DCC10022 Teaching Module

1ST EDITION

TEACHING MODULE :

DCC10022
Concrete Laboratory

KHAIRUNNISA ISLAMI AMBOTOLA
NORIKA KARIM

TEACHING MODULE :

DCC10022
Concrete Laboratory

KHAIRUNNISA ISLAMI BINTI AMBOTOLA
NORIKA BINTI KARIM

first edition

All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any
means, electronic or mechanical including photocopy, recording, or any information

storage and retrieval system without permission in writing from,
Politeknik Kota Kinabalu.

Published by:



POLITEKNIK KOTA KINABALU
No. 4, Jalan Politeknik, KKIP Barat

Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park
88460, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.



Tel : 088-401800
Faks : 088-499960
Website : https://polikk.mypolycc.edu.my/




© Politeknik Kota Kinabalu
First Edition, 2022

DCC 10022

CONCRETE LABORATORY

KHAIRUNNISA ISLAMI AMBOTOLA
12 years experience of teaching in Civil Engineering Department

ACADEMIC BACKGROUND

UNIVERSITI TUN HUSSEIN ONN MALAYSIA
Master in Civil Engineering
Bachelor Degree in Civil Engineering
POLITEKNIK KOTA KINABALU
Diploma in Civil Engineering

NORIKA KARIM
20 years experience of teaching in Civil Engineering Department

ACADEMIC BACKGROUND

UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MALAYSIA
Master in Civil Engineering
UNIVERSITI TUN HUSSEIN ONN MALAYSIA
Diploma in Civil Engineering with Academic Distinction
Bachelor Degree in Civil Engineering

Preface



A fundamental concept of practical works and principles relating to brickworks and concrete works, including the safety
exposure in workshop, is covered in BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY.
Students in this course must actively engage in teamwork during the practical tasks.



The purpose of the laboratory activity, which includes of workshops and experiments, is to introduce students to
fundamental approaches for problem solving and experimentation.

Each student will participate in data gathering, analyze data, and interpret results.
The use of the experimental findings to a genuine civil engineering issue will be emphasized.



After completing the course, students should be able to conduct laboratory experiments and investigations in concrete,
develop measurement techniques, analyze data, and interpret results in written reports, and develop generic skills that

will improve their ability to participate successfully in a lab environment and work as a team.

REACH US!
Civil Engineering Department

Politeknik Kota Kinabalu
No. 4, Jalan Politeknik
KKIP Barat

Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park
88460 Kota Kinabalu Sabah

CONNECT WITH US!
TELEPHONE NO : 088-401800

FAXS : 088-499960



email : [email protected]
email : [email protected]

CONTENTS

General Rules for Workshop Safety 1
Course Outline 2
Rubric 4



7
Sieve Analysis Test 16
Sand Segregation Test 22
26
Concrete Mixture 34
Slump Test

41
Compressive Strength Test



References

general safety
for Workshop Safety

1. Clean up all spills immediately.
2. Ensure all machine guards are in place before use.
3. Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery around machinery.
4. Be sure everyone is in clear before starting equipment.
5. Check electrical equipment for defects before using.

6. Keep hand tools in good condition.
7. Never distract the attention of another person.
8. Observer and practice the safety procedures established for the job.

9. Keep workshop clean.
10. Observe No Smoking regulations.
11. Shut down your machine before cleaning repairing or leaving it.
12. Do not exceed a speed that is safe for existing conditions.

13. Always wear PPEs.
14. Practice good housekeeping.

15. Report all unsafe conditions.

CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
COURSE OUTLINE

1. NAME OF COURSE BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE MATERIAL
COURSE CODE
DCC 10022
SYNOPSIS
BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY covers a basic
2. concept of practical works and principles regarding the brickworks and
concrete works including the safety exposure in workshop. This course
emphasizes the related brick laying using mortar mixing 1:3 and student
needed to complete a selected mini project.

3. CREDIT VALUE As for concrete works the method of statement for concrete which
referred is BS1881. The cement to be used throughout the work shall be
Portland cement obtained from an approved manufacturers that comply
with MS 522. Fine and coarse aggregates shall comply with MS 29. All
testing specification were referred by MS EN 206. This course also need
students to participate actively in teamwork during the practical activities.
2

4. PREREQUISITE/ None
CO-REQUISITE (IF ANY)

COURSE LEARNING OUTCOMES (CLO):
Upon completion of this course, students should be able to:

CLO1 Perform practical activities using appropriate tools and techniques for
concrete works with safety awareness. (P3, PLO5)

CLO2 Complete a selected mini project on brickworks through group
participation. (P5, PLO5)

