Designation: C 295 – 08

Standard Guide for

Petrographic Examination of Aggregates for Concrete1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C 295; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the Department of Defense.

1. Scope* C 136 Test Method for Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse
1.1 This guide outlines procedures for the petrographic Aggregates
examination of samples representative of materials proposed C 294 Descriptive Nomenclature for Constituents of Con-
for use as aggregates in cementitious mixtures or as raw crete Aggregates
materials for use in production of such aggregates. This guide C 702 Practice for Reducing Samples of Aggregate to
is based on Ref (1).2 Testing Size
1.2 This guide outlines the extent to which petrographic D 75 Practice for Sampling Aggregates
techniques should be used, the selection of properties that E 11 Specification for Wire Cloth and Sieves for Testing
should be looked for, and the manner in which such techniques Purposes
may be employed in the examination of samples of aggregates E 883 Guide for Reflected−Light Photomicrography
for concrete. 3. Qualifications of Petrographers
1.3 The rock and mineral names given in Descriptive
Nomenclature C 294 should be used, insofar as they are 3.1 All petrographic examinations of aggregate for use in
appropriate, in reports prepared in accordance with this guide. concrete as described in this guide should be performed by a
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the petrographer with at least 5 years experience in petrographic
standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical examination of concrete or concrete-making materials. The
conversions to inch-pound units that are provided for informa- petrographer should have completed college-level course work
tion purposes only and are not considered standard. pertaining to basic geology, mineralogy, petrography, and
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the optical mineralogy or have obtained equivalent knowledge
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the through experience and on-the-job training. Completion of
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- course work in concrete materials is also advantageous. The
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica- petrographer should have experience evaluating the effects of
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. aggregates on the physical and chemical properties of hardened
concrete. Identification of individual minerals in aggregate
2. Referenced Documents particles, classification of rock types, and categorizing the
2.1 ASTM Standards:3 physical and chemical properties of rocks and minerals should
C 33 Specification for Concrete Aggregates also be included in the petrographer’s experience. The petrog-
C 117 Test Method for Materials Finer than 75-µm (No. rapher should have expertise to properly use the equipment and
200) Sieve in Mineral Aggregates by Washing apparatus described in Section 6 and provide detailed interpre-
tations of the petrographic examination. If the petrographer
does not meet these qualifications, the individual may perform
1
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C09 on Concrete and such examinations under the technical direction of a full-time
Concrete Aggregates and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C09.65 on supervising petrographer who meets these qualifications. A
Petrography. resume of the professional experience and education of the
Current edition approved July 1, 2008. Published December 2008. Originally
approved in 1954. Last previous edition approved in 2003 as C 295 – 03. petrographer shall be available.
2
The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to the list of references at the end of 3.1.1 Licensing, certification, or other accreditation by a
this standard.
3
governmental agency or other organization stating the indi-
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
vidual is a professional geologist should not, by itself, consti-
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on tute sufficient qualification for examination of aggregates for
the ASTM website. concrete.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard.

