laboratory report in ce 171n

LABORATORY REPORT MATERIALS OF CONSTRUCTION AND TESTINGCE 171

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Presented toEngr. Joel G. OponFaculty, Civil Engineering DepartmentMSU Iligan Institute of TechnologyIligan City

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NICOLE ALEXIS K. VIOSLaboratory Report No. 1Standard Specifications for Concrete AggregatesASTM C 33

Name: Nicole Alexis K. Vios Date Performed: August 6, 2014Group No. 3

I. IntroductionConcrete is a mixture of cement, aggregates and water. The purpose of aggregates within this mixture is to provide a rigid skeletal structure and to reduce the space occupied by the cement paste thus reduces the cost. Both coarse and fine aggregates are required.This specification is for use in project specifications to define the quality of aggregate, the nominal maximum size of the aggregate, and other specific grading requirements. It is used by a contractor, concrete supplier, or other purchaser as part of the purchaser document describing the material to be furnished. It defines the requirements for grading and quality of fine and coarse aggregates for use in concrete.Those responsible for selecting the proportions for the concrete mixture shall have the responsibility of determining the proportions of fine and coarse aggregates and the addition of blending aggregate sizes if required or approved.Sand is the most commonly used building construction material. Its quality can have considerable effects on strength and durability of structures. A quality test for fine aggregates is therefore necessary. This laboratory activity tests only the fine aggregates.

II. ApparatusesThis laboratory activity was not done by students because the sand sample where given directly to City Engineers Office (CEO) for quality testing.

III. Summary of the Test MethodHalf a sack of fine aggregates sample where prepared and was sent to the City Engineers Office (CEO) for quality test, in accordance with the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standards.IV. Data Presentation and AnalysisFine aggregates shall consist of natural sand, manufactured sand, or a combination thereof. It shall be free from injurious amounts of inorganic impurities. Fine aggregates for use in concrete that will be subject to wetting, extended exposure to humid atmosphere, or contact with moist ground shall not contain any materials that are deleteriously reactive with the alkalis in the cement in amount sufficient to cause excessive expansion of mortar or concrete. Fine aggregate subjected to five cycles of the soundness test shall have a required weighted average loss.

A. GradingAs specified in ASTM C33 Section 6 which is grading, the following table are the specifications regarding the grading of fine aggregates:Table 1

Sieve (Specification E11)Percent Passing

9.5mm (3/8 in)100

4.75mm (No. 4)95-100

2.36mm (No. 8)80-100

1.18mm (No. 16)50-85

0.6mm (No. 30)25-60

0.3mm (No. 50)5-30

0.15mm (No. 100)0-10

On the other hand, the following table is the result obtained during the quality test of fine aggregates:Table 2

Sieve Size, mmRequirementsResultsRemarks

9.5(3/8 in)100100Passed

4.75 (No. 4)95-100100Passed

2.36 (No. 8)---95Passed

1.18 (No. 16)45-8069Passed

0.6 (No. 30)---25Passed

0.3 (No. 50)5-308Passed

0.15 (No. 100)0-102Passed

0.075 (No. 200)0-31Passed

As you can observe in the two (2) tables, there are slight differences in the requirements just like the 1.18-mm (No. 16) and 150-m (No. 100) sieve. But still, the sand sample passed the specified grading of fine aggregates.In Table 2, you can see in column two (2) rows four (4) and six (6), the results from the City Engineers office did not specify the requirements but in accordance to ASTM C33, please refer to Table 1.

B. Fineness ModulusASTM C 33 section 6.2 states that:6.2 The fine aggregate shall have not more than 45% passing any sieve and retained on the next consecutive sieve, and its fineness modulus shall not be less than 2.3 nor more than 3.1.The result obtained in the quality test is shown below. Since it is within the range of the requirement of this specification, therefore the sand sample passed in this test.TESTREQUIREMENTRESULTSREMARKS

Fineness Modulus3.01Passed

C. Moisture ContentWith reference to ASTM C 70 (Standard Test Method for Surface Moisture in Fine Aggregate), it says that this test can be used to adjust aggregate weights for moisture content and to determine surface moisture contribution to mixing water in Portland cement concrete. The result of the sand sample quality test is shown below.TESTRESULTS

Moisture Content3.61

D. Bulk Specific GravityIn accordance to ASTM C 29 (Standard Test Method for Bulk Density Unit Weight and Voids in Aggregate), determining the bulk density values are necessary for use for many methods of selecting proportions for concrete mixtures. The result of the sand sample quality test is illustrated below.TESTRESULTS

Bulk Specific Gravity2.52

E. Absorption, %Absorption as defined in ASTM C 128 (Standard Test Method for Density, Relative Density (Specific Gravity), and Absorption of Fine Aggregate) Section 3.1.1 is the increase in mass of aggregate due to water penetrating into the pores of the particles, during a prescribed period of time but no including water adhering to the outside surface of the particles, expressed as percentage of the dry mass. The result of the sand sample quality test is illustrated below.TESTRESULTS

