BS 1924 : Part 1 : 1990

British Standard

Stabilized materials for

civil engineering purposes
Part 1. General requirements, sampling, sample preparation and
tests on materials before stabilization

Matériaux stabilisés pour le génie civil

Partie 1. Caractéristiques générales, échantillonnage, préparation des échantillons et essais des matériaux
avant stabilisation
Stabilisierte Baustoffe für den Tiefbau
Teil 1. Allgemeines, Probenahme und Probenvorbereitung, Prüfung vor der Stabilisierung

NO COPYING WITHOUT BSI PERMISSION EXCEPT AS PERMITTED BY COPYRIGHT LAW

BS 1924 : Part 1 : 1990

Foreword

This Part of BS 1924 has been prepared under the direction This revision includes all the tests, with minor exceptions,
of the Road Engineering Standards Policy Committee. It is for materials stabilized with lime or cement that were
Part 1 of a revision in two Parts of BS 1924 : 1975, which included in the 1975 edition but does not include any tests
is now withdrawn. for materials stabilized with bitumen. In deciding to
The two Parts of BS 1924 are: exclude tests for bitumen-stabilized materials from the
revision the Committee consulted extensively on the
Part 1. General requirements, sampling, sample __
currency and use of the tests in the 1975 edition and on
preparation and tests on materials before
the existence of or need for other tests. Reader’s comments
stabilization;
are invited on the need for and contents of a further Part,
Part 2. Methods of test for cement-stabiiized and (Part 3) of this British Standard for such tests*.
lime-stabilized materials.
Lime, and to a lesser extent cement, may also be used to
The tests for materials in the unstabilized state are given modify rather than to stabilize a material. Modified
in Part 1 by reference to other British Standards. Except materials are usually natural soils and probably fine-
where they are seldom used or the test procedures are grained but may be by-products of industrial processes,
identical in all respects, the tests for materials in the e.g. colliery spoil. The object of the modification process
stabilized condition included in Part 2 are given in full, is to improve the properties of the soil such as shear
although they may be similar to tests in other British strength, durability, etc. but the modified material retains
Standards. This is to provide a complete and comprehen- many of the properties of soil. The process may,
sive document for use by testing laboratories, and because for example, be used to render an unsuitable material
the tests themselves have to be modified to take account suitable by modifying the plasticity characteristics. In these
of the presence of the stabilizing agent. This particularly cases the tests in this standard may be suitable but equally
applies to sample preparation. the soil tests in BS 1377 referred to in the text may be
The title of the standard has been amended to reflect the considered to be applicable to measure the change in
wider scope of this revision, which is intended to cover, properties caused by modifying the soil or other material.
in addition to soils, materials which when stabilized with It has been assumed in the drafting of this standard that
cement or lime may be used for civil engineering purposes. the execution of its provisions is entrusted to appropriately
Although concerned principally with Portland cement, experienced people, for whose guidance it has been
hydrated lime (calcium hydroxide) and quicklime (calcium prepared.
oxide) it is also applicable to other cements and types of
Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself
lime, including those in which pulverised fuel ash (pfa) or
confer immunity from legal obligations.
slag are the major components.

*Comments should be sent to the Secretary, Technical Committee RDB/9, BSI, 2 Park Street, London W1A 2BS.
 BS 1924 : Part 1 : 1990

Contents

Page
Foreword Inside front cover
Committees responsible Back cover

Methods
1 Scope 2
2 Definitions 2
3 Symbols and units 4
4 General 4
4.1 Grouping of materials 4
4.2 Apparatus 4
4.3 Materials 7
4.4 Environmental requirements 6
5 Sampling 6
5.1 Principle 8
5.2 Apparatus 8
5.3 Sampling procedure 9
5.4 Sample reduction 9
5.5 Despatch of samples 10
5.6 Certificate of sampling 10
6 Preparation of samples for testing 10
6.1 Apparatus 10
6.2 Initial preparation of unstabilized materials 10
6.3 Blending materials with water and stabilizer 11
7 Tests on materials before stabilization 11
7.1 Determination of moisture content 11
7.2 Determination of particle-size distribution 11
7.3 Determination of plasticity properties 11
7.4 Determination of ten percent fines value
(TFV) 11
7.5 Determination of sulphate content 12
7.6 Determination of chloride content 12
7.7 Determination of total organic content 12