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 C 295 – 08
4. Summary of Method prior testing, should be made available. The petrographer’s
4.1 The specific procedures employed in the petrographic advice and judgment should be sought regarding the extent of
examination of any sample will depend to a large extent on the the examination.
purpose of the examination and the nature of the sample. In 5.3 This guide may form the basis for establishing arrange-
most cases the examination will require the use of optical ments between a purchaser of consulting petrographic service
microscopy. Complete petrographic examinations for particu- and the petrographer. In such a case, the purchaser and the
lar purposes and to investigate particular problems may require consultant should together determine the kind, extent, and
examination of aggregates or of selected constituents by means objectives of the examination and analyses to be made, and
of additional procedures, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) should record their agreement in writing. The agreement may
analysis, differential thermal analysis (DTA), infrared spectros- stipulate specific determinations to be made, observations to be
copy, or other scanning electron microscopy (SEM) energy- reported, funds to be obligated, or a combination of these or
dispersive x-ray analysis (EDX). In some instances, such other conditions.
procedures are more rapid and more definitive than are 5.4 Petrographic examination of aggregate considered for
microscopical methods. use in hydraulic-cement concrete is one aspect of the evalua-
4.2 Identification of the constituents of a sample is usually a tion of aggregate, but petrographic examination is also used for
necessary step towards recognition of the properties that may many other purposes. Petrographic examinations provide iden-
be expected to influence the behavior of the material in its tification of types and varieties of rocks present in potential
intended use, but identification is not an end in itself. The value aggregates. However, as noted above, identification of every
of any petrographic examination will depend to a large extent rock and mineral present in an aggregate source is not required.
on the representativeness of the samples examined, the com- 5.5 The petrographic examination should establish whether
pleteness and accuracy of the information provided to the the aggregate contains chemically unstable minerals such as
petrographer concerning the source and proposed use of the soluble sulfates, unstable sulfides that may form sulfuric acid
material, and the petrographer’s ability to correlate these data or create distress in concrete exposed to high temperatures
with the findings of the examination. during service, or volumetrically unstable materials such as
4.3 This guide does not attempt to describe the techniques smectites (formerly known as the montmorillonite-saponite
of petrographic work since it is assumed that the guide will be group of minerals or swelling clays). Specifications may limit
used by persons who are qualified by education and experience the quartz content of aggregates for use in concrete that may be
to employ such techniques for the recognition of the charac- subject to high temperature (purposefully or accidentally)
teristic properties of rocks and minerals and to describe and because of the conversion to beta-quartz at 573 °C (1063 °F),
classify the constituents of an aggregate sample. In some cases, with accompanying volume increase.
the petrographer will have had experience adequate to provide 5.6 Petrographic examination should identify the portion of
detailed interpretation of the results. In others, the interpreta- each coarse aggregate that is composed of weathered or
tion will be made in part by engineers or others qualified to otherwise altered particles and the extent of that weathering or
relate the observations to the questions to be answered. alteration, whether it is severe, moderate, or slight, and should
determine the proportion of each rock type in each condition.
5. Significance and Use If the concrete in which the aggregate may be used will be
5.1 Petrographic examinations are made for the following exposed to freezing and thawing in a critically saturated
purposes: condition, finely porous and highly weathered or otherwise
5.1.1 To determine the physical and chemical characteristics altered rocks should be identified because they will be espe-
of the material that may be observed by petrographic methods cially susceptible to damage by freezing and thawing and will
and that have a bearing on the performance of the material in cause the aggregate portion of the concrete to fail in freezing
its intended use. and thawing. This will ultimately destroy the concrete because
5.1.2 To describe and classify the constituents of the such aggregates cannot be protected by adequately air-
sample, entrained mortar. Finely porous aggregates near the concrete
5.1.3 To determine the relative amounts of the constituents surface are also likely to form popouts, which are blemishes on
of the sample that are essential for proper evaluation of the pavements and walls.
sample when the constituents differ significantly in properties 5.7 Petrographic examinations may also be used to deter-
that have a bearing on the performance of the material in its mine the proportions of cubic, spherical, ellipsoidal, pyramidal,
intended use, and tabular, flat, and elongated particles in an aggregate sample or
5.1.4 To compare samples of aggregate from new sources samples. Flat, elongated, and thin chip-like particles in aggre-
with samples of aggregate from one or more sources, for which gate increase the mixing water requirement and hence decrease
test data or performance records are available. concrete strength.
5.2 This guide may be used by a petrographer employed 5.8 Petrographic examination should identify and call atten-
directly by those for whom the examination is made. The tion to potentially alkali-silica reactive and alkali-carbonate
employer should tell the petrographer, in as much detail as reactive constituents, determine such constituents quantita-
necessary, the purposes and objectives of the examination, the tively, and recommend additional tests to confirm or refute the
kind of information needed, and the extent of examination presence in significant amounts of aggregate constituents
desired. Pertinent background information, including results of capable of alkali reaction in concrete. See Specification C 33.

