: It is the sum of the
flakiness index of a given aggregate sample and the elongation index of the non-flaky
particles of the sample
1 . Flakiness Index: The flakiness index of an aggregate sample is the percentage by weight
of particles in it with least dimension (thickness) less than three-fifth of their mean dimension.
The flakiness index of an aggregate sample is determined by sieving the sample of aggregates
through specified sieves to separate the aggregates into fractions of different sizes. Sizes of
the sieves used for this purpose are :- 63 mm, 50 mm, 40 mm, 31.5 mm, 25 mm, 20 mm, 16
mm, 12.5 mm, 10 mm and 6.3 mm. The test is not applicable to material passing a 6.30 mm
test sieve and also for aggregates retained on 63 mm sieve.
2 . Elongation Index : The Elongation Index of aggregate is the percentage by weight of
particles, whose greatest dimension (length) is greater than one and four-fifth times (1.8) their
mean dimension. The elongation index of an aggregate sample is determined by sieving the
sample of aggregates through specified sieves to separate the aggregates into fractions of
different sizes. Sizes of the sieves used for this purpose are :- 50 mm, 40 mm, 31.5 mm, 25
mm, 20 mm, 16 mm, 12.5 mm, 10 mm and 6.3 mm. The test is not applicable to material
passing a 6.30 mm test sieve and for aggregates retained on 50 mm sieve. It may be noted that
for determining the combined flakiness and elongation index, elongation test is conducted
after removing the flaky particles. For regular elongation test, the complete sample will be
evaluated.
Equipments:
1 . Weighing Balance: A Balance of suitable capacity accurate to 0.1% of the mass of the
weight of the test sample.
2 . Elongation and Flakiness index gauges
3 . Test Sieves: IS Sieves of the sizes and apertures appropriate to the specification of the
material to be tested with square holes with appropriate sizes of lids and receivers
Experimental procedure:
1) For obtaining the combined flakiness and elongation index, a flakiness test is conducted
first and the non-flaky particles of the sample will be used for conducting the elongation index
2) Sieve analysis is carried out on the sample of aggregate using sieves listed above.
3) A minimum of 200 pieces is taken for each fraction and weighed.
4) Weigh each of the individual size fractions retained on the test sieves, other than the 63.0
mm test sieve, and store them in separate trays with their sizes marked on the trays.

7
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

5) The sum of the weights of each fraction of aggregates gives the weight of the aggregate
sample. (Say, W1).
6) The particles belonging to a particular size group (ex: passing through 50 mm and retained
on 40 mm) are passed through the corresponding slot (for 50 mm – 40 mm fraction, the width
of the slot is 27 mm) of the thickness gauge (flakiness index gauge) shown in Figure 1.
7) The particles passing through the specified slot of the thickness gauge are “flaky” and will
be weighed to an accuracy of at least 0.1% of the weight of the test sample.
8) The sum of the weights of aggregates passing through different slots of the gauge is W2.
9) Flakiness index (%) = 100*(W2/W1)
10) For the purpose of determining combined flakiness and elongation index value, the
Elongation index test will be conducted on the non-flaky aggregates identified in the flakiness
test. Aggregates retained on a 50 mm sieve will be discarded for this test. Let the total weight
of aggregates considered for the elongation test be W3.
11) Effort will be made to pass the particles belonging to a particular size group (ex: passing
through 50 mm and retained on 40 mm), when held length-wise through appropriate gaps (for
50 mm – 40 mm fraction, the gap is 81 mm) as shown in Figure 2. The aggregates that do not
pass are elongated. These particles are weighed.
12) The sum of the weights of aggregates not passing through different gaps of the gauge is
W4. Elongation index (%) = 100*(W4/W3)
13) Combined flakiness and elongation index will be the sum of the two indices (determined
as described in the preceding steps)

Figure 1: Thickness gauge

8
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

Figure 2: Length gauge

Observations and Calculations:

Table 1. Flakiness Index
Size of Aggregates Thickness Weight of Weight of Flakiness
Passing Retained on gauge slot aggregate of aggregate Index of each
through sieve sieve of size used (0.6* this size fraction fraction of
of size (mm) (mm) average size) group (gm) passing aggregate
(mm) through the (%)
slot (gm)
63 50
50 40
40 31.5
31.5 25
25 20
20 16
16 12.5
12.5 10
10 6.3
FI= (W2/W1)*100 W1 W2 FI=……. %