CLO3 Participate actively in a teamwork during practical activities.
(A3, PLO9)

PROGRAMME LEARNING OUTCOMES (PLO):

PLO 5 : Modern Tool Usage: Apply appropriate techniques, resources, and modern engineering and IT
tools to well-defined engineering problems, with an awareness of the limitations (DK6); ET -
ENGINEERING TOOL

PLO 9 : Individual and Team Work: Function effectively as an individual, and as a member in diverse
technical teams; (IT-INDIVIDUAL & TEAMWORK)

ASSESSMENT METHOD:

The course assessment consist of:
i. Continuous Assessment (CA) – 100%

6. ii. Final Examination (FE) – None

Assessment Quantity Percentage (%) Approach
Workshop Practical 2 50 % Face to Face - Labwork
2 50 % Face to Face - Labwork
Project

TEACHING SCHEDULE:

Topic Topic/Content Recommended Assessment Week
No. Contact Hours Method
W1
INTRODUCTION OF CIVIL ENGINEERING 24 None W2 – W14
(3 hrs Lecture W2 – W14
LABORATORY
per week)
1.0 This topic introduces the students to the
knowledge and preparation before

conducting any laboratory works.

BRICKWORKS

This topic covers about Stretcher Bond 24

2.0 brickwork, English Bond, Flemish Bond and (3 hrs Lecture Project

wall plastering work. per week)

7. CONCRETE WORKS AND LABORATORY 24 Workshop
3.0 This topic covers the testing of cement, sand (3 hrs Lecture Practical
and aggregate, fresh concrete and hardened
per week)
concrete in the laboratory (Compressive
Strength Test Cubes).

REFERENCES Main reference supporting the course
8. British Standards 1881 (2015). Testing Concrete. The British Standard
Institution.
Prepared by: Colin Fearn . et. al. (2014). The City & Guilds Textbook: Level 1 Diploma in
Plastering. City & Guilds.
Jon Collinson, (2012). Brickwork and Bricklaying: A DIY Guide. Crowood
Press.
https://www.astm.org/Standards/cement-and-concrete-standards.html
Malaysian Standard EN 206 (2016). Concrete – Specification, Performance,
Production and Conformity (Third Revision). Department Of Standard
Malaysia.

Additional references supporting the course
Peter Cartwright, (2002). Bricklaying. McGraw-Hill Education.
P. Kumar Mehta and Paulo J.M. Monteiro, (2014), Concrete: Microstructure,
Properties and Materials, 4th Edition. McGraw Hill.
Theodore Marotta. et. all. (2010). Basic Construction Materials (8th ed.),
UnitedKingdom. Pearson Prentice Hall.
R. Dodge Woodson, (2011). Concrete Portable Handbook. Butterworth-
Heinemann..

Verified by :

……………….………………………… …………………………………………………….

(Tandatangan dan Nama Pensyarah Kursus) ( Tandatangan dan Nama TP(A)/TP/KJ/KPro/KUPA/KK )

KHAIRUNNISA ISLAMI BINTI AMBOTOLA Date : MOHD AZMAN BIN MOHD NOOR
Pensyarah DH44 Ketua Program

Jabatan Kejuruteraan Awam Diploma Kejuruteraan Awam
Politeknik Kota Kinabalu Jabatan Kejuruteraan Awam

Date : Politeknik Kota Kinabalu

Rubrics for Practical Works (Concrete Laboratory)

DCC10022 BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY ASSESSMENT TOOL (%) : PRACTICAL WORKS (40%)

CLO2 - Complete a selected mini project on brickworks through PLO5 Modern tools usage : Apply appropriate technique, resource and modern engineering and IT tools DP1 : Depth of Knowledge Required
group participation to well-defined engineering problems, with an awareness of the limitations (DK 6) DP3 : Can Be Solved in Standardized Ways
DP5 : Extend of Applicable Codes
Description of This rubrics is designed to assess practical works for Concrete Laboratory Works DK6 : Practical Engineering Knowledge
Rubrics

Taxonomy Criteria POOR (1) FAIR (2) MODERATE (3) GOOD (4) EXCELLENT (5) MARKS
Domain/Level /5
Ability to recognize the necessary tools and use to complete the task Student knows and able to
identify neces s ary tools to /5
Student is not able to both Student knows and is able to Student knows and is able to identify Student knows and is able to identify complete the tas k /5 x 2
identify and us e tools identify neces s ary tools for
P1 Usage of Tools completion of the tas k without neces s ary tools for completion of the neces s ary tools for completion of the /5
major prompting /5
tas k with s ome as s is tance tas k with les s as s is tance /5

