Sieve Analysis Test: Procedure, Formula & ASTM Standards
Learn the sieve analysis test procedure for fine and coarse aggregates, sieve analysis formulas, percentage passing calculations, and ASTM C136 standards.
SOIL MECHANICS
10/9/20269 min read
Sieve Analysis: Test Procedure, Formula, and ASTM Standards for Aggregates
Introduction
Have you ever wondered how engineers determine whether sand and gravel are suitable for concrete construction? The answer starts with understanding the size distribution of aggregate particles. In civil engineering, the size and grading of aggregates play an important role in concrete quality, workability, strength, and the performance of construction materials.
Sieve analysis is one of the most common laboratory tests used to determine the particle size distribution of fine and coarse aggregates. It helps engineers check whether sand, gravel, and crushed stone meet the grading requirements specified for a construction project.
In this article, we will explain the sieve analysis test, the procedure for sieve analysis of fine and coarse aggregates, important formulas, calculations, equipment, and the relevant ASTM standards.
Quick Answer: What Is Sieve Analysis?
Sieve analysis is a laboratory test used to determine the particle size distribution of soil or aggregate by passing a representative sample through a series of sieves with progressively smaller openings. The mass retained on each sieve is measured and used to calculate the percentage retained, cumulative percentage retained, and percentage passing.
Table of Contents
What Is Sieve Analysis?
Purpose of the Sieve Analysis Test
Equipment Required for Sieve Analysis
Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregates
Sieve Analysis Test Procedure
Sieve Analysis Formula
Sieve Analysis Calculation Example
Sieve Analysis ASTM Standards
Importance of Aggregate Gradation
Common Errors During Sieve Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
1. What Is Sieve Analysis?
Sieve analysis is a method of separating particles according to their sizes using a set of standardized sieves. Each sieve contains a mesh with openings of a particular size, allowing smaller particles to pass through while retaining larger particles.
The test is widely used in civil engineering laboratories to determine the grading of fine aggregates, coarse aggregates, and certain soil materials.
For example, sand used in concrete contains particles of different sizes. If the particle sizes are distributed appropriately, the sand can contribute to a well-packed aggregate mixture. Sieve analysis helps engineers evaluate this distribution and compare the results with the applicable specification.
What Is Aggregate Gradation?
Aggregate gradation describes the distribution of particle sizes within a sample. Depending on its grading, an aggregate may contain a range of particle sizes or be concentrated within a relatively narrow size range.
Proper grading is important because it influences the packing of aggregate particles, the amount of void space, concrete workability, and the quantity of cement paste required for a concrete mixture.
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2. Purpose of the Sieve Analysis Test
The main purpose of the sieve analysis test is to determine the particle size distribution of a material and evaluate whether it meets the grading requirements for its intended use.
Common purposes include:
Determining the grading of fine and coarse aggregates.
Checking aggregate compliance with construction specifications.
Evaluating sand used in concrete and mortar.
Assessing gravel and crushed stone for concrete and pavement work.
Supporting quality control at construction sites and aggregate production facilities.
Calculating the fineness modulus of fine aggregate where required.
Evaluating the particle size distribution of suitable soil samples.
Sieve analysis is especially important when selecting aggregates for concrete because particle size distribution can influence the behavior and quality of the final mixture.
3. Equipment Required for Sieve Analysis
The sieve analysis test requires several basic pieces of laboratory equipment.
Standard Sieves
Standard sieves have mesh openings of specified sizes. The selection of sieve sizes depends on the material being tested and the applicable standard.
Common sieve sizes for aggregate testing include 37.5 mm, 19 mm, 9.5 mm, 4.75 mm, 2.36 mm, 1.18 mm, 600 µm, 300 µm, 150 µm, and 75 µm, where appropriate for the test.
Weighing Balance
A weighing balance is used to measure the original dry sample mass and the mass of material retained on each sieve. Its required capacity and accuracy depend on the aggregate size and the applicable test standard.
Mechanical Sieve Shaker
A mechanical sieve shaker agitates the sieve stack and helps separate the particles efficiently. Manual sieving may also be permitted under the applicable procedure.
Drying Oven
A drying oven is used to dry the aggregate sample to the condition required by the test method. For ASTM C136/C136M, the standard drying procedure must be followed.
Sample Splitter and Collection Pan
A sample splitter or suitable sample-reduction method helps obtain a representative test sample. A collection pan is placed below the finest sieve to collect the material passing through the sieve stack.
4. Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregates
The sieve analysis of fine and coarse aggregates follows the same basic principle, but the sample size, sieve selection, and handling requirements differ.
Sieve Analysis of Fine Aggregate
Fine aggregate generally consists of sand-sized particles that pass through the 4.75 mm sieve, subject to the applicable aggregate classification.
The test determines how the sand particles are distributed across different sieve sizes.
Fine aggregate sieve analysis is useful for:
Evaluating sand grading for concrete and mortar.