Absorption, %2.905

F. Soundness (Na2SO4), % LossAs specified in section 8.1 of this specification,Fine aggregate subject to five cycles of the soundness test shall have a weighted average loss not greater than 10% when sodium sulphate is used or 15% when magnesium sulphate is used.In this quality test, sodium sulphate is used and the result of the test is shown below. Since it is not greater than 10% because it is only 2.905%, the sand sample passed the soundness test.TESTRESULTSREMARKS

Absorption, %2.905Passed

A summary of this quality test results can be found in Appendix A.V. Conclusions and Observationsa. The sand sample sent to the City Engineers Office (CEO) which was used by the students in the rest of their laboratory activities has an amount of silt and clay thus it is to apply methods that will decrease these amount like heating the sand sample to eliminate the presence of these elements.b. The use of good quality raw material is vital for the quality of the end product. Assessing the quality of sand is a great idea to ensure the best construction.c. Fine sand should consist of natural sand or crushed stone sand. It should be hard, durable, clean and free from organic matter. Fine sand should not contain any appreciable amount of clay balls and harmful impurities such as alkalis, salts, coal decayed vegetation and etc. This will greatly affect the concrete.d. Fineness Modulus (FM) is the sum of the total percentages retained on each specified sieve divided by 100. The higher the FM, the coarser the aggregate. Fine aggregates affect many concrete properties, including workability and finishability. Usually, a lower FM results in more paste, making concrete easier to finish.e. The moisture content of an aggregate is an important factor when developing the proper water-to-cement (w/c) ratio. All aggregates contain some moisture based on the porosity of the particles and the moisture condition of the storage area.f. Bulk Specific Gravity is the characteristic generally used for calculation of the volume occupied by the aggregate as well as in computation of voids in aggregate. Thus it is an important factor in designing concrete mixes.g. One of the most important factor in concretes performance is the water-to-cement (w/c) ratio. Water is essential to the cement hydration that gives concrete its mechanical strength, but it must be dosed correctly. Thus, determining the absorption of fine aggregates will enable us to correctly dose the water-to-cement (w/c) ratio.h. The quality of aggregates play a fundamental role in the quality of concrete.

Laboratory Report No. 2Standard Test Method for Normal Consistency of Hydraulic CementASTM C 187


I. IntroductionFor finding out initial and final setting time of cement, a parameter known as Normal Consistency has to be used. Consistency refers to the relative mobility of a freshly mixed cement paste or its ability to flow. Consistency of hydraulic cement depends on the water-to-cement (w/c) ratio.The normal consistency of a cement paste is defined as that consistency which will permit a Vicat plunger to penetrate to a depth of 10 1 mm from the top of the mold. This test method is intended to be used to determine the amount of water required to prepare hydraulic cement pastes for testing. Tests like these are performed to ensure that the cement is of desired quality.

II. Apparatusesa. Digital Weighing Scale a device used to measure the weight of the substance i.e. cement. b. Basin or Mixing Pan a container used where the mixing of cement and water happens. c. Trowel a hand tool used to mix the mixture and also to smoothen and flatten the top part of the mixture when it is already in the mold.d. Graduated Cylinder a laboratory instrument used to measure the volume of the liquid i.e. water.e. Stopwatch used to record the time of penetration of the Vicat plunger in the mixture making sure that 30 seconds has passed before reading.f. Vicat Apparatus a device used to determine the normal consistency of the mixture.

III. Summary of the Test MethodA 650g amount of cement with a measured quantity of water was prepared. Using the trowel and the mixing pan or basin, the cement and water were mixed together. As soon as the mixture is good, quickly, the cement paste was formed into the approximate shape of a ball by means of the hands. It was tossed from one hand to another several times approximately six (6) times. It was then placed into the conical ring completely filling the ring with the cement paste, shaking it slightly to expel the air. It was flattened and smoothened using the trowel and the excess cement paste was removed. The ring was then placed on the base plate of the vicat apparatus. In determining the consistency of the fresh mixture, the cement paste was placed at the center confined in the conical ring. The plunger end of the apparatus is used to determine the consistency of the mixture. The movable indicator was set to zero mark scale and the screw was tightened. Eventually, the screw was released. A time of thirty (30) seconds was waited before the final reading of the penetration of the rod.The paste shall be of normal consistency when the rod settles to a point 10 1 mm below the original surface in 30 seconds after being released. Make trial cement pastes with varying percentages of water until the normal consistency is obtained. Make each trial with fresh cement. In making a new trial, make sure that the plunger is cleaned every repetition.

IV. Data Presentation and Analysis

Trial NumberCement (g)Water (mL)Water-to-Cement Ratio (w/c)Penetration (mm)Remarks

16501950.3024Fail

2650162.50.257Fail

36501820.2810Pass

Standard Consistency = = = 28%Trial and error was used in achieving the right amount of water-to-cement ratio in order to reach the standard normal consistency. As you can see from the data above, the first trial with 195mL of water which is 30% of the cement, penetrated too much that it reached the bottom of the plate. Opposite happened with 162.5mL of water which is 25% of the cement because the Vicat plunger penetrated 4mm which is less than that of the required. Finally, during the third trial with 182mL of water which is a water-to-cement ratio of 0.28 penetrated just exactly 10mm which is within the range of the standard normal consistency.