Ability to display the appropriate response after completing the task

P2 Housekeeping Very proactive and s how good Proactive and s how good initiatives Show acceptable neces s ary Show few neces s ary information / Lack of neces s ary information /
initiatives of neces s ary of neces s ary information / theory / information / theory / lab s heet / theory / lab s heet / materials etc before theory / lab s heet / materials etc
information / theory / lab materials etc before producing a video
lab s heet / materials etc before producing a video pres entation before producing a video
s heet / materials etc before producing a video pres entation pres entation pres entation
producing a video pres entation

Ability to display adequate skills and precision to complete the task

P3 La b o ra to ry Meas urements, s kills or Meas urements, s kills or techniques Meas urements, s kills or techniques Meas urements, s kills or techniques are Meas urements, s kills or
Te ch n i q u e techniques are incomplete, are s omewhat inaccurate and are mos tly accurate. accurate with reas onable precis ion techniques are both accurate and
imprecis e.
inaccurate and/or very precis e and may s how s ome
imprecis e i n n o va ti o n .

P3 Quality of Work Provide complete tas k/project Provide complete tas k/project with 4 Provide complete tas k/project with 2 Provides high quality work with 1 or les s Provides work of higher quality
or les s requirement re q u i re me n t with no requirement
with more than 4 requirement or les s requirement

Ability to construct diagrams/ tables/ graphs/ models

Not genuine res ults with too Not genuine res ults with too far Not genuine res ults but not too far A good genuine res ults with relevant An excellent genuine res ults with
from theoretical prediction. from theoretical prediction. relevant from theoretical
P3 Display of far from theoretical prediction. from theoretical prediction. p re d i cti o n
Res ults Outcomes are included but mis s ing Clear and reliable outcomes but
Outcomes are included but not Outcomes are included but mis s ing some labels missing some labels Clear and reliable outcomes with
complete labels
label the important labels

Ability to display adequate safety culture/behavior throughout the practical session

Proper s afety precautions are

P3 Proper s afety precautions are Proper s afety precautions are often Proper s afety precautions are Proper s afety precautions dis played dis played very cons is tantly
cons is tently mis s ed; mi s s e d generally dis played mos t of the time
Safety Culture

4 TOTAL /35 *40 %

Rubrics for Mini Project (Brickworks)

DCC10022 BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY ASSESSMENT TOOL (%) : MINI PROJECT (40%)

DP1 : Depth of Knowledge Required

CLO2 - Complete a selected mini project on brickworks PLO5 Modern tools usage : Apply appropriate technique, resource and modern engineering and IT tools to DP3 : Can Be Solved in Standardized Ways
through group participation
well-defined engineering problems, with an awareness of the limitations (DK 6) DP4 : Familiarity of Issues

DK6 : Practical Engineering Knowledge

Description of This rubrics is designed to assess a mini project for Brickworks
Rubrics
Criteria POOR (1) FAIR (2) MODERATE (3) GOOD (4) EXCELLENT (5) MARKS
Taxonomy
Domain/Level Ability to recognize the necessary tools and use to complete the task

P1 Usage of Tools Student is not able to both Student knows and is able to Student knows and is able to identify Student knows and is able to identify Student knows and able to /5
identify and use tools identify necessary tools for necessary tools for completion of the necessary tools for completion of the task identify necessary tools to
completion of the task without
task with some assistance with less assistance complete the task
major prompting

Ability to display competence during completion of task

P3 Finish & Unacceptable leveling Wall constructed is not leveled Wall constructed is near to leveled Wall constructed is almost leveled Wall constructed is leveled /5
Ap p e a ra n ce Unacceptable angle at right Angle at right and left is not Angle at right and left is not correct Angle at right and left is almost correct with Angle at right and left is correct
correct with large number of
and left errors with large number of errors very few errors

P5 Co mfo rmi ty Lay brick not according to Lay brick according to drawing Lay brick according to drawing but Lay brick according to drawing but slightly Lay bricks according to drawing /5
d ra wi n g. but not aligned. moderately aligned.
aligned. and perfectly aligned.

Ability to perform skillfully with precision and accuracy

P5 Accu ra cy/ Measurements, skills or Measurements, skills or Measurements, skills or techniques Measurements, skills or techniques are Measurements, skills or /5 (x2)
Pre ci s i o n techniques are incomplete, techniques are somewhat are mostly accurate. accurate with reasonable precision techniques are both accurate and
inaccurate and/or imprecise inaccurate and very imprecise.
precise and may show some
i n n o va ti o n .

