Exp 1 Flakiness and Elongation Index
Exp 1 Flakiness and Elongation Index
Exp 1 Flakiness and Elongation Index
This test is used to determine the particle shape of the aggregate and each particle shape
being preferred under specific conditions.
The degree of packing of the particles of one size depends upon their shape.
Due to high surface area to volume ratio, the flaky and elongated particles lower the
workability of concrete mixes.
Flaky and elongated particles are considered undesirable for base coarse construction as they
may cause weakness with possibilities of braking down under heavy loads.
BS-1241 specifies a Flakiness index not exceeding 30% irrespective of the aggregate size.
Maximum permitted Elongated index is 35, 40 or 45% for aggregate sizes 2 ½’’ – 2’’, 1 ½’’
– ¾’’ & ½’’ – 3/8’’.
Both Flakiness and Elongation tests are not applicable to sizes smaller then 6.3mm i.e. ¼’’
sieve.
RELATEDTHEORY:
SHAPES OF PARTICLES
Angular shape of the particles is desirable in granular base coarse (flexible pavement)
due to better interlocking and increased stability.
APPARATUS:
A flaky particle is the one whose least dimension (thickness) is than 0.6 times the mean size.
These are the materials of which the thickness is small as compared to the other two
dimensions.
Limit of flaky particles in the mixes is 30%. If the flaky particles are greater than 30% then
the aggregate is considered undesirable for the intended use.
FLAKINESS INDEX Flakiness and Elongation Index
It is the percentage by weight of flaky particles in a sample.
Procedure
(in.) (in.)
Σ=
8913.5 Σ = 23.07
ELONGATED PARTICLES
These are the particles having length considerably larger than the other two dimensions
and it is the particle whose greater dimension is 1.8 times its mean size.
Limit of elongated particles in the mixes is 45%. Thus, if the elongated particles are
greater than 45%, then the aggregate is considered undesirable for the intended use.
ELONGATION INDEX
(in.) (in.)
Σ=8913.5 Σ = 48.91
PRECAUTIONS:
1. While sieving, care must be taken that the particles that are chocked in the sieve must no be
forced down into the next sieve. Such particles should be pushed back into the same sieve.
2. While placing different fractions on the table, place them some distance apart so that no two
fractions may get mixed.
3. Be careful while selecting the opening of the flakiness and elongation gauges for any particular
fraction.Flakiness and Elongation Index Flakiness and Elongation Index