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 C 295 – 08
Alkali-silica reactive constituents found in aggregates include: 6.1.1.2 Horizontal Grinding Wheel, * preferably 400 mm in
opal, chalcedony, cristobalite, tridymite, highly strained quartz, diameter.
microcrystalline quartz, volcanic glass, and synthetic siliceous 6.1.1.3 Polishing Wheel, preferably 200 to 300 mm in
glass. Aggregate materials containing these constituents in- diameter.
clude: glassy to cryptocrystalline intermediate to acidic volca- 6.1.1.4 Abrasives* , Silicon carbide grit No. 100 (122 µm),
nic rocks, some argillites, phyllites, graywacke, gneiss, schist, 220 (63 µm), 320 (31 µm), 600 (16 µm), and 800 (12 µm);
gneissic granite, vein quartz, quartzite, sandstone, and chert. alumina M-305 (5 µm).4
Criteria are available for identifying the minerals in the list 6.1.1.5 Geologist’s Pick or Hammer.
above by their optical properties or by XRD (2),(3). Criteria are 6.1.1.6 Microscope Slides*, clear, noncorrosive, 25 by 45
available for identifying rocks by their mineral composition mm in size.
and texture (4). Examination in both reflected and transmitted 6.1.1.7 Mounting Medium for Powder Mounts* —Canada
light may be necessary to provide data for these identifications. balsam, neutral, in xylene; suitable low-viscosity epoxy resins;
X-ray microanalysis using energy-dispersive x-ray spectrom- or Lakeside 70.
eters with scanning electron microscopy (SEM/EDX) or 6.1.1.8 Xylene*.
wavelength-dispersive x-ray spectrometers in electron micro- 6.1.1.9 Mounting Medium*, suitable for mounting rock
probes (EMPA/WDX) may provide useful information on the slices for thin sections.
chemical composition of minerals and rocks. Potentially del- 6.1.1.10 Laboratory Oven*.
eterious alkali-carbonate reactive rocks are usually calcareous 6.1.1.11 Plate-Glass Squares*, about 300 mm on an edge
dolomites or dolomitic limestones with clayey insoluble resi- for thin-section grinding.
dues. Some dolomites essentially free of clay and some very 6.1.1.12 Sample Splitter with pans.*
fine-grained limestones free of clay and with minor insoluble 6.1.1.13 Micro Cover Glasses, * noncorrosive, square, 12 to
residue, mostly quartz, are also capable of some alkali- 18 mm, 25 mm, etc.
carbonate reactions, however, such reactions are not necessar- 6.1.1.14 Plattner Mortar.
ily deleterious. 6.1.2 Apparatus and Supplies for Examination of Speci-
5.9 Petrographic examination may be directed specifically mens:
at the possible presence of contaminants in aggregates, such as 6.1.2.1 Petrographic Microscope*, with mechanical stage;
synthetic glass, cinders, clinker, or coal ash, magnesium oxide, oculars and objective lenses that will allow magnifications of
calcium oxide, or both, gypsum, soil, hydrocarbons, chemicals up to 600 x, and objective-centering devices; full- and quarter-
that may affect the setting behavior of concrete or the proper- wave compensators; quartz wedge; micrometer eyepiece; Ber-
ties of the aggregate, animal excrement, plants or rotten trand lens.
vegetation, and any other contaminant that may prove unde- 6.1.2.2 Microscope Lamps*
sirable in concrete. 6.1.2.3 Stereoscopic Microscope*, with objectives and ocu-
5.10 These objectives, for which this guide was prepared, lars to give final magnifications from about 63 to about 1503.
will have been attained if those involved with the evaluation of 6.1.2.4 Magnet*, preferably Alnico, or an electromagnet.
aggregate materials for use in concrete construction have 6.1.2.5 Needleholder and Points*.
reasonable assurance that the petrographic examination results 6.1.2.6 Dropping Bottle, 60-mL capacity.
wherever and whenever obtained may confidently be com- 6.1.2.7 Petri Culture Dishes.
pared. 6.1.2.8 Forceps, smooth, straightpointed.
6.1.2.9 Lens Paper.*
6. Apparatus and Supplies 6.1.2.10 Immersion Media*, n = 1.410 to n = 1.785 in
steps of no more than 0.005.
6.1 The apparatus and supplies listed as follows comprise a 6.1.2.11 Counter.
selection that will permit the use of the procedures described in 6.1.2.12 Photomicrographic Camera and accessories.
this guide. All specific items listed have been used, in connec- 6.2 The items under Apparatus and Supplies include those
tion with the performance of petrographic examinations, by the used to make thin sections. Semiautomatic thin section ma-
procedures described herein; it is not, however, intended to chines are available, and there are several thin-section makers
imply that other items cannot be substituted to serve similar who advertise in Geotimes, the American Mineralogist, and
functions. Whenever possible the selection of particular appa- other mineralogical or geological journals. Laboratories may
ratus and supplies should be left to the judgment of the find it reasonable to buy a thin-section machine or use a
petrographer who is to perform the work so that the items commercial thin-section maker. Remotely located laboratories
obtained will be those with the use of which the petrographer have more need to be able to make their own thin sections.
has the greatest experience and familiarity. The minimum 6.3 It is necessary that facilities be available to the petrog-
equipment regarded as essential to the making of petrographic rapher to check the index of refraction of the immersion media.
examinations of aggregate samples are those items, or equiva- If accurate identification of materials is to be attempted, as for
lent apparatus or supplies that will serve the same purpose, that example the differentiation of quartz and chalcedony, or the
are indicated by asterisks in the lists given as follows.
6.1.1 Apparatus and Supplies for Preparation of Specimens:
6.1.1.1 Rock-Cutting Saw, * preferably with 350-mm or 4
The values given in micrometres are the approximate average grain size of
larger diamond blade, and automatic feed. commercial silicon carbide grit in the designated size classification.