P5 Quality of Work Provides work of poor quality Provides work of fair quality Provides work of moderate quality Provides work of good quality (horizontal Provides work of higher quality /5
(horizontal and vertical span) (horizontal and vertical span) (horizontal and vertical span) and vertical span) (horizontal and vertical span)

Ability to display safety culture/behavior throughout the project completion

P5 Sa fe ty Proper safety precautions are Proper safety precautions are Proper safety precautions are generally Proper safety precautions displayed most of Proper safety precautions are /5
consistently missed; displayed very consistantly
often missed d i s p l a ye d the time

5 TOTAL /35 *40 %

DCC10022 Rubrics for Individual and Teamwork ASSESSMENT TOOL (%) : MINI PROJECT/ PRACTICAL WORKS (10%)

BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

CLO3 - Participate actively in a teamwork during practical activities PLO9 Individual and Teamwork: Function effectively as an individual, and as member in
diverse technical teams

Description of This rubrics is designed to assess practical works and mini project for Brickworks and Concrete Laboratory
Rubrics
Taxonomy Criteria POOR (1) FAIR (2) MODERATE (3) GOOD (4) EXCELLENT (5) MARKS

Domain/Level INDIVIDUAL ASSESSMENT /5
/5
A3 Ability to show great initiatives and actively involved in a team engagement /5
A2
A3 I n i ti a ti ve Lack of initiative and have less Show few initiatives to provide the Show acceptable initiatives to provide proactive and show good initiatives Very proactive and show great /5
interst on team enggagement needed help for the team satisfaction the needed help for the team to provide the needed help for the initiative to provide the needed help /5
A3 and enggagement satisfaction and engagement team satisfaction and engagement for the team satisfaction and /25 *10 %
engagement

Helpfulness Not helpful Helpful when asked Very helpful sometimes Very helpful most of the time Very helpful all the time
Quality of Work
Lack of quality work produced Ability to complete work with the quality of work that reflects the expected achievements
Te a mwo rk
Team demonstrated litle Produced quality of work below Produce acceptable quality work Produced good quality according to Produce high quality work beyond the
te a mwo rk. minimun standard within the minimum standard
the quality standard required standard

TEAMWORK ASSESSMENT Team showed excellent teamwork.

Ability to share tasks to complete the team goal
Team demonstrated fairly teamwork. Team showed moderate teamwork. Team showed good teamwork.

Most work was done by 1 Most work was done by 1 or 2 member Team members seldomly shared the Most members shared the task All team members shared the task
member of team. of team. task equally and did not utilize
Work Distribution abilities of each team member equally and utilize abilities of each equally and utilizing abilities of each

team member. team member.

TOTAL

6

CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
POLITEKNIK KOTA KINABALU

CONCRETE
LABORATORY

[ SIEVE ANALYSIS TEST ]

Name Matric Number

GROUP MEMBERS

Name Matric Number

Prepared by :
KHAIRUNNISA ISLAMI BINTI AMBOTOLA & NORIKA BINTI KARIM

LECTURER
CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT

POLITEKNIK KOTA KINABALU

7

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

SIEVE ANALYSIS TEST

OBJECTIVE

To determine the particle size distribution in a sample of aggregate which is called
gradation.

PURPOSE

To achieve high level of strength for concrete, good workability of aggregates contained in
the concrete mixture has to be graded. So that the size of aggregate contained within the

concrete mix has the right proportion and achieves the fixed limit.

THEORY

The aggregate being used in a concrete mixture must be three times the volume of
concrete. Aggregate can have an influence on the characteristics of concrete such as
durability and workability. The use of aggregate can make concrete more stable and last

longer. Aggregates are classified into two categories :-
i. Fine aggregates/sand - Passing sieve 5 mm Ø
ii. Coarse aggregates - Retained sieve 5 mm Ø

According to MS 30 phase D (i) and (ii) sets the content and size of aggregates that must be
present in a concrete mix base on the grading limit, such as JKR/QC/AO2/89.

This method describes the procedure for determining the relationship between the
particle size distribution of fine and coarse aggregate. The aggregate most of which passes
IS 475mm sieve is classified as fine aggregate and retained on 4.75mm sieve is classified as
coarse aggregate can be obtained. A sample may be well graded, poorly graded or uniformly

graded.

8

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

APPARATUS

1. Pan Balance 2. Sieve Set 3. Mechanical Sieve Shaker

4. Container – Pan 5. Aggregate 6. 500 gm of sand

PROCEDURE

1. Obtain a sample from plant or as otherwise directed and mix sample well.
2. Nest the sieves with the finest sieve above the bottom pan and the coarsest sieve at the

top.
3. Weigh and note the starting weight of each sieve. Place the sample in the top sieve of a

stack of sieve.
4. Shake the stack for 10 minutes at a preset speed.
5. When shaking is complete, take each sieve one at a time and weigh this segment of

sample.
6. Record the weight and calculate the percent of sample remaining in each sieve.
7. Repeat the same procedure for the different material i.e. sand/aggregate.

