Page 26 - PH_Masonry_Final_Ver 1_July 2020

Bulking of Sand

The presence of free moisture content in fine aggregates particles results in ―Bulking―. Bulking
results in an increase in the volume of the given mass of sand caused by the films of water push-
ing the sand particles apart.

The bulking increases with the increase in moisture content up to a certain limit and beyond that
the further increase in moisture content result in decrease in volume and at a moisture content
representing saturation point, fine aggregates show no bulking. It has been seen that fine sand

bulks more than course sand.

The volume may increase up to 20 to 40% when moisture content is 5 to 10%

Relationship between moisture added and volume change of sand:

Course Aggregates

Course Aggregates are defined as inert, granular, and inorganic materials that normally consist

of stone or stone-like solids. Aggregates can be used alone (in road bases and various types of
fill) or can be used with cementing materials (such as Portland cement or asphalt cement) to form

composite materials or concrete. The most popular use of aggregates is to form Portland cement
concrete.

Course Aggregates predominately retained on the No. 4 (4.75 mm) sieve. For mass concrete, the

maximum size can be as large as 150 mm.

Effects of aggregates properties on concrete:
Participant Handbook : Masonry 26