Checking compliance with specified grading limits.
Calculating fineness modulus where required.
Comparing aggregate samples from different sources.
A well-graded sand contains a suitable distribution of particle sizes, although the acceptable grading depends on the relevant specification and intended application.
Sieve Analysis of Coarse Aggregate
Coarse aggregate includes materials such as gravel and crushed stone that are generally retained on the 4.75 mm sieve.
The sieve analysis determines the proportion of material within different size ranges.
It helps engineers evaluate:
Aggregate size distribution.
Compliance with specified aggregate grading.
Suitability for concrete production.
Consistency between aggregate deliveries.
Quality control during crushing and screening operations.
The appropriate sieve series and sample mass must be selected according to the maximum aggregate size and the applicable test standard.
Why Is Grading Important?
Poorly graded aggregate may produce excessive voids or an unsuitable particle-size distribution. Depending on the mixture design, this can affect workability, segregation, paste demand, and the properties of hardened concrete.
Sieve analysis gives engineers a practical way to check the grading before using aggregates in construction.
5. Sieve Analysis Test Procedure
The sieve analysis test procedure should follow the applicable standard and project specifications. For fine and coarse aggregates, ASTM C136/C136M covers particle size distribution by sieving. Material finer than the 75 µm sieve may require the additional washing procedure described in ASTM C117. <Cite refs={["turn905221search3","turn905221search1"]}/>
Step 1: Collect a Representative Sample
Obtain a representative aggregate sample from the material being tested. Mix and reduce the sample using an appropriate method, such as a sample splitter or quartering.
The sample mass should comply with the requirements of the applicable test method.
Step 2: Dry the Sample
Dry the aggregate sample according to the specified test procedure, then allow it to cool as required before weighing.
Drying helps ensure that moisture does not distort the mass measurements.
Step 3: Measure the Original Dry Mass
Weigh the prepared sample and record its original dry mass.
Let the original dry sample mass be (W).
Step 4: Arrange the Sieves
Select the required sieve sizes and stack them in descending order of opening size. Place the sieve with the largest opening at the top and the finest selected sieve above the collection pan.
Step 5: Place the Sample on the Top Sieve
Carefully place the dry aggregate sample on the uppermost sieve. Avoid overloading individual sieves because excessive material can prevent effective separation.
Step 6: Shake the Sieves
Agitate the sieve stack using a mechanical shaker or the method permitted by the applicable standard.
Continue for the required duration or until the specified sieving endpoint is achieved.
Step 7: Weigh the Retained Material
After sieving, measure the mass of aggregate retained on each sieve separately.
Record the mass for every sieve and the collection pan, where required.
Step 8: Calculate the Results
Use the measured masses to calculate the percentage retained, cumulative percentage retained, and percentage passing for each sieve.
Check the total recovered mass against the original dry sample mass. Significant discrepancies may indicate material loss, handling errors, or other problems that need investigation.
Step 9: Prepare the Gradation Curve
Plot sieve opening size against percentage passing when a gradation curve is required.
The curve provides a visual representation of the aggregate particle size distribution and helps engineers compare the sample with specified grading limits.
6. Sieve Analysis Formula
Several formulas are used to calculate and interpret sieve analysis results.
A. Percentage Retained
Percentage retained is the percentage of the original dry sample mass retained on an individual sieve.
[
%\text{ Retained}=\frac{W_r}{W}\times100
]
Where:
(W_r) = mass retained on an individual sieve.
(W) = original dry sample mass.
B. Cumulative Percentage Retained
Cumulative percentage retained is the sum of the percentages retained on a particular sieve and all coarser sieves above it in the stack.
[
%\text{ Cumulative Retained}
=\sum %\text{ Retained}
]
C. Percentage Passing
Percentage passing represents the proportion of the original dry sample that passes through a particular sieve.
[
%\text{ Passing}
=100-%\text{ Cumulative Retained}
]
These calculations allow engineers to determine the particle size distribution and check compliance with grading requirements.
D. Fineness Modulus
Fineness modulus is an empirical index commonly calculated for fine aggregate using the sum of cumulative percentages retained on a specified series of standard sieves divided by 100.
Use only the sieve series prescribed by the applicable specification. The fineness modulus is not a direct measurement of the average particle diameter, and it does not replace a full grading analysis.
7. Sieve Analysis Calculation Example
Consider an illustrative dry aggregate sample weighing 1,000 g.
Suppose 250 g of the sample is retained on one selected sieve.
The percentage retained is calculated as follows:
Now assume that the cumulative mass retained on that sieve and all coarser sieves is 400 g.
The cumulative percentage retained is:
The percentage passing is therefore:
This means that 60% of the original dry sample passes through the selected sieve opening.
Repeat the same calculations for each sieve to establish the complete grading distribution.
