Aggregate Moisture and Absorption: Correcting Concrete Mix Water
Surface moisture in sand changes the water-cement ratio. Learn the moisture states, saturated surface-dry condition and how to correct batch weights and mix water.
0–6 mm
Sand
Washed Natural Sand
Washed natural sand
Alluvial sand with rounded particles, used after washing in concrete and mortar.
0–6 mm
Properties and technical role
Natural sand is taken from alluvial deposits, where erosion has rounded its particles. This shape reduces internal friction and gives fresh concrete its workability with less water.
Washing removes clay and silt from sand. Controlling the fineness modulus and the percent finer than the 75 µm sieve keeps the mix design stable across successive shipments.
Applications
- Ready-mix and structural concrete
- Mortar and plaster
- Precast concrete products
Concrete and concrete structuresBuildings, mortar and plaster
Quality information
| Method | Test |
|---|---|
| ASTM C136 | Sieve analysis |
| ASTM C117 | Material finer than the 75 µm sieve |
| ASTM D2419 | Sand equivalent |
| ASTM C40 | Organic impurities |
Reference gradingASTM C33
Grading limits for concrete fine aggregate
Limits on percent passing each sieve, based on ASTM C33. These are limits from the reference standard, not test results from a shipment. The current edition of the standard and the project specification are the final authority.
9.5 mm100%
4.75 mm95–100%
2.36 mm80–100%
1.18 mm50–85%
600 µm25–60%
300 µm5–30%
150 µm0–10%
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Inquire about Washed natural sand
The grading on offer, stock and supply terms for this product are confirmed at the time of inquiry.