V. Conclusion and Observationsa. The degree of wetness exhibited by a freshly mixed concrete is an important factor in determining the workability of a certain mixture.b. The manner of mixing the elements may have a factor affecting the amount of penetration of the Vicat plunger.c. The temperature of the water used can also affect the penetration of the Vicat plunger.d. The cement paste mixture of a 650g cement mixed with 28% of water that is 182mL passed the Standard Test Method specified by ASTM C 187.

VI. Photo Documentations Figure 1 Mixing of Cement and Water Figure 2 Filling and finishing the mold Figure 3 Reading of Penetration Figure 4 Final output

Laboratory Report No. 3Standard Test Method for Time of Setting of Hydraulic Cement by Vicat NeedleASTM C 191


I. IntroductionSetting time is one of the most important properties of a cement, as it will determine how much time is available to place and finish the concrete. Two ASTM standards exists for evaluation of setting time: ASTM Standard Test Method for Time of Setting of Hydraulic Cement by Vicat Needle (C 191) and ASTM Standard Test Method for Time of Setting of Hydraulic Cement Paste by Gillmore Needles (C 266). Both methods basically measure when the hydrating cement paste develops some finite value of resistance to penetration. Setting time is strongly influenced by the water-to-cement ratio.This method determines the time of setting of hydraulic cement by means of the vicat needle. It provides a means of determining compliance with a specification limit for Vicat time of setting.

II. Apparatusesa. Digital Weighing Scale a device used to measure the weight of the substance i.e. cement. b. Basin or Mixing Pan a container used to mix the cement and water. c. Trowel a hand tool used to mix the mixture and also to smoothen and flatten the top part of the mixture when it is already in the mold.d. Graduated Cylinder a laboratory instrument used to measure the volume of the liquid i.e. water.e. Stopwatch used to record the time of penetration of the Vicat Needle in the mold starting from the initial setting to final setting.f. Vicat Apparatus a device used to measure the depth of penetration of the Vicat needle into the mold until it reaches the desired initial set which is 25mm or less and final set which is 0mm.

III. Summary of the Test MethodA cement paste that is proportioned and mixed to the standard normal consistency as described in the Test Method C 187 is molded. This is a new batch of cement paste by mixing 650g of cement with the percentage of mixing water required for normal consistency as done in the previous laboratory experiment.The Vicat initial time of setting is calculated as the time elapsed between the initial contact of cement and water and the time when the penetration is at 25mm or less. Right after molding the mixture, wait for 30 minutes for the initial reading of the penetration, followed by 20 minutes. If eventually, the needle starts to penetrate a little, determine the penetration every after 15 minutes. Perform the penetration test by setting the movable indicator to zero mark scale and tightening the screw. Release the rod quickly by releasing the set screw and allow the needle to settle for about 30 seconds before taking the reading for recording. Record the results of all penetration tests. Make sure that every after repetition of the penetration test, the needle is clean and move to a new point where the needle will penetrate every repetition.The vicat final time of setting is calculated as the time elapsed between initial contact of cement and water and the time when the need does not visibly sink into the cement paste.

IV. Data Presentation and AnalysisAt exactly 3:51 in the afternoon, mixing of the 650g cement and 182mL of water passing the Test Method C 187-86 for normal consistency was made. At 3:53PM molding of the mixture was done. The following table shows the summary of the time of setting of the mixture both initial and final set as well as the depth of penetration of the needle:

StartEndTime Elapsed (min)Total Time Elapsed (min)PenetrationRequiredRemarks

3:493:5122--Mixing

3:523:5314--Molding

1st Test3:544:243035--

2nd Test4:254:452056--

3rd Test4:465:001572--

4th Test5:015:151588--

5th Test5:165:3015104--

6th Test5:315:451512039 mm

7th Test5:466:001513638 mm

8th Test6:016:151515235.5 mm

9th Test6:166:251016332 mm

10th Test6:266:30516929 mm

11th Test6:316:401018026 mm

--------X--25mmInterpolateInitial Set

12th Test6:416:551519619mm

13th Test6:567:55602574.5 mm

14th Test7:568:15202782 mm

15th Test8:168:35202991 mm

16th Test8:368:55203200.5 mm

17th Test8:569:16203410 mmFinal Set

During the first five (5) tests, the mixture was still so wet that it penetrated so fast and deep causing the needle to bend a little. After one (1) hour and forty five (45) minutes sixth (6th) test, improvements are already visible. As shown in the table, during the eleventh (11th) test two (2) hours and forty five (45) minutes, the penetration is 26mm, and on the twelfth (12th) test three (3) hours, the penetration is 19mm. In order to determine the time that the needle penetrated 25mm, interpolation is used. Calculations are presented below.

The diagram shown below is a graphical representation of the time of setting of the cement paste.

Another solution in determining the vicat time of setting is shown below.