8. Sieve Analysis ASTM Standards
ASTM standards provide recognized procedures for testing aggregates and determining their particle size distribution.
ASTM C136/C136M
ASTM C136/C136M is the standard test method for sieve analysis of fine and coarse aggregates. It describes the determination of aggregate particle size distribution by sieving and is used to evaluate grading compliance and support aggregate quality control.
The standard includes procedures for handling fine and coarse aggregate fractions. The applicable edition should be confirmed through the project specification or the official ASTM publication.
Official standard: ASTM C136/C136M — Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregates.
ASTM C117
ASTM C117 covers the determination of material finer than the 75 µm (No. 200) sieve by washing.
Ordinary dry sieve analysis alone may not accurately determine the amount of very fine material that passes the 75 µm sieve. When that fraction is important, the washing procedure may be needed in addition to ASTM C136/C136M.
Official standard: ASTM C117 — Materials Finer Than the 75 µm Sieve by Washing.
ASTM C136 and Project Specifications
When carrying out sieve analysis according to ASTM, engineers should confirm the correct edition and follow the complete procedure, including sample mass, drying, sieving, weighing, and reporting requirements.
Do not rely only on a simplified online procedure when testing material for formal acceptance or quality control.
9. Importance of Aggregate Gradation in Construction
Aggregate grading influences the performance of concrete and other construction materials in several ways.
Concrete Workability
An appropriate distribution of particle sizes can improve packing and help achieve the required workability when combined with a suitable mixture design.
Voids and Cement Paste Requirement
When particles pack efficiently, the volume of voids between them may be reduced. This can affect the quantity of paste required to fill those voids and coat the aggregate particles.
Strength and Durability
Aggregate grading contributes to the overall behavior of concrete, but grading alone does not determine strength or durability. Water-cement ratio, cement content, aggregate quality, curing, and other mixture properties also matter.
Quality Control
Regular sieve analysis helps identify variations in aggregate supply. This enables engineers and concrete producers to make informed decisions about material acceptance and mixture adjustments.
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10. Common Errors During Sieve Analysis
Incorrect testing practices can affect the reliability of sieve analysis results.
Using an Unrepresentative Sample
If the sample does not represent the aggregate supply, the calculated grading may not reflect the material actually being used.
Incorrect Drying
Insufficient drying may cause moisture to affect sample mass and particle separation.
Overloading Sieves
Excessive material on a sieve can prevent particles from passing freely through the openings.
Losing Material During Testing
Spillage or loss of fine particles during handling can create errors in the mass balance.
Using Damaged Sieves
Bent frames, damaged mesh, or blocked openings may lead to inaccurate particle separation.
Incorrect Calculations
Mistakes in cumulative percentages or percentage passing can result in incorrect grading curves and misleading conclusions.
Ignoring the Applicable Standard
Different materials and test methods may require different sample masses, sieve series, and procedures. Always follow the relevant standard and project specifications.
11. Frequently Asked Questions
What is sieve analysis?
Sieve analysis is a test used to determine the particle size distribution of a sample by separating it through a series of sieves with different opening sizes.
What is the purpose of the sieve analysis test?
The purpose is to determine aggregate grading, check compliance with specifications, and support material quality control for construction applications.
What is sieve analysis of fine and coarse aggregates?
It is the process of determining the particle size distribution of sand, gravel, and crushed stone by measuring the mass retained on a series of selected sieves.
Which ASTM standard is used for sieve analysis?
ASTM C136/C136M covers sieve analysis of fine and coarse aggregates. ASTM C117 is used to determine material finer than the 75 µm sieve by washing when required.
How do you calculate percentage passing?
Subtract the cumulative percentage retained from 100%.
What is fineness modulus?
Fineness modulus is an empirical index calculated from the sum of cumulative percentages retained on a prescribed set of sieves divided by 100. It is often used to describe the relative coarseness or fineness of sand.
Why is sieve analysis important for concrete?
It helps determine whether aggregate grading meets the required specifications and supports consistent concrete production. However, other material properties and mixture-design factors must also be considered.
12. Conclusion
Sieve analysis is a fundamental test in civil engineering that determines the particle size distribution of fine and coarse aggregates. It helps engineers assess aggregate grading, verify compliance with specifications, and maintain quality control during construction.
By following the correct sieve analysis test procedure and using the appropriate formulas, engineers can calculate percentage retained, cumulative percentage retained, percentage passing, and fineness modulus where applicable.
Understanding sieve analysis, sieve analysis of fine and coarse aggregates, and ASTM sieve analysis standards is valuable for civil engineering students, laboratory technicians, quality-control engineers, and construction professionals.
Explore More Civil Engineering Resources
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Urban Builder Guide — Civil Engineering Articles and Calculation Tools
Urban Builder Guide YouTube Channel — Civil Engineering Tutorials
These resources can help you build practical knowledge of construction materials, laboratory testing, estimation, and other important civil engineering topics.