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 C 295 – 08
differentiation of basic from intermediate volcanic glass, the future economic production. Samples should consist of not less
indices of refraction of the media need to be known with than the quantities of material indicated in Table 1, selected so
accuracy. Media will not be stable for very long periods of time as to be representative of the deposits.
and are subject to considerable variation due to temperature
change. In laboratories not provided with close temperature NATURAL GRAVEL AND SAND
control, it is often necessary to recalibrate immersion media
several times during the course of a single day when accurate 8. Procedure
identifications are required. The equipment needed for check-
8.1 Selection of Samples for Examination—Samples of
ing immersion media consists of an Abbé refractometer. The
refractometer should be equipped with compensating prisms to gravel and natural sand for petrographic examination should be
read indices for sodium light from white light, or it should be dry sieved in accordance with Method C 136 to provide
used with a sodium arc lamp. samples of each sieve size. In the case of sands an additional
6.4 A laboratory that undertakes any considerable amount of portion should then be tested in accordance with Test Method
petrographic work should be provided with facilities to make C 117, with the wash water being saved and removed by drying
photomicrographic records of such features as cannot ad- in order to provide a sample of the material passing the 75-µm
equately be described in words. For illustrations of typical (No. 200) sieve (See Specification E 11). The results of the
apparatus, reference may be made to Ref (1) and manufacturers sieve analysis of each sample made in accordance with Method
of microscopes equipped with cameras and photomacrographic C 136 should be provided to the petrographer making the
equipment may be consulted. Much useful guidance regarding examination and used in calculating results of the petrographic
photomicrography, especially using reflected light, is found in examination. Each sieve fraction should be examined sepa-
Guide E 883. rately, starting with the largest size available. Rocks are more
easily recognized in larger pieces; the breakdown of a hetero-
7. Sampling geneous type present in the larger sizes may have provided
7.1 Samples for petrographic examination should be taken particles of several apparently different types in the smaller
by or under the direct supervision of a geologist familiar with sizes. Some important and easily confused types may be
the requirements for random sampling of aggregates for recognizable using the stereoscopic microscope if they are first
concrete and in general following the requirements of Practice recognized and separated in the larger sizes, but may require
D 75. Information on the exact location from which the sample examination using the petrographic microscope if they are first
was taken, the geology of the site, and other pertinent data encountered in the smaller sizes.
should be submitted with the sample. The amount of material 8.2 The number of particles of each sieve fraction to be
actually studied in the petrographic examination will be examined will be fixed by the required precision of determi-
determined by the nature of the examination to be made and the nation of the less abundant constituents. Assuming that the
nature of the material to be examined, as discussed below. field sampling and laboratory sampling procedures are accurate
7.1.1 Undeveloped quarries should be sampled by means and reliable, the number of particles examined, identified, and
of cores drilled through the entire depth expected to be counted in each sieve fraction will depend on the required
exploited. Drilling of such cores should be in a direction that is accuracy of the estimate of constituents present in small
essentially perpendicular to the dominant structural feature of quantities. The numbers given in this method are minimal.
the rock. Massive material may be sampled by “NX” (53-mm They are based on experience and on statistical considerations
(21⁄8-in.) diameter) cores. Thinly bedded or complex material (5, 6). It is believed that at least 150 particles of each sieve
should be represented by cores not less than 100 mm (4 in.) in fraction should be identified and counted in order to obtain
diameter. There should be an adequate number of cores to reliable results. Precise determinations of small quantities of an
cover the limits of the deposit proposed for the project. The important constituent will require counts of larger numbers of
entire footage of the recovered core should be included in the particles. If the sample of a sieve fraction contains many more
sample and accurate data given as to elevations, depths, and particles than need to be identified, the sample shall be reduced
core losses. in accordance with one of the procedures in Practice C 702, so
7.1.2 Operating quarries and operating sand and gravel as to contain a proper number of particles for examination.
deposits, in which stock piles of the material produced are
available, should be represented by not less than 45 kg (100 lb)
or 300 pieces, whichever is larger, of each size of material to TABLE 1 Minimum Sizes for Samples from Undeveloped Sand
be examined. Samples from stock piles should be composed of and Gravel Deposits
representative portions of larger samples collected with due Quantity
consideration given to segregation in the piles. Sieve Size
kg (lb) Pieces
7.1.3 Exposed faces of nonproducing quarries, where stock Larger than 150-mm (6-in.) ... ... A

piles of processed material are not available, should be 75 to 150-mm (3 to 6-in.) ... ... 300A
represented by not less than 2 kg (4 lb) from each distinctive 37.5 to 75-mm (11⁄2 to 3-in.) 180 (400) ...
19.0 to 37.5-mm (3⁄4 to 11⁄2-in.) 90 (200) ...
stratum or bed, with no piece having a mass less than 0.5 kg (1 4.75 to 19.0-mm (No. 4 to 3⁄4-in.) 45 (100) ...
lb), or by a drilled core as described above. Finer than 4.75-mm (No. 4)B 23 (50) ...
7.1.4 Undeveloped sand and gravel deposits should be A
Not less than one piece from each apparent type of rock.
sampled by means of test pits dug to the anticipated depth of B
Fine aggregate.