9

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

RESULT (EXAMPLE OF CALCULATION)

1. Table of Calculation

Sieve Sieve Sieve + Weight Cumulative Cumulative Cumulative
Size Weight Aggregate Retained Weight % Weight Percentage
Retained Retained
Weight Passing

20 mm 00 0 100

14 mm 00 0 100
10 mm
6.3 mm 6 6 ((6/15)*100) (100-40)
2.35 mm = 40 = 60

Pan 5 (6+5) = 11 ((11/15)*100) (100-73.3)
= 73.3 = 26.7

4 (11 + 4) = ((15/15)*100) (100-100) =

15 = 100 0

- - 100 0

TOTAL 15 KG 313.3 0

2. Fineness Modulus

Fineness Modulus can be used to indicate the fineness of aggregate/sand.

Types Fineness Modulus (FM)
Fine Sand 2.2 – 2.6
Medium Sand 2.6 – 2.9
Coarse Sand 2.9 – 3.2

Fineness Modulus = Cumulative Percentage Weight Retained
100

10

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

RESULT

Sieve Size Sieve Sieve + Weight Cumulative Cumulative Cumulative
Weight Aggregate Retained Weight % Weight Percentage
Retained Retained Passing
Weight

20 mm

14 mm

10 mm

6.3 mm

2.35 mm

Pan

TOTAL

Fineness Modulus = Cumulative Percentage Weight Retained
100

=

11

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY
12

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

DISCUSSION

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

CONCLUSION

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

13

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

QUESTION

1. Why it is not suitable for all concrete mixture when the amount of fine aggregate and
coarse aggregate is fixed?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

2. What is the importance of aggregate sieve test?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

14

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

Name : _____________________________________________
Reg. No. : _____________________________________________
Lab : _____________________________________________
Date : _____________________________________________

REFLECTION MARKING RUBRIC

No. Criteria Excellent Good Moderate Fair Unsatisfactory
4. Reflection 10 8 6 4 2

 The ability to  The ability to  The ability to  The ability to  The ability to
demonstrate a demonstrate a demonstrate a perform a basic perform a
thorough good sufficient understanding limited
understanding of understanding understanding of the practical understanding of
the practical work. of the practical of the practical work. the practical
work. work. work

REFLECTION
Write a reflection according to your practical work. Your reflection must include the following items:

1. Today’s accomplishment
2. The significance /importance of the practical work
3. The obstacles encountered during practical work.
A reflection must be submitted at the end of practical session.

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

Checked by :-

15

CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
POLITEKNIK KOTA KINABALU

CONCRETE
LABORATORY

[ SAND SEGREGATION TEST ]

Name Matric Number

GROUP MEMBERS

Name Matric Number

Prepared by :
KHAIRUNNISA ISLAMI BINTI AMBOTOLA & NORIKA BINTI KARIM

LECTURER
CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT

POLITEKNIK KOTA KINABALU

16

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

SAND SEGREGATION TEST

OBJECTIVE

This test is to determine the bulking factor of wet sand.

PURPOSE

When mixes are specified by volume, the sand is assumed to be dry. The volume of a given
weight of sand, however, varies according to its moisture content. Equal weights of dry and
inundated sand have practically the same volume but the same weight of sand in a damp
condition can occupy a volume as much as 40% greater. This phenomenon is known as 'bulking'.

THEORY

BS 1881 stated that the moisture content in the sand will cause the bulking of the volume.
Moisture forms a film around each particle and this film of moisture exerts surface tension which

keeps the neighbouring particles away from it. Therefore, when no point contact is possible
between the particles, this causes bulking of sand.

APPARATUS

500 ml measuring cylinder Stirring Rod
Tray
Scoop

17

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

PROCEDURE

1. Fill the cylinder with water until 100 ml.
2. Slowly add some sand into the cylinder until water level increase to 150 ml.
3. Shake slightly the cylinder and put it aside in rest condition for 3 hours to allow

sedimentation.
4. Record the height of silt appears above the sand.