Where:E = time in minutes of last penetration greater than 25mmH = time in minutes of first penetration less than 25mmC = penetration reading at time ED = penetration reading at time H

V. Conclusion and Observationsa. The temperature of the air in the vicinity of the mixing slab, the dry cement, molds, and base plates are factors to be considered.b. The manner of mixing the cement and water is also a critical factor in the results of the experiment.c. The depth of penetration of the needle in the mixture is inversely proportional to the time of setting. As the time increases, the depth of penetration decreases.d. In this laboratory activity, the time of setting of the mixture to penetrate a depth of 25mm as prescribed by ASTM 191 04 is approximately 3 hours and 3 minutes.

VI. Photo Documentations

Figure 1 Mixing Figure 2 Filling the mold with cement paste

Figure 3 Ready for testing Figure 4 Final outputLaboratory Report No. 4Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of Hydraulic Cement Mortars (Using 2-in. or [50-mm] Cube Specimens)ASTM C 109


I. IntroductionConcrete has relatively high compressive strength, but significantly lower tensile strength, and as such is usually reinforced with materials that are strong in tension. The compressive strength of concrete is the most common performance measure used by the engineer in designing buildings and other structures.Compressive strength results are primarily used to determine that the concrete mixture as delivered meets the requirements of the specified strength, in the job specification. Further, this test method is referenced by numerous other specifications and test methods.This test method covers determination of the compressive strength of hydraulic cement mortars, using 2-in. or [50-mm] cube specimens by the Universal Testing Machine (UTM).

II. Apparatusesa. Laboratory Oven are ovens for high-forced volume thermal convection applications. These ovens generally provide uniform temperature throughout. In this laboratory activity, the oven is used for drying the sand.b. Pan a container used where the sand samples are put for drying.c. Laboratory Tongs are large pincers for grasping and lifting vessels of heat-resistant material used in high temperature chemical reactions. In this laboratory activity, it is used to hold or pick up the pan from the oven.d. Digital Weighing Scale a device used to measure the weight of the substance i.e. cement and sand.e. Basin or Mixing Pan a container used to mix the cement, sand and water. f. Trowel a hand tool used to mix the mixture and also to smoothen and flatten the top part of the mixture when it is already in the cube specimens.g. Graduated Cylinder a laboratory instrument used to measure the volume of the liquid i.e. water.h. Timer used to track and record the time.i. Cube Molds a 2-in. or [50-mm] cube specimen made of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) tiles. In this activity, 12 cube specimens are needed.j. Universal Testing Machine (UTM) a testing machine used to measure the compressive strength of the hydraulic cement mortars.k. Curing Tank a vessel used to cure the hydraulic cement mortars. Curing is the process of keeping the concrete moist and warm enough so that the hydration of cement can continue.l. Vernier Caliper a device used to measure the dimensions of the cube specimens for determining the area.

III. Summary of the Test MethodSeveral samples of fine aggregates were put in three (3) pans and were allowed to dry in the laboratory oven. Right after the final weight of the sand was recorded, calculations were made in order to come up with the water-to-cement ratio and necessary adjustments were applied.On the other hand, twelve (12) cube specimens made of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) tiles were prepared with a dimension of 50mm. Making sure that no mixture will spill, the cube specimens were sealed with masking tape in all sides. A trial mix of 1,500g of cement, 4,125g of fine aggregates and 850mL of water was prepared. Upon completion of mixing, within a total elapsed time of not more than two (2) minutes and thirty (30) seconds, the specimens were molded. The cube specimens were filled one half) of the depth of the mold in all of the cube compartments and tamped the mortar in each cube compartment thirty two (32) times in about ten (10) seconds in four (4) rounds, each round to be at right angles to the other and consisting of eight adjoining strokes over the surface of the specimen as illustrated in Figure 1. The tamping pressure shall be just sufficient to ensure uniform filling of the molds. When tamping of the first layer in all of the cube compartments was completed, the compartments were filled with the remaining mortar and then tamped just like the first layer. On completion of the tamping, the tops of all cubes should extend slightly above the tops of the molds, bringing in the mortar that has been forced out onto the tops of the molds with a trowel and smooth off the cubes by drawing the flat side of the trowel one across the top of each cube at right angles to the length of the mold.Immediately after completion of molding, place the test specimens in a moist room covered with wet towel for twenty four (24) hours. After 24 hours, remove the mold the PVC tiles and immerse the specimens in a curing tank with water.Test the compressive strength of the specimens for seven (7), fourteen (14), twenty one (21) and twenty eight (28) days. Before testing the cube specimens, the cubes were surface-dried first.