9
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

Table 2. Elongation Index

Size of Aggregates Thickness Weight of Weight of Flakiness

Passing Retained on gauge slot aggregate of aggregate Index of each
through sieve sieve of size used (0.6* this size fraction fraction of
of size (mm) (mm) average size) group (gm) passing aggregate
(mm) through the (%)
slot (gm)
50 40
40 31.5
31.5 25
25 20
20 16
16 12.5
12.5 10
10 6.3
EI= (W4/W3)*100 W3 W4 EI=……. %

Calculations:
Flakiness index (%), x = 100*(W2/W1) =
Elongation index of non-flaky particles (%), y = 100*(W4/W3) =
Combined flakiness and elongation index (%) = x + y =

10
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

Experiment No: 05
SOUNDNESS TEST OF AGGREGATE

Objective: To determine the resistance to the disintegration of aggregate

Need and Scope: If aggregates are unsound, they go through excessive volume change under
extreme or severe weathering conditions. This volume change deteriorates the concrete. This
deterioration may appear as local scaling, extensive surface cracking or the concrete may
have disintegration over a considerable depth. This damages the appearance of the concrete
structure. It can also cause serious structural damage.
Hence, it is important to check the soundness of aggregate before using them for
construction.
Apparatus:
1. Sieves
2. Containers
3. Balances
4. Drying Oven
5. Sodium Sulphate Solution (SG-1.15-1.17)
6. Magnesium Sulphate Solution (SG-1.29-1.30)

Preparation of Sample:
➢ Fine Aggregate:-
➢ Wash the sample of fine aggregate thoroughly on a 300-micron IS sieve.
➢ Oven-dry the sample to a constant weight at a temperature of 105 to 110°C.
➢ Separate the different sizes from the sample by sieving.
➢ For that, separate the aggregate roughly by using the sieves mentioned in the table
below.
➢ Select samples of sufficient size which can yield 100 g after sieving to refusal.
➢ Fine aggregate sticking in the meshes of the sieves shall not be used in preparing the
samples.
➢ Weigh out each separated fraction into 100 g samples after final sieving.
➢ Place them in separate containers for testing.

Passing IS Sieve Retained IS Sieve

600 microns 300 microns
1.18 mm 600 microns
2.37 mm 1.18 mm
4.75 mm 2.37 mm
10 mm 4.75 mm

11
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

➢ Coarse Aggregate:-
➢ Wash the sample of coarse aggregate thoroughly.
➢ Oven-dry the sample to a constant weight at a temperature of 105 to 110°C.
➢ Separate the sample into different sizes specified in the table given below.
➢ Weigh out each separated fraction.
➢ Place them in separate containers for testing.
➢ Count the number of particles, for fractions coarser than the 20-mm IS Sieve.

Size (mm) (square hole sieve) Yield (g)

10 to 4.75 300 g
20 to 10 1000 g
12.5 to 10 (33%) 20 to 12.5 (67 %)
40 to 20 1500 g
25 to 20 (33%) 40 to 25 (67%)
63 to 40 3000 g
50 to 40 (50%) 63 to 50 (50%)
80 or more 3000g
Experimental Procedure:
1. Storage of Samples in Solution
➢ Take the prepared solution of sodium sulphate or magnesium sulphate and immerse
the sample in it for 16-18 hours.
➢ Make sure the solution covers the samples to a depth of at least 15mm.
➢ To prevent evaporation and accidental addition of extraneous substances, cover the
container tightly.
➢ Maintain the temperature of the sample at 27°C±1°C during the immersion period.

2. Drying Samples After Immersion

➢ Remove the aggregate sample from the solution after the immersion period is over.
➢ Darin it for 15 ± 5 minutes.
➢ Preheat the oven to the temperature of 105-110°C.
➢ Oven-dry the sample until it reaches a constant weight.