DIAGRAM

RESULT

No. of Sampel A B C D

Silt (ml)

Sand (ml)

Percentage of Silt
(%)
Average % of Silt (%)

Note : Sand is consider clean if content of turbidity is not exceed 8% (MS 30)

Percentage of Silt Content = Height of Silt (ml) x 100
Height of Sand (ml)

18

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

DISCUSSION

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

CONCLUSION

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

19

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

QUESTION

1. Why shall the test be carried out?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

2. When shall the test be carried out?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

20

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

Name : _____________________________________________
Reg. No. : _____________________________________________
Lab : _____________________________________________
Date : _____________________________________________

REFLECTION MARKING RUBRIC

No. Criteria Excellent Good Moderate Fair Unsatisfactory
4. Reflection 10 8 6 4 2

✓ The ability to ✓ The ability to ✓ The ability to ✓ The ability to ✓ The ability to
demonstrate a demonstrate a demonstrate a perform a basic perform a
thorough good sufficient understanding limited
understanding of understanding understanding of the practical understanding of
the practical work. of the practical of the practical work. the practical
work. work. work

REFLECTION
Write a reflection according to your practical work. Your reflection must include the following items:

1. Today’s accomplishment
2. The significance /importance of the practical work
3. The obstacles encountered during practical work.
A reflection must be submitted at the end of practical session.

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

Checked by :-

21

CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
POLITEKNIK KOTA KINABALU

CONCRETE
LABORATORY

[ CONCRETE MIXTURE ]

Name Matric Number

GROUP MEMBERS

Name Matric Number

Prepared by :
KHAIRUNNISA ISLAMI BINTI AMBOTOLA & NORIKA BINTI KARIM

LECTURER
CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT

POLITEKNIK KOTA KINABALU

22

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

CONCRETE MIXTURE

OBJECTIVE

This Section describes the methods for the preparation of materials and the batching, mixing and
sampling of concrete in the laboratory.

PURPOSE

Batch is the quantity of concrete mixed in one cycle of operations of a mixer or the quantity
mixed by hand in one cycle of operations.

The purpose of concrete mix design is to ensure the most optimum proportions of the
constituent materials to fulfil the requirement of the structure being built. Mix design should

ensure following objectives –
• To achieve the designed/ desired workability in the plastic stage
• To achieve the desired minimum strength in the hardened stage
• To achieve the desired durability in the given environment conditions

• To produce concrete as economically as possible.

THEORY

Cement concrete mix design means, determination of the proportion of the concrete ingredients
i.e. cement , water, fine aggregate, coarse aggregate which would produce concrete possessing
specified properties such as workability, strength and durability with maximum overall economy.

MATERIAL

23

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

PROCEDURE

1. For strength requirements, select the water to cement ratio by weight.
2. Before mixing concrete, be sure that the mixer has been "buttered" with a mixture of

cement, sand, and water.
3. Divide your water into two buckets, one with about 3/4 of the water. Put about half the

coarse aggregate and the 3/4-bucket of water.
4. Start the mixer.
5. Add about half the fine aggregate.
6. Carefully add all the cement with the mixer running. Try not to make a lot of dust!
7. Mix until all the cement is blended in.
8. Add the rest of the coarse and fine aggregate.
9. Mix for a while.
10. Add enough water from the final quarter of the water to produce a workable mix.
11. Mix for three minutes, followed by a three-minute rest, followed by a two-minute final

mixing.
12. Perform a slump test using the procedure given.

24

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

MIX DESIGN

Concrete mix design are often given by ratio ----- cement : fine aggregate : coarse aggregate

Material Cement Fine Aggregate Coarse Aggregate
Ratio 1 1.5 3
Weight
4.8 kg 7.2 kg 14.4 kg

The Water Cement Ratio
Too much water and not enough cement means concrete will be weaker and less durable.
The water to cement ratio (W/C) is the weight of the water divided by the weight of cement.
The lower the ratio, the stronger the concrete.

SAMPLING AND CONCRETE TESTING

Tests on fresh concrete and the preparation of specimens for tests on hardened concrete shall
start as soon as possible after completion of mixing. The required operations shall be carried
out during a period of not more than one hour from the addition of the water to the cement.

The fresh concrete shall be protected against gaining or losing water. Provided that care is
taken to ensure that no water or other material is lost, the concrete used in workability and
density tests may be remixed with the remainder of the batch before making any specimen
for testing hardened concrete. The period of remixing should be as short as possible but
sufficient to produce a homogeneous mass.

Slump Test 3 samples
Cube Test 3 cubes

25

CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
POLITEKNIK KOTA KINABALU

CONCRETE
LABORATORY

[ SLUMP TEST ]

Name Matric Number

GROUP MEMBERS

Name Matric Number

Prepared by :
KHAIRUNNISA ISLAMI BINTI AMBOTOLA & NORIKA BINTI KARIM

LECTURER
CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT

POLITEKNIK KOTA KINABALU

26

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

SLUMP TEST

OBJECTIVE

Concrete slump test is to determine the workability or consistency of concrete mix prepared at
the laboratory or the construction site during the progress of the work. Concrete slump test is
carried out from batch to batch to check the uniform quality of concrete during construction.