IV. Data Presentation and Analysis

The data given above are calculations provided by the professor. These data are used in the succeeding calculations.Table 3.1SampleWt of Pan (g)Wt of Pan + Sand (g)After1 Hour (g)After30 mins (g)After15 mins (g)Final (g)

129.771.169.569.569.569.5

229.669.868.368.368.368.3

33069.868.668.568.568.5

Table 3.2SampleWt of Pan (g)Wt of Pan + Wet Sand (g)Wt of Pan + Over dried Sand (g)Wt of Water (g)Wt of Sand (g)Moisture Content

129.771.169.51.641.43.86

229.669.868.31.540.23.73

33069.868.51.339.83.27

Average3.62

Table 3.3ActivityStartEndRemarks

Oven2:223:221 hour

Cool down3:233:275 mins

Oven3:283:5730 mins


Oven4:034:1715 mins


Weight Corrections:

Corrected Ratio:

Table 3.1 and 3.2 shows the recorded data of the three (3) pans, wet sand samples and over dried sand samples. Necessary calculations were made to come up with the tabulated data and the formulas are presented above.Table 3.3 shows the results when the sand samples were placed in the three (3) pans. First, it was placed for an hour and was cooled for about five (5) minutes before weighed in the scale. Next, it was placed in the oven for thirty (30) minutes and was cooled for five (5) minutes then weighed again in the scale. Lastly, it was placed again in the oven for fifteen (15) minutes and was cooled for five (5) minutes before the final reading of the weight of the sand samples.The calculations shown, shows the amount of water to be used in the mixture. Due to the results of the previous group which is not desired, necessary adjustments were made and the amount of water was increased to 850mL.The density is the mass of the material related to the specific volume and for cement is normally expressed as kilogram per cubic meter. It is varying depending on the amount and density of the aggregate, the amount of air entrained, and the water and cement content.The density (unit weight) of cement plays a significant role both in its production and performance. It is a measurement of the concretes solidity. This is very important considering all the high strength projects concrete is for. The theoretical value of the unit weight of concrete is around. Understanding concrete density is an important part of knowing the possibilities and limitations of what concrete can be used for.The table shown below shows the unit weight of the cement mortar specimen tested. It has a difference of compared to the theoretical value of the unit weight of concrete.SampleMass (g)Volume (cubic mm)Unit Weight (g/cubic mm)Unit Weight (kg/cubic meter)

Day 7

1271.5136,2500.0019926611992.66

2264.5144,6900.0018280461828.05

3271.8133,9000.0020298732029.87

Average1950.19

Day 19

1265.8120,466.090.002206432206.43

2265.2123,341.810.0021501222150.12

3261.2120,780.460.0021626012162.60

Average2173.05

Day 21

1268123,7380.0021658672165.87

2266.7123,985.850.0021510522151.05

3269126,141.080.0021325332132.53

Average2149.82

Day 28

1267.8121,600.250.0022022982202.30

2269.6123,120.750.002189722189.72

3267.5124,108.530.0021553722155.37

Average2182.46

Overall Average2818.51

Before the actual test specimens where tested, a sample large block was first tested by the professor for the students to know how to operate the Universal Testing Machine (UTM), the results of this sample are shown below. Thereafter, the students were the one operating the machine for the test of the other concrete specimen.After waiting for the testing dates, the following are the results obtained from the Universal Testing Machine (UTM):

Large Block

SampleWeight (g)Length (mm)Width (mm)Height (mm)Area (Top; sq. mm)

A---157.5152---23,940

Test Type No.Strength (MPa)Fmax (kN)Force Ap (kN)Speed (kN/s)Deformation (mm)Displacement (mm)

1.78E-0528.00670.34------------

Day 7

SampleWeight (g)Length (mm)Width (mm)Height (mm)Area (Top)

1271.5505054.52500

2264.552.552532730

3271.8505251.52600

SampleTest Type No.Strength (MPa)Fmax (kN)Force Ap (kN)Speed (kN/s)Deformation (mm)Displacement (mm)

11.756E-0516.8542.1330.65-0.815.755.75

21.756E-0519.0451.9738.0511.225.955.95

31.756E-0518.2147.3538.84-2.915.785.78

Average:18.0333333

Day 19


1265.849.164950.012408.84

2265.250.0649.1450.142459.9484

3261.249.1449.0450.122409.8256


11.756E-0525.5261.4644.962.044.824.82

21.756E-0523.8458.6243.343.826.146.14

31.756E-0523.8157.3242.04-46.116.11

Average:24.39

Day 21


126849.250.3502474.76

2266.749.250.1550.252467.38

326949.1550.17551.152466.10125


11.756E-0523.9559.2841.787.616.066.06

21.756E-0527.968.8350.96-4.876.146.14

31.756E-0529.1871.9753.825.776.366.36

Average:27.01

Day 28


1267.848.355050.32417.5

2269.649.155050.12457.5

3267.55049.22550.4252461.25


11.756E-0529.1170.451.483.585.645.64

21.756E-0519.5648.0935.33-3.225.775.77

31.756E-0522.455.1540.01-0.314.644.64

Average:23.69

A 14-day old concrete sample was not tested due to suspension of classes. In order to get the estimated strength of concrete on the fourteenth (14th) day, the process of interpolation was used. It is shown below.

