Sieve Analysis and Particle Size Distribution Testing

What Is Sieve Analysis?

Sieve analysis (also called gradation analysis or particle size distribution test) separates an aggregate or soil sample into fractions by passing it through a series of sieves with progressively smaller openings. The mass retained on each sieve is expressed as a percentage of the total — producing a grading curve used to verify specification compliance.

Aggregate gradation affects concrete workability, pavement compaction, and permeability. Even small deviations from specified gradation limits can significantly impact mix performance.

Standards

• ASTM C136 / C117: Fine and coarse aggregate for concrete (US). C117 covers washing before sieving to remove fines.
• EN 933-1: European standard for aggregate sieving (square-hole sieves).
• ASTM D6913: Soils and granular materials.

Equipment

• Test Sieves: Woven wire cloth in standard frame sizes (200 mm, 300 mm, 450 mm diameter). ASTM uses US sieve designations; EN uses ISO square-hole sieves.
• Sieve Shaker: Mechanical shaker for consistent, reproducible sieving. Amplitude, frequency, and time are set per standard (typically 10–15 minutes, ASTM C136).
• Balance: Sensitive to 0.1% of total sample mass.
• Brushes and Pans: For cleaning sieves and collecting fines passing the finest sieve.

Procedure (ASTM C136)

1. Oven-dry sample to constant mass. Weigh total sample mass (M_total).
2. Nest sieves in descending order with pan at bottom. Place sample on top sieve.
3. Shake for 10 minutes on mechanical sieve shaker.
4. Weigh mass retained on each sieve (M_i). Calculate cumulative % passing.
5. Plot grading curve: cumulative % passing vs sieve size on semi-log paper.
6. Compare against specification limits (e.g., ASTM C33 gradation zones for concrete aggregate).

Common Sieve Sizes (ASTM Aggregate)

Typical sieve stack for concrete aggregate: 37.5, 25, 19, 12.5, 9.5, 4.75, 2.36, 1.18, 0.600, 0.300, 0.150 mm — plus the pan.