Ministry-Approved Soil and Rock Mechanics Laboratory
Aggregate Tests
Aggregate Tests
The Hidden Backbone of Structures: Aggregate Tests
Aggregates (sand, gravel, and crushed stone), which constitute approximately 60% to 80% of the total volume of concrete, asphalt, and road base structures, are among the most essential building materials in the construction industry. As Derin Ege Soil Laboratory, we meticulously test the compliance of these critical construction materials with national (TS) and international standards in our Ministry-approved laboratory. With our advanced laboratory infrastructure, we certify the physical, mechanical, and chemical quality of the aggregates used in your projects, ensuring the long-term durability of your structures.
Why Is Aggregate Quality Control Essential?
The durability of reinforced concrete structures and highways depends not only on the quality of the binding material (cement or bitumen), but also significantly on the properties of the aggregates used. Excessive fine materials, clay lumps, or organic impurities within aggregates can directly reduce concrete strength, increase water demand, and cause shrinkage cracks over time. Additionally, the geometric characteristics of aggregates (flakiness and elongation ratios) strongly affect workability and compaction quality. The use of non-standard, low frost-resistant, or abrasion-prone aggregates can dramatically shorten the service life of structures. Aggregate tests performed in our laboratory prevent low-quality materials from entering construction sites, helping to avoid engineering failures and major financial losses.
Main Aggregate Tests Conducted in Our Laboratory
We perform the following quality control tests on aggregate samples used in construction materials production and road embankment applications:
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Particle Size Distribution (Sieve Analysis): We determine the granulometry (particle size distribution) of aggregates using precision sieve sets to identify the optimum material proportions required for concrete and asphalt mixtures.
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Specific Gravity and Water Absorption Test: We measure the void structure and water absorption capacity of materials. This test is essential for accurately adjusting the water-cement ratio in concrete mix design calculations.
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Fine Material and Clay Content Determination: We identify the amount of clay, silt, and harmful washable fine materials in aggregates that may weaken the bond strength between cement and aggregate particles.
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Shape Index (Flakiness and Elongation Index): We analyze particle geometry and report whether flaky or elongated particles exceed standard limits, as these negatively affect concrete workability and compressive strength.
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Mechanical Abrasion and Fragmentation Resistance: We evaluate the durability of aggregates used in road and infrastructure projects under traffic loads and friction through mechanical wear tests, determining the material performance class.
