Quality & standards
Quality and standards
Aggregate quality is measured in figures. This section presents the key indicators, technical references and the tests behind each indicator.
Key indicatorsWhat is measured
Four indicators of aggregate quality
Grading
Particle size distribution affects water demand, workability and compaction of the mix.
Cleanliness
Clay, silt and organic matter weaken the bond between aggregate and cement paste or bitumen.
Durability
The rock must stay stable under abrasion, impact and weathering cycles.
Particle shape
Angularity and aspect ratio determine interlock and the workability of the mix.
Assessment and documentationEvaluation
From sample to documented result
Material assessment
Rock type, source uniformity and intended use are the starting point for assessing any material.
Laboratory testing
Sampling and testing by standard methods shows the behaviour of a material in figures.
Documentation
Each test result is recorded with its reference, so it can be compared with the project specification.
Technical referencesStandards
Reference standards
The references below are common yardsticks for assessing aggregates. For any project, the current edition of the standard and that project's specification apply.
| Reference | Title | Application areas |
|---|---|---|
| ISIRI 302 | Iranian National Standard 302 | Properties of aggregates for concrete |
| ABA | Iranian Concrete Code (ABA) | Material and design requirements for concrete structures |
| Publication 101 | General Technical Specifications for Roads | Subbase, base and road construction materials and works |
| Publication 234 | Iran Highway Asphalt Paving Code | Aggregates and asphalt pavement design |
| ASTM C33 | Standard Specification for Concrete Aggregates | Grading and quality of concrete aggregate |
| ASTM C144 | Standard Specification for Aggregate for Masonry Mortar | Sand for masonry mortar |
| ASTM D242 | Standard Specification for Mineral Filler for Asphalt Mixtures | Mineral filler for asphalt mixtures |
| ASTM D1241 | Materials for Soil-Aggregate Subbase, Base and Surface Courses | Soil-aggregate materials for pavement layers |
This page introduces common technical references and does not mean holding certificates or approvals for these standards. Any documents available for a shipment are stated at the time of inquiry.
TestsTest methods
Common aggregate tests
Each test answers a specific question about how the material will behave.
- ASTM C136
Sieve analysis
- Measures
- Particle size distribution and grading curve
- Why it matters
- Basis for calculating fineness modulus and checking against standard limits
- ASTM C117
Material finer than the 75 µm sieve
- Measures
- Percent fines by washing
- Why it matters
- Controls clay and silt that affect water demand and bond
- ASTM D2419
Sand equivalent
- Measures
- Ratio of sand to clay-like material
- Why it matters
- A quick site check of how clean fine aggregate is
- ASTM C131
Los Angeles abrasion
- Measures
- Resistance to abrasion and impact
- Why it matters
- Assesses aggregate durability in pavements and concrete
- ASTM C88
Sulfate soundness
- Measures
- Mass loss over sulfate cycles
- Why it matters
- Predicts resistance to weathering
- ASTM C127 / C128
Density and water absorption
- Measures
- Relative density and percent absorption
- Why it matters
- Input to mix design and correction of mix water
- ASTM C40
Organic impurities
- Measures
- Presence of organic matter in sand
- Why it matters
- Prevents disruption to cement setting
- ASTM D5821
Fractured faces
- Measures
- Share of particles with fractured faces
- Why it matters
- Measures particle interlock in road and asphalt layers
Send your project's technical specification
Include the grading and standard you need with your inquiry.