Thus, through the calculations shown above, the strength of the concrete for the 14th day is 21.74MPa.It is expected that the strength of the concrete will increase with time, and it is evident in the results. A graphical representation is shown below. Unfortunately, due to reasons that the students do not know, the strength of the concrete decreased during the 28th day. It is believed that some factors may have affected this outcome.The following table is the summary of all the results of this Test Method:DaySampleCompressive Strength, MPa

7116.85

219.04

318.21

Average18.03

19125.52

223.84

323.81

Average24.39

21123.95

227.9

329.18

Average27.01

28129.11

219.56

322.4

Average23.69

The failure of the concrete specimens basically are like the one shown below.

The top part of the cube is partially or most likely did not crack at all. Due to the end friction and all the forces that is directed towards the cube, it produces a cone-shaped failure.

V. Conclusion and Observationsa. The water-to-cement (w/c) ratio of the concrete mix greatly affects the outcome of the concrete. First, physically, the appearance of the concrete is based on the water-to-cement (w/c) ratio as well as the manner of mixing. Second, it is an important influence on the quality of concrete produced.b. The manner of mixing and tamping of the concrete mix, may have factors that affects the concrete.c. As stated in the ASTM 109, it was suggested that lime water will be used in curing, but due to the unavailability of this liquid, tap water was used by the students in curing the concrete specimens. Research showed that lime water will not make the concrete stronger but used to keep the concrete from leeching out which is a relatively minor point but as part of the standard procedure, it is advisable.d. The appropriate knowledge of how to use the Universal Testing Machine (UTM) is of great advantage and is very much necessary. It is not only for coming up with the results but also for the proper care and use of the machine.e. The compressive strength of the concrete is directly proportional to the number of days it was cured. Inopportunely, during the 28th day of testing the remaining three (3) cube specimens, the strength of the concrete reduced from 27.01MPa to 23.69MPa. The students cannot definitely identify the reason why the strength decreased. Only this scenario happened: one of the members of the group transferred the cubes to another tank with new water. The students are unsure if this situation greatly affected the results of the concrete.f. The process of mixing concrete can be modified to form a higher or lower density of concrete end product.


Figure 1 Heating the sand sample

Figure 2 Mixing Figure 3 Curing

Figure 4 Testing

Laboratory Report No. 5Standard Test Method for Slump of Hydraulic-Cement ConcreteASTM C 143

Name: Nicole Alexis K. Vios Date Performed: September 6, 2014Group No. 3

I. IntroductionSlump is a measurement of the workability or consistency of concrete. In other words, it measures how easy the concrete is to push, mold and smooth out. Accordingly, its slump rating indicates what construction application the concrete is good for. The slump test is a means of assessing the workability of fresh concrete. It is used, indirectly, as a means of checking that the correct amount of water has been added to the mix. The test allows the builders and construction crews to get a good sense of how the mixed product will perform in a variety of settings, and also gives them the opportunity to add more powder or more water in order to get the right balance. This activity aims to achieve medium workability.This test method is intended to provide the user with a procedure to determine slump of plastic hydraulic cement concretes. It covers determination of slump of hydraulic cement concrete, both in the laboratory and in the field.

II. Apparatusesa. Mold a mold in the form of a truncated cone used to fabricate a specimen of freshly mixed concrete for the slump test.b. Tamping Rod a round, straight, steel rod having one or both ends rounded to a hemispherical tip used to tamp the mixture in the slump mold.c. Sieve a laboratory instrument used to strain fine aggregates to separate the clay from the sand samples as well as the coarse aggregates.d. Steel Tape a long, thin piece of metal that is marked with units of length used to measure the slump of the freshly mixed concrete.e. Digital Weighing Scale a device used to measure the weight of the substance i.e. cement, sand and gravel. f. Mixing Pan a container used to mix the cement, sand, gravel and water.g. Trowel a hand tool used to mix the cement, sand, gravel and water in the mixing pan.h. Graduated Cylinder a laboratory instrument used to measure the volume of the liquid i.e. water.

III. Summary of the Test MethodA sample of freshly mixed concrete was prepared the amount of cement, sand, gravel and water was given by the professor, 2992g of cement, 4718g of coarse aggregates, 5794g of fine aggregates and a varied amount of water per group. For Group 1 45% water, Group 2 48% of water, Group 3 50% of water and for Group 4 47% of water. The said mixture per group was performed. Then the inside of the cone was dampened and placed on a smooth and level surface large enough to accommodate both the slumped concrete and the slumped cone. Stand or foot pieces throughout the test procedure to hold the cone firmly in place.The mold was filled in three layers, each approximately one third (1/3) the volume of the mold. Each layer was rodded twenty five (25) times using the tamping rod uniformly distributing the strokes over the cross section of each layer. The top part was smoothened and flattened using the tamping rod by means of screeding and rolling motion.The excess concrete was removed and the overflow from base of cone was cleaned as well. Immediately the cone was lifted vertically with slow and even motion within 5 2 seconds. The withdrawn cone was inverted and placed next to, but not touching the slumped concrete. Immediately, the slump was measured by determining the difference between the top of the mold and the displaced original center of the top surface of the specimen. The slump operation is to be completed within an elapsed time of two and one half (2 ) minutes.IV. Data Presentation and AnalysisThe diagram below shows the slump test results of each group. The goal of the test method is to achieve medium workability in which a thirty millimetres (30mm) to sixty millimetres (60mm) of slump is to be attained.