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 C 295 – 08
9. Procedure for Examination of Natural Gravel 9.4.1.5 Color,
9.1 Coatings—The particles should be examined to estab- 9.4.1.6 Mineral composition,
lish whether exterior coatings are present. If coatings are 9.4.1.7 Significant heterogeneities,
present, it should be determined whether the coatings consist of 9.4.1.8 General physical condition of the rock type in the
materials likely to be deleterious in concrete (opal, gypsum, sample,
easily soluble salts, organic matter). It should also be deter- 9.4.1.9 Coatings or incrustations, and
mined qualitatively how firmly the coatings are bonded to the 9.4.1.10 Presence of constituents known to cause deleteri-
particles. ous chemical reaction in concrete.
9.2 Rock Types—The sieve fraction should be sorted into 9.4.2 Particle counts should be recorded so that tables can
rock types by visual examination. If all or most of the groups be made for inclusion in the report. When the examination has
present are types easily identifiable in hand specimen by been completed, the notes should contain enough information
examination of a natural or broken surface, and by scratch and to permit the preparation of tables and descriptions. Tables
acid tests, no further identification may be needed. Fine- should be prepared showing the composition and condition of
grained rocks that cannot be identified macroscopically or that the samples by sieve fractions, and the weighted average
may consist of or contain constituents known to be deleterious composition, based on the grading of the sample as received
in concrete should be checked by examination with the and on the distribution of constituents by sieve fractions.
stereoscopic microscope. If they cannot be identified by that Descriptions of constituent groups should be prepared contain-
means, they should be examined by means of the petrographic ing the relevant features among those enumerated in the
microscope. The amount of work done in identifying fine- preceding list.
grained rocks should be adapted to the information needed 10. Procedure for Examination of Natural Sand
about the particular sample. Careful examination of one size of
10.1 The procedure for the examination of natural sand is
a sample, or study of information from previous examination
similar to that for the examination of gravel, with the modifi-
of samples from the same source, will usually reveal the
cations necessitated by the differences in particle size.
amount of additional detailed microscopical work required to
10.1.1 Sizes Coarser than 600 µm (No. 30)—Each sieve
obtain information adequate for the purpose. In some instances,
fraction present that is coarser than the 600-µm (No. 30) sieve
petrographic methods other than microscopy, such as X-ray
should be reduced in accordance with one of the procedures in
diffraction, may be required or might most rapidly serve to
Practice C 702 until a split or splits containing at least 150
identify fine-grained rock materials.
particles are obtained. The reduced sample of each sieve
9.3 Condition—The separated groups belonging to each fraction should be examined, and its constituents identified and
rock type should be examined to determine whether a further counted, using the stereoscopic microscope. It is convenient to
separation by physical condition is necessary. If all of the spread out the sample in a flat-bottom glass dish such as a Petri
particles of a rock type are in a similar condition, that fact dish and manipulate the grains with a forceps and dissecting
should be noted. More frequently, particles in several degrees needle. The identification of grains in the coarser sand sizes is
of weathering will be found in a group. They should be sorted often easier when the grains are just submerged in water. The
into categories based on condition and on the expectation of submergence lessens reflection from the outer surfaces and
comparable behavior in concrete. The types of categories may show diagnostic features that cannot be seen when the
intended are: (1) fresh, dense; (2) moderately weathered; (3) grains are dry. There are exceptions to this generalization.
very weathered; or (1) dense; (2) porous (or porous and Where identification is difficult, the examination includes
friable). It usually is not practicable to recognize more than examination of the natural surface (dry and wet), examination
three conditions per rock type, and one or two may be of a broken surface (dry and wet), and scratch and acid tests.
sufficient. An important constituent present in larger quantities Only after all of these steps have been taken and the grain is
may sometimes require separation into four groups by condi- still unidentified should the petrographer resort to the petro-
tion. The conspicuous example is chert when it is the major graphic microscope. Grains that cannot be identified using the
constituent of a gravel sample. It may be present as dense, stereoscopic microscope, or that are suspected of consisting of
unfractured chert; as vuggy chert; as porous chert; and as dense or containing substances known to react deleteriously in
but highly fractured chert. The determination of which of these concrete, should be set aside to be examined with the petro-
four conditions characterizes a particle may be expected to graphic microscope. If the question of reaction with alkalies is
have an important influence on prediction of the behavior of important in the examination of the sample, certain additions to
the particle in concrete. the procedure are indicated. If the coarser sand sizes contain
9.4 Record: fine-grained, possibly glassy igneous rocks, several typical
9.4.1 Notes should be taken during the examination. Each particles of each variety of such rocks should be selected for a
rock type should be described; the relevant features may more thorough examination. The petrographer should deter-
include the following: mine the presence or absence of glass by crushing typical
9.4.1.1 Particle shape, grains and examining them in immersion media, using the
9.4.1.2 Particle surface texture, petrographic microscope. In difficult or especially important
9.4.1.3 Grain size, cases, it may be necessary to break suspected grains and to
9.4.1.4 Internal structure, including observations of pore make immersion mounts of part of the grain and a thin section
space, packing of grains, cementation of grains, of another part. Where the sand contains chert and the potential

