This document summarizes the protocols for testing base aggregate materials used in construction projects. It discusses sampling and splitting procedures, tests for different types of aggregates including natural sand and gravel, crushed limestone, and recycled materials. Common failures in sieve analysis of coarse and fine aggregate fractions are also outlined, such as materials being too coarse or having too few or too many fines. The presentation aims to ensure representative sampling and proper testing of aggregate materials.

1. American Engineering Testing, Inc.
Base Aggregate Testing
December 6, 2016
Presented By:
Chris Braaten PG, CPG

2. Sampling and Splitting Protocol
MnDOT certified personnel
Proper sampling
-From source
-On-site before compaction
Proper splitting
-Ensure representative sample

3. Natural Sand and Gravel
-Shale test
Crushed Limestone
-LAR, insoluble residue
Recycled Materials
-% Bitumen, % Masonry Block, % Glass, % Brick,
% Concrete, etc.
Other crushed quarry rock (basalt, granite, quartzite, etc.)
Know The Material

4. Sieve Analysis – Coarse Fraction

5. Too coarse and fails percent passing on the 1″ sieve
-Not crushed properly
-Not screened properly
Common Coarse Fraction Failures

6. Sieve Analysis – Fine Fraction

7. Common Fine Fraction Failures
Not enough fines and fails percent passing the #200 sieve
-after spreading and before compaction, heavy rain
washes out fines
High fines and fails percent passing the #200 sieve
-Over crushed
-Overburden contamination
-Contamination in haul truck
-Partially crushed material becomes reduced further
during transport or spreading, adding to fines

8. THANK YOU!
Photo: Portland Cement Association