Appendix
A Recommendations for sampling 13

Tables
1 Fraction particle size and test sieves 2
2 Categories of balance 4
3 Accuracy and graduation requirements of
thermometers 5
4 Composition of bulk sample 9

Figures
1 Terms used in compaction tests 3
2 Sampling scoops 8

1
BS 1924 : Part 1 : 1990

Methods

1 Scope 2.14 bulk sample. An aggregation of the sampling

increments.
This Part of BS 1924 deals with general requirements, 2.15 laboratory sample. A sample intended for laboratory
sampling, sample preparation and preliminary tests carried inspection or testing.
out on materials in the unstabilized condition to assess
2.16 test portion. The material used as a whole in testing
their suitability for stabilization.
or inspection.
NOTE. The titles of the publications referred to in this standard
are listed on page 13. 2.17 quartering. The reduction in quantity of a large sample
of material by dividing a circular heap into four approxi-
mately equal parts by diameters at right angles, removing
2 Definitions two diagonally opposite quarters, and mixing the two
remaining quarters intimately together so as to obtain a
For the purposes of this Part of BS 1924 the following truly representative half of the original mass, then repeat-
definitions apply. ing the process until a representative sample of the
2.1 particle size distribution. The percentages of various appropriate size is obtained.
grain sizes present in a material as determined by sieving
and sedimentation. Table 1. Fraction particle size and test sieves
2.2 cobbles*. Rounded or sub-angular particles of sizes
Fraction Particle size Sizes of test sieves to
between 200 mm and 60 mm. be used for separation†‡
2.3 gravel fraction*. The fraction composed of particles
between the sizes of 60 mm and 2 mm. See note to 2.5. mm
(a) Gravel fraction
2.4 sand fraction*. The fraction composed of particles
Coarse gravel 60 to 20 63 mm to 20 mm
between the sizes of 2.0 mm and 0.06 mm. See note
Medium gravel 20 to 6 20 mm to 6.3 mm
to 2.5.
Fine gravel 6to 2 6.3 mm to 2.0 mm
2.5 silt fraction*. The fraction composed of particles
(b) Sand fraction
between the sizes 0.06 mm and 0.002 mm.
Coarse sand 2.0 to 0.6 2.0 mm to 600 µm
NOTE. The gravel, sand and tilt fractions may be subdivided as
in table 1.
Medium sand 0.6 to 0.2 600 µm to 212 µm
Fine sand 0.2 to 0.06 212 µm to 63 µm
2.6 day fraction*. The fraction composed of particles
smaller in size than 0.002 mm. (c) Silt fraction
Coarse silt 0.06 to 0.02 -
2.7 cohesive material. All material which by virtue of Medium silt 0.02 to 0.006 -
its clay content will form a coherent mass. Fine silt 0.006 to 0.002 -
2.9 non-cohasive material (granular material). A material
which will not form a coherent mass. †These are the test sieve sizes nearest to the theoretical sizes. When the
2.0 mm and 63 πm sieves are not available the 2.36 mm and 75 µm test
2.9 sampling. The selection of a representative portion sieves may be used in most cases without seriously affecting the result.
of material. ‡See 2.30.

2.10 representative sample. A sample taken to represent

a body of material in order to study its average properties.
2.18 riffling. The reduction in quantity of a large sample
2.11 spot sample. A sample taken from control tests of material by dividing the mass into two approximately
carried out during construction work which represents equal halves by passing the sample through an appro-
only the material in that larger sample from which it was priately sized sample divider, e.g. a riffle box, then repeat-
taken. ing the process until a sample of the required size is
obtained.
2.12 batch (stockpile). A definite quantity of material
produced under conditions which are presumed uniform. 2.19 compaction. The process of packing stabilized
NOTE. With a continuous process such es is used in most work particles more closely together by rolling or mechanical
connected with cement and lime stabilization the quantity produced means, thus increasing the dry density of the stabilized
in a stated period should be treated as a batch. material.
2.13 sampling increment. A quantity of material taken at NOTE. This term should not be confused with consolidation,
which is the process whereby soil particles are packed more
one time from a larger body of material.
closely together over e period of time by application of continued
NOTE. The material taken by a single operation of the scoop should pressure.
be treated as a sampling increment.