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 C 295 – 08
reactivity of the chert is an important consideration, a number DRILLED CORE, LEDGE ROCK, CRUSHED STONE,
of chert particles from the fractions retained on the 600-µm AND MANUFACTURED SAND
(No. 30) sieve should be set aside for determinations of the
11. Procedure for Examination of Drilled Core
index of refraction. Methylene blue staining techniques may be
useful in identifying the presence of smectite (7). 11.1 Each core should be examined and a log prepared
10.1.2 Sizes Finer than 600 µm (No. 30)—The sieve frac- showing length of core recovered, core loss and location;
tions finer than the 600-µm (No. 30) sieve should each be location and spacing of fractures and parting planes; lithologic
reduced in a sample splitter or by quartering to about 4 or 5 g type or types; alternation of types; physical condition and
(Note 1). These splits should be further reduced on a miniature variations in condition; toughness, hardness (8), coherence;
sample splitter or by coning and quartering with a spatula on a obvious porosity; grain size, texture, variations in grain size
clean sheet of paper. The examination may be conducted as and texture; type or types of breakage; and presence of
described previously for the coarser sizes. As required, the constituents capable of deleterious reaction in concrete. If the
petrographic microscope should be used. For this purpose, a size of the core permits, the probability that the rock will make
representative portion of each reduced split should be mounted aggregate of the required maximum size should be considered.
in immersion oil on a clean glass slide and covered with a clean If the surface of the core being examined is wetted, it is usually
cover glass. No entirely satisfactory method of reducing a split easier to recognize significant features and changes in lithol-
to a predetermined number of grains is known. The reduced ogy. Most of the information usually required can be obtained
split can be sampled by spreading it in a thin layer on glass or by careful visual examination, scratch and acid tests, and
clean paper, dragging the end of a dissecting needle moistened hitting the core with a hammer. In the case of fine-grained
in immersion oil through the sample and transferring the grains rocks, it may be necessary to examine parts of the core, using
that adhere to the needle to a drop of immersion oil on a clean the stereoscopic microscope, or to prepare thin sections of
slide. If this is done carefully, a fairly representative sample selected portions. Some considerations and procedures are
will be obtained. If the dissecting needle is made of magnetized more applicable to particular rock types than to others. Ordi-
steel, a concentration of magnetic minerals may result. It is narily, the layered rocks considered for concrete aggregate will
usually necessary to make several mounts of the 300-µm (No. be limestone, and occasionally metamorphic rocks, such as
50) and 150-µm (No. 100) sieve fractions to obtain at least 150 phyllite, gneiss, or schist. One of the most important questions
grains of each. The refractive index of the immersion oil should arising in the examination of limestone is that of the presence,
be selected to make the identification of the important constitu- type, and distribution of argillaceous impurities. Limestones
ents as easy and as definite as possible. The use of an that contain intercalated thin beds of soft shale may make
immersion oil with an index of or just below the lower index suitable sources of aggregate if the shale is so distributed that
of quartz (1.544) is recommended. The slide should be it does not prevent manufacture of the required maximum size,
mounted on a petrographic microscope equipped with a me- and if the shale can be eliminated or reduced in processing.
chanical stage. Several traverses should be made, and each Where argillaceous impurities are present, it should be deter-
grain that passes under the intersection of the cross hairs should mined whether they actually consist of clay minerals or of
be identified and counted. Care should be taken to move the other minerals in clay sizes. If they do consist of clay minerals,
slide on the north-south adjustment between traverses so that it should be established whether the clay minerals include
no grain will be counted twice. Each sieve fraction passing the smectites (9). X-ray diffraction analysis is especially valuable
600-µm (No. 30) and retained on the 75-µm (No. 200) sieve in identification and quantitative determination of clay miner-
should be examined. Ordinarily, the material passing the 75-µm als. Methylene blue staining techniques (7) are useful in
(No. 200) sieve is mounted on a slide following the procedure identifying smectite. In the examination of fine-grained igne-
described above, examined by means of the petrographic ous rocks, particular attention should be directed to the nature
microscope, and its composition estimated. If an unusually of the groundmass. This examination should include determi-
large amount of this size is present, or if it contains constituents nation of the presence or absence of opal, chalcedony, natural
that may be expected to have an important effect on the glass, and swelling clays; if any of these are found the amount
suitability of the aggregate for the intended use, it should be should be estimated; if natural glass is found the type should be
counted. In this event, it is suggested that the fraction passing determined.
the 75-µm (No. 200) sieve be washed over the 45-µm (No. 325) 12. Procedure for Examination of Ledge Rock
sieve before being counted.
12.1 The procedure used in examination should be the same
NOTE 1—The volume will usually be less than a level teaspoonful. In as for core samples to the extent that the spacing of samples
some gradings the fractions retained on the 150-µm (No. 100) and 75-µm and size of the individual pieces allow. If the sample consists
(No. 200) sieves may be present in such small amounts that reduction is of a relatively large quantity of broken stone produced by
unnecessary.
blasting, it is desirable to inspect the whole sample, estimate
10.1.3 Grain thin sections using an epoxy as mounting the relative abundance of rock types or varieties present, and
medium also may be useful in classifying particles passing the sample each type before further processing. Subsequent pro-
300-µm (No. 50) sieve. cedure should be the same as given below for crushed stone.