12
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

➢ To achieve constant weight, the sample shall be removed from the oven at intervals of
not less than 4 hours nor more than 18 hours and cooled to room temperature.
➢ Constant weight is considered to be achieved when two successive weights differ by
less than 0.1g for fine aggregate or 1.0g for coarse aggregate.
➢ After achieving the constant weight of the sample, immerse them in the solution
again.
➢ Follow the same method as described above.
➢
Calculations:
Aggregate crushing value (%) = (W1-W2/W1)×100
Observations and Calculations:
Sample No Total weight of the Weight of dry Aggregate (%) Mean
dry aggregate aggregate after Soundness Value
sample (W1 gm). immersion (W2 Value
gm)

13
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

Experiment No: 06
PENETRATION TEST OF BITUMEN

Objective: To determine the penetration value of the given bitumen sample IS Standards
used: IS 1203 – 1978
Need and Scope: Various types and grades of bituminous materials are available for use in
road making. One of the ways of grading bitumen is in terms of its penetration value.
Penetration grading system of bitumen has been replaced in India by viscosity grading.
However, penetration test remains to be an important test which is retained in many binder
specifications. The penetration test determines the consistency of bituminous binders for the
purpose of grading them and for the purpose of giving an indication of the expected
performance. Penetration is determined by measuring the depth (in units of one tenth of a
millimetre) to which a standard needle with the needle assembly weighing 100 gm will
penetrate vertically at 25 ˚C standard temperature in 5 seconds of standard duration. The
softer the bitumen, the larger will be the penetration. The penetration grades of bitumen are
generally designated as 80/100, 60/70, or 30/40 grade bitumen. 80/100 bitumen indicates that
the penetration value of binder ranges from 8 mm to 10 mm.
Apparatus:
1. Penetrometer
2. Sample cup
3. Water bath for maintaining a temperature of 25˚C.
4. Thermometer
5. Specified needle
6. Stop watch
Experimental Procedure:
1. Pour the bitumen sample into the container of 35 mm depth.
2. Cool in atmosphere at a temperature between 15-30 ˚C for 60 to 90 minutes.
3. Place the container in the water bath maintained at a temperature of 25 ˚C for 60 to 90
minutes.
4. Place the sample under the penetrometer and adjust the screw so that the tip of needle just
touches the surface of the bitumen sample.
5. Take the initial reading and press the knob for 5 seconds. Take the final reading.
6. Make at least three such measurements.

14
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

Observations and Calculation:

Observations Sample A Sample B

Initial Final Penetration Initial Final Penetration
Reading Reading Reading Reading
1
2
3
4
5
6
Average For Sample A For Sample B

The average penetration value of Sample A =

The average penetration value of Sample B =

15
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

Experiment No: 07
SOFTENING POINT TEST OF BITUMINOUS MATERIAL

Objective: To determine the softening point of the given bitumen sample. IS Standards used:
IS 1203 – 1978
Need and Scope: The Softening Point of bitumen or tar is the temperature at which the
substance attains particular degree of softening. As per IS: 334-2002, it is the temperature in
ºC at which a standard ball passes through a sample of bitumen in a mould and falls through a
height of 2.5 cm, when heated under water or glycerine at specified conditions of test. The
binder should have sufficient fluidity before its applications in road uses. The determination
of softening point helps to know the temperature up to which a bituminous binder should be
heated for various road use applications. Softening point is determined by ring and ball
apparatus.
Apparatus:
1. Ring & Ball apparatus
2. Water bath
3. Stirrer
4. Thermometer
5. Beaker
6. Heating device etc.
Experimental Procedure:
1. Preparation of test sample: Heat the material to a temperature between 75-100 ° C above its
softening point; stir until it is completely fluid and free from air bubbles and water. If
necessary, filter it through IS sieve 30. Place the rings on a metal plate which has been coated
with a mixture of equal parts of glycerine and dextrin. After cooling for 30 minutes in air,
level the material in the ring by removing the excess material with a warmed, sharp knife.
2. Assemble the apparatus with the rings, thermometer and ball guides in position.
3. Fill the bath with distilled water to a height of 50mm above the upper surface of the rings.
The starting temperature should be 5 °C.
4. Apply heat to the bath and stir the liquid so that the temperature rises at a uniform rate of 5
± 0.5 °C per minute.
5. As the temperature increases the bituminous material softens and the balls sink through the
rings carrying a portion of the material with it.
6. Note the temperature when any of the steel balls with bituminous coating touches the
bottom plate.