V. Conclusion and Observationsa. A slump of 55mm was attained with a water-to-cement ratio (w/c) of 48%, this implies medium workability of the concrete. In this laboratory activity, it has been proven again that the water-to-cement (w/c) is of great importance in achieving a quality concrete and it also showed that it immensely influences the behaviour, characteristics and properties of the concrete.b. The manner of mixing and tamping the concrete is a factor affecting the slump result of the concrete. If an insufficient and inappropriate compression on the concrete mixture is applied, the concrete mixture tends to be less compact. Hence, it tends to collapse easily. An error probably occurs when an inadequate and incorrect number of strokes is made or insufficient force is applied.c. A collapse slump generally means that the mixture is too wet just like what happened to the slump of group 3.d. The amount of collapse or slump indicates the workability of different type of fresh concrete mixes. The higher the amount of slump, the higher the workability of concrete mixtures.


Figure 1 Preparation of Materials Figure 2 Mixing

Figure 3 Mixed elements Figure 4 Ready for slump reading

Laboratory Report No. 6Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete SpecimensASTM C 39

Name: Nicole Alexis K. Vios Date Performed: September 10, 2014Group No. 3

I. IntroductionThe strength of concrete is one of the most important and useful properties and one of the most easily measured. The strength of concrete in compression, tension and shear, or a combination of these, has in most cases a direct influence on the load-carrying capacity of both plain and reinforced structures. In most structural applications, concrete is designed primarily to resist compressive stresses.This test method covers determination of compressive strength of cylindrical concrete specimens such as molded cylinders and drilled cores. The results of this test method are used as a basis for quality control of concrete proportioning, mixing and placing operations; determination of compliance with specifications; control for evaluating effectiveness of admixtures; and similar uses.The test results may be used as an indication of the verification of other required properties or characteristics of the concrete as delivered and designed.

II. Apparatusesa. Cylindrical Mold a mold in the form of a cylinder with hollow top and with a base plate used to hold the freshly mixed concrete before curing after twenty four (24) hours.b. Tamping Rod a round, straight, steel rod having one or both ends rounded to a hemispherical tip used to tamp the mixture in the mold.c. Tie wire [gage number: 18] a material used to tighten the mold to ensure that no concrete mixture will spill while pouring. d. Cooking Oil wiped in the inside portion of the cylindrical mold for a greasy texture so that the concrete cylinder can easily be get from the mold.e. Pliers a tool used to bend and cut the tie wires used in tightening the mold.f. Sieve a laboratory instrument used to strain fine aggregates to separate the clay from the sand samples as well as the coarse aggregates.g. Digital Weighing Scale a device used to measure the weight of the substance i.e. cement, sand and gravel.h. Mixing Pan a container used to mix the cement, sand, gravel and water.i. Trowel a hand tool used to mix the cement, sand, gravel and water in the mixing pan.j. Graduated Cylinder a laboratory instrument used to measure the volume of the liquid i.e. water.

III. Summary of the Test MethodAs given by the professor, the concrete mixture consists of the following: 4188.8g of cement, 6605.2g of coarse aggregates (gravel), 8111.6g of fine aggregates (sand) and 2010.624mL of water which gives a water-to-cement- ratio of 48%. This amount of water has medium workability as tested in the previous laboratory experiment Standard Test Method for Slump of Hydraulic-Cement Concrete (ASTM C 143).Tie wire, pliers and cooking oil were also prepared. These materials were used to secure the mold. With the tie wires, using the pliers, the mold was tightened to make sure that no amount of concrete mixture will spill. An approximate amount of cooking oil was rubbed in the inside portion of the mold so that it would be easier to get the concrete when removing it from the mold.Given the concrete mixture, the elements were mixed. Right after mixing, the cylindrical mold was filled half way and tamped twenty five (25) times to make sure it is compact. After filling half way, it was then filled full and mounted a little, tamped again for twenty five (25) times. The top portion was then flattened and smoothened using the tamping rod with a rolling and screeching motion. The excess concrete mix was removed, the base plate was cleaned as well.The cylindrical mold, with the concrete mixture inside it was placed in a secure and dry place. After twenty four (24) hours, the cylindrical concrete specimen was removed from its mold and placed in a tank with tap water for curing process leaving it there and getting it only when the desired day for testing has come.The cylindrical concrete specimens were tested for its compressive strength when it was seven (7), fourteen (14), twenty one (21) and twenty eight (28) days old.

IV. Data Presentation and AnalysisTable 1DayTest NumberDiameter, mmArea, mm2Force, kNCompressive Strength, MPa

70000175646156.5019,236.17241.9412.58

140000175651153.0518,396.43360.5719.60

210000175662150.4017,165.83231.4613.03

280000175699152.22518,199.60255.5914.04

As seen in the table presented in the previous page, it is expected that the graph will be rising since compressive strength is directly proportional with the number of days of curing. Unfortunately, what happened is the opposite where after the 21st day, the compressive strength went down from 19.60MPa to 13.03MPa and on the 28th day rising up again to 14.04MPa.What happened during the 21st day is that the concrete mold is not fully filled with concrete, another is that the finishing at the top of the concrete specimen is not flat and smooth.Strength test results from cast cylinders may be used for quality control, acceptance of concrete, or for estimating the concrete strength in a structure for the purpose of scheduling construction operations such as removal of forms of for evaluating the adequacy of curing and protection afforded to the structure.