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 C 295 – 08
13. Procedure for Examination of Crushed Stone age of the total amount (as number of particles in percent, in
13.1 The procedure for examination of crushed stone should each sieve fraction). It is convenient to calculate and record the
be similar to that for core, except that necessary quantitative percentages to tenths at this stage. An example of these
data should be obtained by particle counts of the separated calculations is given in the upper half of Table 2.
sieve fractions obtained as described in the section on Natural 15.1.2 Obtain the percentage by mass of the sieve fraction in
Gravel and Sand. the whole sample (individual percentages retained on consecu-
tive sieves) from the grading of the sample as determined by
14. Procedure for Examination of Manufactured Sand Method C 136.
14.1 The examination procedure should be similar to that 15.1.3 By multiplying the percentage of the constituent in
for natural sand, with particular emphasis on the amount and the sieve fraction, determined as described above by the
extent of fracturing and the amount and nature of rock dust percentage of the sieve fraction in the whole sample, obtained
developed by the milling operations. If a sample of the rock as described above, calculate the percentage in the whole
from which the sand was produced is available, examination of sample of that constituent in that size (weighted percentage of
it will provide useful information. constituents in sieve fraction, Table 2). It is convenient to
calculate and record these percentages to tenths.
CALCULATION AND REPORT 15.1.4 By adding the weighted percentages of each constitu-
ent in each sieve fraction, obtain the weighted percentage of
15. Calculation each constituent in the whole sample (see under weighted
15.1 Calculate the composition of each sieve fraction of a composition of sample in Table 2).
heterogeneous sample and the weighted average composition 15.1.5 Construct a table to show the composition of each
of the whole sample as follows: sieve fraction and the weighted composition of the whole
15.1.1 Express the composition of each sieve fraction by sample. Report values to the nearest whole number. Report
summing the total number of particles of that fraction counted, constituents amounting to 0.5 % or less of a sieve fraction or of
and calculating each constituent in each condition as a percent- the whole sample as traces. Table 3 is an example constructed

TABLE 2 Calculation of Results of Particle CountsA

Individual Composition of Fractions Retained on Sieves Shown Below
Percentage
19.0-mm (3⁄4-in.) 12.5-mm (1⁄2-in.) 9.5-mm (3⁄8-in.) 4.75-mm (No. 4)
Retained
on Sieve 17.4 32.6 29.5 20.5
Number of Number of Number of Number of
ConstituentsB % % % %
Particles Particles Particles Particles
A1 250 50.0 200 40.0 150 30.0 50 10.0
A2 50 10.0 100 20.0 125 25.0 100 20.0
A3 10 2.0 50 10.0 75 15.0 100 20.0
B1 107 21.4 70 14.0 62 12.4 32 6.4
B2 76 15.2 53 10.6 19 3.8 87 17.4
B3 ... ... 20 4.0 43 8.6 96 19.2
C1 5 1.0 5 1.0 20 4.0 20 4.0
C2 2 0.4 2 0.4 6 1.2 10 2.0
C3 ... ... ... ... ... ... 5 1.0
Totals 500C 100 500C 100 500C 100 500C 100

Weighted Percentages of Constituents in Each Sieve Fraction

Weighted Composition
19.0-mm 12.5-mm 9.5-mm 4.75-mm of Sample
(3⁄4-in.) (1⁄2-in.) (3⁄8-in.) (No. 4)
A1 8.7 13.0 8.9 2.1 32.7 64.6 (Total A)
A2 1.7 6.5 7.4 4.1 19.7
A3 0.4 3.3 4.4 4.1 12.2
B1 3.7 4.6 3.7 1.3 13.3 31.8 (Total B)
B2 2.6 3.5 1.1 3.6 10.8
B3 ... 1.3 2.5 3.9 7.7
C1 0.2 0.3 1.2 0.8 2.5 3.6 (Total C)
C2 0.1 0.1 0.3 0.4 0.9
C3 ... ... ... 0.2 0.2
Total in sieve fraction 17.4 32.6 29.5 20.5
Total in sample, condition 1 48.5
Total in sample, condition 2 31.4
Total in sample, condition 3 20.1
A
This table indicates a convenient method of setting up a work sheet for recording results and calculations. The results developed here are entered in the form indicated
by Table number 3. Table number 3 is included in the petrographic report. Table number 2 is not.
B
Letters (A, B, C) refer to the various constituents found, subscript numbers (1, 2, 3) refer to the various conditions in which each constituent has been found, such as
relative degree of weathering.
C
The recommendation concerning the number of particles to be counted has been met; the selection of 500 particles per fraction for the example is to illustrate the
calculation; it is not intended to suggest that a predetermined number of particles per fraction should be selected.

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 C 295 – 08
TABLE 3 Composition and Condition of an Aggregate Sample (Table Constructed from Calculations Shown in Table Number 2)A
Amount, as Number of Particles in Percent
In Fractions Retained on Sieves Shown BelowB In Whole SampleC
Constituents
19.0-mm 12.5-mm 9.5-mm 4.75-mm Condition Condition Condition
Totals
(3⁄4-in.) (1⁄2-in.) (3⁄8-in.) (No. 4) 1 2 3
A 62 70 70 50 33 20 12 65
B 37 29 25 43 13 11 8 32
C 1 1 5 7 2 1 tr 3
Total 100 100 100 100 ... ... ... 100
Weighted average, condition 1 48 ... ... ...
Weighted average, condition 2 ... 32 ... ...
Weighted average, condition 3 ... ... 20 ...
A
For other forms of presentation of results of petrographic analysis, see Table numbers 1- 4 in (10).
B
Based on count of 500 particles in each sieve fraction. (The number of particles of each sieve fraction counted should be shown in the report and this may conveniently
be done as a footnote to the table.)
C
Based on grading of the sample as received, and on the distribution of constituents by sieve fractions shown at the left above. (If the petrographic report forms part
of a complete investigation of the sample, including a report of the grading, the grading need not be shown. If the petrographic report is to be submitted alone, the grading
of the sample should be included with it.)