*These classifications are based solely on particle size and give no indication of the mineralogy of the material.

2
 BS 1924 : Part 1 : 1990

2.20 bulk density. The mass of material (including solid 2.22 percentage air voids. The volume of air voids in
particles, any contained water and any fluid stabilizer) the material expressed as a percentage of the total volume
per unit volume, including voids. of the material.

2.21 dry density. The mass of material after drying to 2.25 air voids line. A line showing the relation between
constant mass at 105 ºC, and after removal of any fluid the dry density and moisture content for a material con-
stabilizers, contained in unit volume of undried material taining a constant percentage of air voids.
(see note to 2.28). NOTE. Figure 1 shows a method of deriving the optimum moisture
content and maximum dry density from the dry density/moisture
2.22 moisture content. The mass of free water which content relationship. The dry density/moisture content relationship
can be removed from a material, usually by heating does not always take the form shown in figure 1, particularly with
at 105 º C, expressed as a percentage of the dry mass coarse-grained materials where the relation may not be wall defined.
(see note to 2.28). Figure 1 also shows air voids lines. The line can be calculated from
the equation:
NOTE. Although the term moisture content has been used

)/ (
throughout this standard the term water content is also widely
used and either may be employed. ρd = ρw
[(1- va
100
1
ρs
+ w
100
)]
2.22 optimum moisture content. The moisture content where
at which a specified amount of compaction will produce ρ d = the dry density of the material (in Mg/m³);
a maximum dry density (see note to 2.28). ρ w = the density of water (in Mg/m³);

2.24 maximum dry density. The dry density obtained Va = the volume of air voids in the material (as a percentage
of the total volume of the material);
using a specified amount of compaction at the optimum
moisture content (see note to 2.28). ρs = the particle density*;
w = the moisture content, expressed es a percentage of ry
2.25 relative compaction. The percentage ratio of the material.
dry density of the material to the maximum dry density of
2.29 saturation line (zero air voids line). A line showing
that material as determined by a specified laboratory
the dry density/moisture content relation for a material
compaction test.
containing no air voids.
2.25 dry density/moisture content relationship. The rela- NOTE. The saturation line is also shown in figure 1. It is obtained
tion between dry density and moisture contentaof by putting Va = 0 in the equation given in definition 2.28.
material when a given compactive effort is employed (see
2.30 test sieve. A sieve complying with BS 410.
note to 2.28).

19

Maximum d
-

Compactio

16

30

Moisture content (%)

Figure 1. Terms used in compaction tests

*The term ‘particle density’ has bean chosen in preference to ‘specific gravity’ used in earlier editions of BS 1924 as the latter term is
now deprecated.
3
BS 1924 : Part 1 : 1990

3 Symbols and units 4.2.2 Tolerances

[Link] Manufacturing tolerances
For the purposes of this standard, the following symbols
[Link].1 Linear dimensions Drawings indicating the
and units are used.
specified requirements of apparatus used for the tests
Term Symbol unit
described in this British Standard include essential dimen-
Moisture content w % sions, marked l , for which manufacturing tolerances or
Liquid Limit wL % limits are given. All other dimensions are given for
Plastic Limit wP % guidance.
Bulk density ρ Mg/m³ *
[Link].2 Mass Where mass is specified, the manufacturing
Dry density ρd Mg/m³ * tolerance on the mass shall be within ± 1 % unless other-
Particle density ρs Mg/m³ * wise stated.
Percentage air voids Va %
[Link].3 Working tolerances. Working tolerances which
California Bearing Ratio CBR %
apply to apparatus after being subjected to wear in use,
Compressive strength P MPa† shall not exceed twice the manufacturing tolerance unless
Tensile strength ºct Pa otherwise specified.
4.2.3 Specification for test apparatus
4 General [Link].1 Measuring instruments