16
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

Observations and Calculations:

Bitumen Sample Identification of Temperature (0C)
Sample (Grade
of bitumen)
Ball 1 Ball 2 Average
A
B

The Softening Point Temperatures of the given samples of Bitumen are: -

(a) Sample A =
(b) Sample B =

17
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

Experiment No: 08 (A)

FLASH AND FIRE POINT TEST OF BITUMINOUS MATERIAL

Objective: To determine the flash and fire point of given bitumen samples by Pensky-
Martens closed tester. IS Standards used: IS: 1209-1978
Need and Scope: Bituminous materials leave out volatiles at high temperatures depending
upon their grade. These volatile catch fire causing a flash. This condition is very hazardous,
and it is therefore essential to qualify this temperature for each bitumen grade.
FLASH POINT: the flash point of a material is the lowest temperature at which the vapour
of the substance momentarily takes fire in the form of flash under specified condition of test.
FIRE POINT: The fire point is the lowest temperature at which the material gets ignited and
burns under specified condition of test.
Apparatus:
1. Pensky-Martens closed tester consisting of cup, lid, stirrer, shutter, flame exposure device.
2. Thermometer (0-350o C) with sensitivity of 0.1o C.
Experimental Procedure:
1. The material is filled in the cup up to a filling mark.
2. The lid is placed to close the cup in a closed system. All accessories including thermometer
of the specified range are suitably fixed.
3. The bitumen sample is then heated. The flame is lit and adjusted in such a way that the size
of a bleed is of 4mm diameter.
4. The heating is done at the rate of 5o C to 6o C per minute.
5. The stirring is done at the rate of approximately 60 revolutions per minute.
6. The test flame is applied at intervals depending upon the expected flash and fire points.
7. First application is made at least 17o C below the actual flash point and then at every 10 C
to 3o C.
8. The stirring is discontinued during the application of the test flame.
Observations and Calculation:
Sl. Description Test-01 Test-02 Test-03 Test-04 Mean value
No
1 Grade of bitumen
2 Rate of heating
time (min)
3 Temperature
4 Flash point
5 Fire Point

18
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

Experiment No: 08 (B)

VISCOSITY TEST OF BITUMINOUS MATERIAL

Objective: To determine the viscosity of given bitumen sample by Tar Viscometer IS

Standards used: IS 1206 – 1978 (Part II)
Need and Scope: Viscosity is defined as inverse of fluidity. Viscosity thus defines the fluid
property of bituminous material. The degree of fluidity at the application temperature greatly
influences the ability of bituminous material to spread, penetrate into the voids and also coat
the aggregates and hence affects the strength characteristics of the resulting paving mixes.
Apparatus:
Tar Viscometer with 4mm and 10mm orifices – The apparatus consists of main parts like cup,
valve, water bath, sleeves, stirrer, receiver, and thermometer etc.
Experimental Procedure:
(i) The tar cup is properly levelled and water in the bath is heated to the temperature specified
for the test and is maintained throughout the test. Stirring is also continued.
(ii) The sample material is heated at the temperature 200C above the specified test
temperature, and the material is allowed to cool. During this the material is continuously,
stirred.
(iii) When material reaches slightly above test temperature, the same is poured in tar cup, until
the levelling peg on the valve rod is just immersed. In the graduated receiver (cylinder), 25ml
of mineral or one percent by weight solution of soft soap is poured. The receiver is placed
under the orifice.
(iv) When the sample material reaches the specified testing temperature within +/- 0.10C and
is maintained for five minutes, the valve is opened.
(v) The stopwatch is started, when cylinder records 25ml. The time is recorded for flow up to
a mark of 75ml (i.e., 50ml of test sample to flow through the orifice).
Observations and Calculation:
Sl. No. Description Test - 1 Test - 2 Mean value
1 Specified Test Temp. 0C
2 Size of Orifice in mm
3 Viscosity in Seconds

The average viscosity value of the given sample of bitumen:

19
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

Experiment No: 09
DUCTILITY TEST OF BITUMEN

Objective: To determine the ductility value of the given bitumen sample. IS Standards used:
IS 1203 – 1978
Need and Scope: In flexible pavement construction where bitumen binders are used, it is of
significance that the binders form a ductile film around the aggregate. The binder material
which does not possess sufficient ductility would crack when flexed or elongated. Ductility is
expressed as the distance in centimeters to which a standard briquette of bitumen can be
stretched before the thread breaks. The test is conducted at 27 º C +/- 0.5 º C at a rate of pull
of 50 +/- 2.5 mm per minute.
Apparatus:
1. Ductility machine
2. Briquette mould
3. Knife Sample
Preparation:
1. Apply grease on the glass plate.
2. Arrange the end pieces and side pieces of the briquette mould on a glass plate. Apply grease
on the insides of the side pieces of the mould.
3. Heat the bitumen sample to a pouring consistency and carefully pour into the mould.
Experimental Procedure:
1. Allow the sample to cool in air for about 30 to 40 minutes.
2. Immerse the mould with the plate in a water bath maintained at 27º C for 30 minutes
3. Take out the mould and cut off excess bitumen, if any, with a sharp hot knife.
4. Replace the mould back in water for 85 to 90 minutes, at 27º C
5. With the help of hot knife, remove the side pieces of the mould and separate the sample
from the plate
6. Carefully place the sample in the ductility machine on the plate provided. Fix the ends of
the mould to the plate. 26
7. Note the initial reading on the scale provided on the machine. It should be 0 (zero)
8. Start the ductility machine. The sample stretches and a thread is formed in the middle. The
sample stretches at a uniform rate of 50 2.5mm per minute.
9. The thread formed at the middle breaks after some distance. The distance up to which the
sample stretches before the thread breaks is recorded as the ductility value.

20
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

Observations and Calculation:

Test Parameter Sample No. Average (cm)
1 2 3
Ductility (cm)

The average ductility value of the given sample of bitumen =

21
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

Experiment No: 10
MARSHALL STABILITY TEST OF BITUMINOUS MIX

Objective: To determine the Marshall stability and flow of bitumen mix. IS Standards used:
ASTM D6927
Need and Scope: The original Marshall method is applicable only to hot-mix asphalt paving
mixtures containing aggregates with maximum sizes of 25 mm or less. This method covers
the measurement of the resistance to plastic flow of cylindrical specimens of bituminous
paving mixture loaded on the lateral surface by means of the Marshall apparatus.
Apparatus:
1. Specimen mould assembly
2. Specimen extractor
3. Compaction hammer
4. Compaction pedestal
5. Breaking head
6. Loading machine
7. Flow meter
8. Oven or hot plates
9. Mixing apparatus
10. Thermostatically control water bath
11. Thermometers of range 0-3600C with 10C sensitivity
Experimental Procedure:
In the Marshall method, each compacted test specimen is subjected to the following tests and
analyzed in the order listed below.
i. Bulk density determination
ii. Stability and flow test
iii. Density and voids analysis
Preparation of test specimens:
The coarse aggregates, fine aggregates, and filler material should be proportioned and mixed
in such a way that the final mix after blending has a gradation within the specified range. The
aggregates and the filler are mixed together in the desired proportion as per the design
requirements and fulfill the specified gradation. The required quantity of the mix is taken so
as to produce a compacted bituminous mix specimen of thickness of 63.5 mm, approximately.

22
 LABORATORY WORK FOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING LAB

Preparation of mixtures:
Weigh into separate pans for each test specimen the amount of each size fraction required to
produce a batch that will result in a compacted specimen 63.5 +/- 1.27mm (2.5 +/- 0.05 in.) in
height. This will normally be about 1200 gm. It is generally to prepare a trial specimen prior
to preparing the aggregate batches. If the trial specimen height falls outside the limits, the
amount of aggregate used for the specimen may be adjusted using:

Sieve Size (mm) Range of % Weight of Weight of

Percentage passing Aggregates Aggregates (gm)
by weight
20 100
12.5 80-100
10 70-90
4.75 50-70
2.36 35-50
0.600 18-29
0.300 13-23
0.150 8-16
0.075 4-10
Binder content by
weight of mix

The Marshall stability was found to be:

The flow of the mix was found to be:

23