from the data obtained in Table 2. As a convention, the total in add that the material appears acceptable for use provided the
each sieve fraction and the total in the whole sample shall each applicable acceptance tests are made and the results are within
be 100 % without the traces. Difficulties in abiding by this the appropriate limits. The report should not, however, contain
convention can usually be avoided by grouping minor constitu- conclusions other than those based upon the finding of the
ents of little engineering importance. It is preferable to tabulate examination unless the additional data to support such conclu-
constituents known to react deleteriously in concrete so that sions are included in or with the petrographic report and the
their distribution will be apparent from inspection of the table, petrographer has been authorized to analyze the other relevant
even though the amount in the whole sample or in any fraction nonpetrographic data.
is very small. 16.3 The petrographic report should include recommenda-
tions regarding any additional petrographic, chemical, physi-
16. Report cal, or geological investigations that may be required to
16.1 The report of the petrographic examination should evaluate adverse properties that are indicated by the petro-
summarize the essential data needed to identify the sample as graphic examination that has been performed. Supplementary
to source and proposed use, and include a description giving petrographic investigations might include qualitative or quan-
the essential data on composition and properties of the material titative analysis of the aggregate or of selected portions thereof
as revealed by the examination. The report should record the by X-ray diffraction, differential thermal methods, or other
test procedures employed, and give a description of the nature procedures that are directed to identification and description of
and features of each important constituent of the sample, the constituents of the aggregate.
accompanied by such tables and photographs as may be
required. The findings and conclusions should be expressed in 17. Precision and Bias
terms likely to be intelligible to those who must make decisions 17.1 Those test methods that are used in connection with
as to the suitability of a material for use as concrete aggregate. this guide that have been standardized in ASTM are subject to
16.2 When the sample has been found to possess properties having precision and bias sections. Those that have not been
or constituents that are known to have specific unfavorable standardized will each be provided with such a section, if and
effects in concrete, those properties or constituents should be when standardized. None of the nonstandardized procedures
described qualitatively and, to the extent practicable, quantita- mentioned for optional use in this practice are used in ways that
tively. The unfavorable effects that may be expected to ensue in lend themselves to the preparation of precision and bias
concrete should be mentioned. When appropriate, it should be statements.
stated that a given sample was not found to contain any
undesirable features. When such is the case it may also be 18. Keywords
appropriate, especially if the report of the petrographic exami- 18.1 aggregate; analysis; composition; crushed rock;
nation is not accompanied by reports of results of physical and crushed stone; examination; ledge rock; manufacture sand;
chemical tests for which numerical limits may be applicable, to natural sand; petrography; quarry

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 C 295 – 08
REFERENCES

(1) Mather, Katharine and Mather, Bryant, “Method of Petrographic Vol 17, No. 5, pp. 233-238, 1931.
Examination of Aggregates for Concrete,” Proceedings, ASTM, (7) Higgs, Nelson B., “Preliminary Studies of Methylene Blue Adsorption
ASTEA, Vol 50, pp. 1288-1312, 1950. as a Method of Evaluating Degradable Smectite-Bearing Concrete
(2) Kerr, Paul F., “Optical Mineralology,” McGraw-Hill Book Company, Aggregate Sands,” Cement and Concrete Research, Vol 16, pp.
NY, NY, 1977. 528-534, 1986.
(3) Jenkins, Snyder, “Introduction to X-ray Powder Diffractometery,” (8) Woolf, D.O., “Methods for the Determination of Soft Pieces in
John Wiley and Sons, Inc, NY, NY, 1996. Aggregate,” Proceedings, ASTM, Vol 47, p. 967, 1947.
(4) Williams, Turner, Gilbert, “Petrography an Introduction to the Study of (9) Carroll, Dorothy, “Clay Minerals: A Guide to Their X-Ray Identifica-
Rocks in Thin Section,” W.H. Freeman and Co., NY, NY, 1982. tion,” Special Paper 126, The Geological Society of America, 1970.
(5) Simpson, G.G., and Rowe, A., Quantitative Zoology, McGraw-Hill (10) Mielenz, Richard C., “Petrographic Evaluation of Concrete Aggre-
Col, Inc., New York, NY, pp. 182-185, 1950. gates,” Chapter 31, Significance of Tests and Properties of Concrete
(6) Dryden, A.L., Jr., “Accuracy in Percentage Representation of Heavy and Concrete-Making Materials, Paul and Joseph F. Lamond, eds.,
Mineral Frequencies,” Proceedings, U.S. Nat. Academy of Sciences, ASTM STP 169, pp. 341-364, 1994.

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee C09 has identified the location of selected changes to this guide since the last issue, C 295 – 03,
that may impact the use of this guide. (Approved July 1, 2008)

(1) Added new Section 3 and renumbered subsequent sections.

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