ISO 20290-1:2021

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.