Overview
ISO 20290-1:2021 - Aggregates for concrete - Test methods for mechanical and physical properties - Part 1 describes standardized laboratory procedures for measuring key physical properties of aggregates used in concrete. The standard covers determination of loose and compacted bulk density, particle density, particle mass-per-volume and water absorption using two principal techniques: the hydrostatic balance (Archimedes) method and the Pycnometer method. It specifies sampling, apparatus, calibration and reporting requirements to ensure reproducible, comparable test results.
Key Topics and Requirements
- Scope and definitions: clear definitions for bulk density, particle density, saturated-surface-dry (SSD) density, oven-dry density, water absorption and constant mass.
- Bulk density tests:
- Determination of uncompacted and compacted bulk density using a calibrated constant-volume container.
- Apparatus examples and minimum container capacities tied to maximum aggregate size (e.g., 1 L for 4 mm, up to 30 L for 63 mm aggregates).
- Compaction procedures: rodding (tamping) and allowance for alternative compaction methods (vibration, jigging) which must be reported.
- Calibration of container volume using water at specified temperatures and balance accuracy requirements.
- Particle density & water absorption - Hydrostatic balance method:
- Use of oven-dried and saturated-surface-dry masses plus weighing in water to derive particle density and absorption (Archimedes principle).
- Applicable to coarse aggregates (nominal size > 4 mm).
- Equipment requirements: ventilated oven at (105 ± 5) °C, wire basket or perforated container, precision balance.
- Particle density & water absorption - Pycnometer method:
- Alternate laboratory method for particle mass-per-volume and absorption using a pycnometer; detailed apparatus and procedural steps are specified.
- Sampling & conditioning: drying to constant mass at (105 ± 5) °C and determination of moisture content for moist samples.
- Test report: mandatory details such as reference to ISO 20290-1:2021, sample identification, maximum aggregate size, moisture condition (SSD), container dimensions, compaction method, and measured bulk/particle densities and absorption.
Applications and Users
ISO 20290-1:2021 is intended for:
- Materials and testing laboratories performing quality control and verification of aggregates.
- Concrete producers and mix designers who need accurate aggregate densities for volume calculations and proportioning.
- Civil and structural engineers, specifiers and construction contractors requiring standardized data for compliance with project specifications.
- Aggregate producers and quarry operators for product classification and certification.
Keywords: ISO 20290-1:2021, aggregates for concrete, bulk density, particle density, water absorption, hydrostatic balance method, Pycnometer method, test methods.
Related Standards
- ISO 20290 series (Parts 2 and 3) - complements Part 1 for other test methods.
- ISO 565 - Test sieves referenced for sampling and grading.
Open preview (PDF)Aggregates for concrete — Test methods for mechanical and physical properties — Part 1: Determination of bulk density, particle density, particle mass-per-volume and water absorption