4.1 Grouping of materials [Link].1 Balances and weights. The categories of balance
given in table 2 are examples of those which cover the
For the purposes of the tests described in this British
requirements of the tests in this standard. Balances may
Standard, materials shall be grouped as follows:
incorporate an analogue or digital display. Each set of
(a) fine-grained: materials containing less than 10 % ancillary weights shall be calibrated in accordance
retained on a 2 mm test sieve; with [Link].1.
(b) medium-grained: materials containing more than The balance selected for weighing shall enable the mass
10 % retained on a 2 mm test sieve but not more than to be determined to the accuracy required for the purpose
10 % retained on a 20 mm sieve; of the test. Calibration of balances shall comply
(c) coarse-grained: materials containing more than 10 % with [Link].1. Balances shall be labelled showing
retained on a 20 mm test sieve but not more than 10 % limitations of use with regard to the lower end of their
retained on a 37.5 mm sieve. range as determined by calibration.
Any material shall be regarded as belonging to the finest-
grained group appropriate under the definitions given Table 2. Categories of balance
above.
NOTE. In those cases where the grouping of the material is not Scale interval Maximum error
or digit of weighing
known in advance or is not self-evident a portion should be sieved
following the procedure given in 5.3. Materials with a greater
proportion than approximately 10 % retained on a 37.5 mm test g g
sieve cannot usefully be examined by the majority of tests
described in this British Standard. 200 g 0.001 0.005
1200 g 0.01 0.05
4.2 Apparatus 2 kg 0.1 0.3
5 kg 0.5 1
4.2.1 General. The apparatus required for each test method 10 kg 1 3
shall be as listed in the appropriate clause and Part of this
25 kg 5 10
standard.
50 kg 20 25
NOTE. Specifications for items of general apparatus that are used
in more than one test method are given in 4.2.4. Apparatus used
only for one test method is specified in that method. [Link].2 Thermometers Thermometers having the
Each item shall be checked before use to ensure that it graduations given in table 3 are suitable and shall be
complies with its specification, calibration requirements selected as appropriate to the requirements of the test.
and the relevant general requirements given in this clause.
For mercury-in-glass thermometers the form of the
A piece of apparatus referred to as a calibrated item shall graduations shall comply with clause 8 of BS 593 : 1974.
have been calibrated in accordance with its specification The calibration of thermometers shall comply
and as described in 4.2.7 where appropriate. with [Link].2.
General items of test apparatus shall comply with the
relevant British Standards. [Link].3 Length measurement instruments
[Link].3.1 Engineer’s steel rule, with scale divisions every
*kg/m³ may also be used: 1005 kg/m” = 1 Mg/m³. 0.5 mm and calibrated in accordance with [Link].3.
†MPa = 1 N/mm’ = 1MN/m².
 BS 1924 : Part 1 : 1990

[Link] Moulds for the preparation of strength test

Table 3. Accuracy and graduation requirements specimens The moulds shall be manufactured from ferrous
of thermometers metal. The material shall have a hardness value of at least
95 HRB when determined in accordance with BS 891 or
Accuracy of Graduation intervals of at least 197 Brinell when determined in accordance
reading with BS 240. All parts of the moulds shall be robust enough
to prevent distortion in use.
ºC ºC
[Link] Heaters An electric hotplate shall be fitted with
0.2 not greater than 0.1
an adjustable temperature control to provide boiling and
0.5 not greater than 0.2
simmering temperatures.
1 not greater than 0.5
NOTE. A bunsen (or other gas) burner, with tripod and gauze,
may be used es an alternative controlled source of heat.