PURPOSE

Get the consistency of concrete mix by measuring the slump after deformed as a frustum cone in
the site or laboratory to assure that the concrete mix components ratios are accurate. It is the
simplest test to achieve concrete quality control in mixing stations and in the sites.

THEORY

Generally concrete slump value is used to find the workability, which indicates water-cement
ratio, but there are various factors including properties of materials, mixing methods, dosage,

admixtures etc. also affect the concrete slump value.
Under the BS 1881, there are 3 methods to test the workability of concrete mixture. This method
gives the indication of the quality of concrete with respect to consistency, cohesiveness and the
proneness to segregation. The workability of concrete alone cannot assure the quality because it

depends on the compacting method either by hand or vibrator.

APPARATUS

27

PROCEDURE

1. Before commencing the test, the plat base and inner surface of the mould is wiped with
a damp cloth.

2. The slump cone is placed centrally on the plate with the small opening facing upward.
3. The slump cone is filled with concrete in 3 layers, each layer tamped lightly 25 times with

steel rod in definite pattern, working from outside into the middle.
4. Top up the cone till it overflows. Level off the surface with the steel rod using a rolling

action.
5. Cleaned off the plate base from any of concrete excess.
6. The cone is slowly raised vertically by the handles and allowed to fall in 5 to 10 seconds.
7. Turn the cone upside down and place the rod across the up-turned cone.
8. The slump is measured by using the ruler (difference in level between the height of the

mould and that of the highest point of the subsided concrete).
9. All slumps must be measured and recorded (if the sample slumping still persist due to

shear/collapse the test should be repeated).If the slump still persist, measure the height
and types of the slump.
10. Repeat the above procedure by using different water cement ratio.

NOTE:
The above operation should be carried out at a place free from Vibrations or shock and within
a period of 2 minutes after sampling.

28

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

DIAGRAM

Types of Concrete Slump Test Result

Consistency Slump (mm)
Very Dry 0
Very Stiff
Stiff 0-15
Plastic Stiff 15-25
Plastic 25-50
Liquid 50-100
100-150
Very Liquid 150-200

29

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

RESULT

The slump (Vertical settlement) measured shall be recorded in terms of millimetres of
subsidence of the specimen during the test.

Test No. Concrete Water- Slump (mm) Consistency Shape

Proportion Cement Ratio

1

2

3

Average

30

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

DISCUSSION

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

CONCLUSION

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

31

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

QUESTION

1. What is the ideal value of slump?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

2. How much time one should take to raise the cone?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

3. Explain types of concrete slump test below.

True Slump

Zero Slump

Collapsed Slump

Shear Slump

32

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

Name : _____________________________________________
Reg. No. : _____________________________________________
Lab : _____________________________________________
Date : _____________________________________________

REFLECTION MARKING RUBRIC

No. Criteria Excellent Good Moderate Fair Unsatisfactory
4. Reflection 10 8 6 4 2

✓ The ability to ✓ The ability to ✓ The ability to ✓ The ability to ✓ The ability to
demonstrate a demonstrate a demonstrate a perform a basic perform a
thorough good sufficient understanding limited
understanding of understanding understanding of the practical understanding of
the practical work. of the practical of the practical work. the practical
work. work. work

REFLECTION
Write a reflection according to your practical work. Your reflection must include the following items:

1. Today’s accomplishment
2. The significance /importance of the practical work
3. The obstacles encountered during practical work.
A reflection must be submitted at the end of practical session.

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

Checked by :-

33

CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
POLITEKNIK KOTA KINABALU

CONCRETE
LABORATORY

[ COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH TEST ]

Name Matric Number

GROUP MEMBERS

Name Matric Number

Prepared by :
KHAIRUNNISA ISLAMI BINTI AMBOTOLA & NORIKA BINTI KARIM

LECTURER
CIVIL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT

POLITEKNIK KOTA KINABALU

34

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF
CONCRETE CUBES

OBJECTIVE

To determine the strength and workability of concrete mixture.

PURPOSE

Concrete is used mostly for structural purposes such as foundations, columns, beams and floors
and therefore must be capable in taking the loads that will be applied (unless you’re just after a
large paperweight!). One of the methods of checking its fit for purpose is to carry out a concrete
cube test which measures the compressible cube strength of the concrete and relates directly to

the required design strength specified by the designer. Also is it is usually a minimum
requirement from the client to provide evidence of cube test results to ensure compliance with

the designers requirements.