V. Conclusion and Observationsa. Compressive strength of cylindrical concrete specimens obtained varies because it depends on the size and shape of the specimen, batching, mixing procedures, the methods of sampling, molding and fabrication and the age, temperature and moisture conditions during curing.b. Supposedly, the compressive strength of cylindrical concrete specimens is directly proportional to the number of days that it is cured. Unfortunately due to some factors that affected it the opposite happened. c. It can be deduced that the compressive strength obtained on the 28th day did not pass the minimum requirement which is 17MPa.d. It is very important for an engineer to know how to determine the compressive strength of concrete since it is the most common performance measure in designing buildings and other structures. Knowing how the Universal Testing Machine (UTM) works and the interpretation of the compressive strength of concrete will be a great advantage to the engineer.


Figure 1 Sieving of AggregatesFigure 2 Mixing of elements Figure 3 Filling the mold and tamping

Figure 4 Finishing and smoothening the mold

Laboratory Report No. 7Standard Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel ProductsASTM A 370

Name: Nicole Alexis K. Vios Date Performed: October 18, 2014Group No. 3

I. IntroductionConcrete is used widely in civil engineering structures; due to its low cost, flexibility, durability, high resistance to fire and high compressive strength. It is a non-linear, non-elastic and brittle material. Concrete is strong in compression but very weak in tension. Due to this weakness a reinforcement material is needed to complement this weakness of concrete in tension. Thus, the discovery of steel is of great help in overcoming this weakness and now we have what we call reinforced concrete.Tensile testing is one of the most fundamental tests for engineering, and provides valuable information about a material and its associated properties. These properties can be used for design and analysis of engineering structures, and for developing new materials that better suit a specified use. This experiment is made to investigate the behaviour of steel under a tensile test.

II. Apparatusesa. Universal Testing Machine (UTM) the device used to measure the tensile strength of the steel sample. b. Vernier Caliper is a precision instrument used to measure the diameter of the steel.c. Ruler a measuring device used to determine the length of the steeld. Saw a tool consisting of a hard blade with a toothed edge used to cut through relatively hard material i.e., steel.

III. Summary of the Test MethodA sample of a ten millimetres (10mm) diameter steel with a length of twenty inches (20in) was prepared. It was then placed in the Universal Testing Machine (UTM) making sure that it will not slip, and the tensile strength of the specimen was determined.

IV. Data Presentation and AnalysisDiameter of the steel sample:Without Groove 9mmWith Groove 10mmAverage Diameter, = = 9.5mm The table shown below is a summary of the test results for the tensile test of the steel specimen.Table 1

AreaFeHReH (FmRm FeLReL

70.88 mm226.38 kN372.18 MPa42.87 kN604.83 MPa00

The yield strength ( of the steel sample which is 372.18 MPa indicates that this amount of stress is the maximum stress that can be developed in a material without causing plastic deformation. It is the stress at which the material exhibits a specified permanent deformation and is a practical approximation of the elastic limit. While the ultimate strength of the steel sample which is 604.83 MPa indicates that the steel sample can bear up to this stress without failure this is the highest point in the curve.

Figure 1

Figure 2

The typical stress-strain diagram of a steel specimen is shown in Figure 1. While Figure 2 is a diagram of the Force-Time Curve of the steel specimen tested. As can be seen in second figure, the steel specimen reached its failure at approximately 58 seconds.Refer to Appendix C for the overall test results of this specimen.

V. Conclusions and Observationsa. Through this experiment, it was proved that indeed, steel is very high in tension. Thus, when used together with concrete will create a material that is both high in compression and in tension.b. A proper placing of the steel specimen in the Universal Testing Machine (UTM) must be observed because there is a great possibility of it slipping, therefore, it will not have a reading of tensile strength.c. The tensile test is a common test. The tensile strength is the highest strength encountered in a tensile test. This mostly corresponds with the stress at fracture. But for very ductile materials, the stress at fracture is lower than the tensile strength. For very brittle materials, the yield strength equals the tensile strength.d. In engineering, yield strength ( is very important especially in selecting a material for design, construction of structures and building applications, particularly when there are significant loads or stresses being applied.e. The determination of the ultimate strength, is a significant factor to determine at what stress the material will fail.f. The ultimate strength is often used for quality control purposes because it is easily reproducible compared to many other tests, but it is not often used in the design of components because it is not necessarily a representative of the highest amount of stress that the material can handle. VI. Photo Documentations

Figure 1 The steel sampleFigure 2 Measuring the diameter of steel

Figure 3 Testing the steel sampleFigure 4 Right after testing

APPENDICES

APPENDIX A

APPENDIX B

APPENDIX C

laboratory report in ce 171n

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