ASTM C778 20/30 SAND

Product Description

ASTM C778 specifies standard sand for use in the testing of hydraulic cements. The "20/30 sand" is one specific type of sand covered by this standard, often referred to as "tensile test sand."

Here's a description of ASTM C778 20/30 sand:

Key Characteristics:

 * Composition: It is typically a natural silica sand, meaning it's primarily composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2), often with a silica content of 98% or higher.

 * Grain Shape: The constituent grains are usually uncrushed and have a rounded or sub-rounded form. This is important for consistent packing and flow properties in testing.

 * Water Content: It typically has a very low water content, usually less than 0.1%.

 * Standardization: It must meet strict requirements for grading and be free from undesirable air-entraining characteristics.

Sieve Analysis (Grading) Requirements for 20/30 Sand (ASTM C778):

The "20/30" designation refers to its particle size distribution, specifically that it primarily passes through a No. 20 sieve and is retained on a No. 30 sieve. The exact percentages passing various sieves are critical for its standardization:

 * 1.18 mm (No. 16) sieve: 100% passing

 * 850 µm (No. 20) sieve: 85% to 100% passing

 * 600 µm (No. 30) sieve: 0% to 5% passing

Purpose and Use:

ASTM C778 20/30 sand is considered a "standard sand" because its consistent and controlled properties make it ideal for:

 * Testing Hydraulic Cements: It's primarily used as a reference material in various standard tests for hydraulic cements, such as:

   * ASTM C185: Standard Test Method for Air Content of Hydraulic Cement Mortar.

   * ASTM C190: (Discontinued standard, but 20/30 sand was used for tensile strength of hydraulic cement mortars).

   * ASTM C109: Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of Hydraulic Cement Mortars (while "graded sand" is more common for this, 20/30 sand may also be referenced or used in specific contexts).

 * Ensuring Reproducibility: By using a standardized sand, laboratories can minimize variations in test results due to aggregate properties, thus ensuring the comparability and reproducibility of cement tests.

In essence, ASTM C778 20/30 sand is a precisely controlled, rounded silica sand designed to provide a consistent and reliable aggregate for critical tests of hydraulic cements.

Precision and Reliability in Cement Testing

ASTM C778 20/30 Sand is renowned among laboratories and manufacturers for its consistent grading and high silica purity, ensuring reproducibility in cement testing. Its rounded to sub-angular particle shape and low impurities maximize the reliability of mortar cube strength measurements, essential for standard compliance and effective material analysis.


Superior Material Handling and Packaging Options

Delivered in robust 50 kg polypropylene bags with the option for custom packaging, this standard sand offers ease of handling and bulk availability for diverse industrial and laboratory requirements. Its indefinite shelf life, when stored dry, guarantees long-term usability and stability for ongoing research and quality control operations.