THEORY

To determine the concrete fulfils the required specification, 2 types of testing to be conducted
are Wet Concrete Testing such as slump, compacting factor and Vebe Consistency while hard

concrete testing such as cube test and beam flexural strength. Hard concrete test were
conducted at the age of 3, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days after curing. The concrete strength increases

according to the age and the strength increment will continue for sometimes.
Nevertheless, for most of the work, the concrete strength on the 28 days is set as standard even

though it might be determined at a much earlier or longer period. The increment rate of the
concrete strength will depend on the temperature and moisture during hardening process.

APPARATUS

35

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

PROCEDURE

1. The mould that will be used in the cube test must be cleaned internally using the wire
brush.

2. The interior surfaces of the assembled mould is required to be thinly coated with grease
oil to prevent adhesion of concrete.

3. Pour the ready mixed concrete with certain mix proportion into the mould in 3 layers and
each layer must be tamping 25 times using the compacting steel rod .Fill up the mould
until overflow and levelled the surface using the hand float.

4. The concrete will be left for 24 hours setting.
5. Record the date of the mixture for every cube and submerged all the 3 cube in the curing

tank at the temperature of 18 degree Celsius – 20 degree Celsius and test on the 7, 14
and 28 days.
6. Before placing in the water, the cube must be weighted while it is dry and record.
7. When the cube is fully matured it shall be weighted again and record.
8. Place the cube to be tested at the center plate of the compression machine. Ensure both
plates are in contact with the lower surface of the concrete plate. Release the load valve
to raise up the bottom plate until the cube touch the above plate. Record the maximum
load that will crush the tested cube.
9. Repeat the above step using the other cubes. Record the result accordingly.
Calculation and Expression of Result
Calculate the cross-section area of the cube face from the measured dimension. Calculate the
compressive strength of each by dividing the maximum load by the cross-sectional area.

DIAGRAM

36

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

RESULT

Cube Size : 150 mm x 150 mm x 150 mm

Cube No. Date of Date of Age During Cube Fail Load Compressive Failure
Cube Made Testing Testing Weight (kg) (kN) Diagram
Strength
(kN/mm2)

1

2

3

37

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

DISCUSSION

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

CONCLUSION

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

38

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

QUESTION

1. Why the inner surface of the mould shall be coated with the grease oil?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

2. How can the value of standard deviation describe the strength and quality of the
concrete?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

39

DCC 10022 – BRICKWORKS AND CONCRETE LABORATORY

Name : _____________________________________________
Reg. No. : _____________________________________________
Lab : _____________________________________________
Date : _____________________________________________

REFLECTION MARKING RUBRIC

No. Criteria Excellent Good Moderate Fair Unsatisfactory
4. Reflection 10 8 6 4 2

 The ability to  The ability to  The ability to  The ability to  The ability to
demonstrate a demonstrate a demonstrate a perform a basic perform a
thorough good sufficient understanding limited
understanding of understanding understanding of the practical understanding of
the practical work. of the practical of the practical work. the practical
work. work. work

REFLECTION
Write a reflection according to your practical work. Your reflection must include the following items:

1. Today’s accomplishment
2. The significance /importance of the practical work
3. The obstacles encountered during practical work.
A reflection must be submitted at the end of practical session.

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

Checked by :-

40

MAIN REFERENCE SUPPORTING THE COURSE



British Standards 1881 (2015). Testing Concrete. The British Standard Institution.
Colin Fearn . et. al. (2014). The City & Guilds Textbook: Level 1 Diploma in Plastering.

City & Guilds.
Jon Collinson, (2012). Brickwork and Bricklaying: A DIY Guide. Crowood Press.

https://www.astm.org/Standards/cement-and-concrete-standards.html
Malaysian Standard EN 206 (2016). Concrete – Specification, Performance,
Production and Conformity (Third Revision). Department Of Standard Malaysia.









ADDITIONAL REFERENCES SUPPORTING THE COURSE

Peter Cartwright, (2002). Bricklaying. McGraw-Hill Education.
P. Kumar Mehta and Paulo J.M. Monteiro, (2014), Concrete: Microstructure, Properties

and Materials, 4th Edition. McGraw Hill.
Theodore Marotta. et. all. (2010). Basic Construction Materials (8th ed.),

UnitedKingdom. Pearson Prentice Hall.
R. Dodge Woodson, (2011). Concrete Portable Handbook. Butterworth-Heinemann..

References

POLITEKNIK KOTA KINABALU
No. 4, Jalan Politeknik, KKIP Barat
Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park
88460, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.



Tel : 088-401800
Faks : 088-499960
Website : https://polikk.mypolycc.edu.my/