[Link].3.2 Vernier calipers, for internal and external [Link] Wax [Link] electrically heated wax bath shall
measurements, readable to 0.1 mm or better and calibrated be fitted with an adjustable temperature control to enable
in accordance with [Link].3. the wax to be maintained at a temperature just above its
melting point. Excessive heating of wax shall be avoided.
[Link].3.3 Try-square
NOTE. An engineer’s steel try-square is suitable. [Link] Sample dividers When sample dividers are used
they shall be of a size appropriate to the largest particle
[Link].3.4 Micrometers, readable to 0.01 mm or 0.002 mm contained in the sample to be divided.
or better, depending on the resolution specified in the test
method. Calibration shall be in accordance with [Link].3. 4.2.5 Special apparatus Apparatus required only for a
particular test or series of related tests is specified under
[Link].3.5 Dial gauges, readable to 0.01 mm or 0.002 mm the relevant test method. Calibration of such apparatus
or better, depending on the range of travel required by the shall comply with the general requirements of 4.2.7 and
test method and calibrated in accordance with [Link].3. as specified in the relevant test procedure.
[Link].4 Timers Timers shall be calibrated in accordance 4.2.6 Laboratory reference standards
with [Link].4.
[Link] Reference standards for in-house calibration.
NOTE. Stopwatches or stopclocks readable to 1 s are suitable.
A suitably placed wall clock with seconds hand, and large enough
Where calibration of test measuring instruments is carried
to read to 1 s from the work station, is an acceptable alternative. out in- house the laboratory shall hold reference standards
or instruments that are used solely for calibration purposes
[Link].5 Volumetric [Link] shall be cali- as required by BS 5781. Reference standards or instruments
brated in accordance with [Link].6. shall be retained securely in a suitable environment separate
NOTE. Volumetric glassware complying with class B of BS 5898 from working standards or instruments when not in use.
is adequate.
Reference standards and instruments suitable for use for
4.2.4 General apparatus the purposes of this standard shall be calibrated and
[Link] Ovens Ovens used for drying material shall certified as specified in [Link] and [Link]. They shall be
of at least one order of accuracy better than working items
incorporate a temperature control which can be set to
maintain a selected temperature within the range 45 ºC so that the desired accuracy of the test measurement is
to 110 ± 5 ºC. Each oven shall have provision for insert achieved. Recalibration of reference standards shall be at
ing a calibrated temperature indicating device of the intervals not greater than those specified in [Link] for
required range of accuracy. each type of instrument. Notwithstanding these intervals,
whenever a change in accuracy of a reference instrument
NOTE. A circulation fan may be fitted as an aid to uniform
temperature distribution.
is suspected, or when a reference instrument has been
repaired, dismantled, adjusted or overhauled, it shall be
Ovens shall be calibrated in accordance with [Link].1. recalibrated before further use.
[Link] Test sieves. Test sieves shall comply with [Link] Traceability of reference standard. Reference
BS 410. Sieves with aperture sizes of 5 mm and above shall standards and instruments shall have official certification
be perforated plate square hole test sieves. Sieves with provided by the competent national body, e.g. National
aperture sizes of less than 5 mm shall be woven wire test Physical Laboratory (NPL), National Weights and
sieves. Measures Laboratory (NWML), or by a laboratory
Each sieve shall be separately identified and the certificates currently recognized for that purpose within the National
issued with each sieve by the manufacturer shall be retained Measurement system e.g. a National Measurement Accredi-
throughout its working life. tation Service (NAMAS) accredited calibration laboratory,
Calibration checks on sieves shall be carried out in
accordance with [Link].2.

5
BS 1924 : Part 1 : 1990

or by an acceptable international body. The certificate for the relevant item. The certificate shall include the
shall show traceability to national standards. following information and shall be retained:
[Link] Specifications for reference standards and (a) name of calibrating organization;
instruments (b) for whom calibrated, and location;
[Link].1 Reference weights Calibrated and certified (c) description of the item calibrated, including
reference weights used for calibrating balances and working identification number;
weights shall be kept separate from working weights in a (d) method of calibration;
secure place and in a suitable environment. Reference (e) equipment used, including reference devices;
weights shall be initially recalibrated after 2 years and
(f) calibration certificate reference of the reference
every 5 years thereafter.
device against which the instrument was calibrated,
[Link].2 Reference thermometers. Mercury- in-glass and the traceability route;
thermometers used as reference thermometers for calibrat- (g) calibration temperature;
ing laboratory working thermometer shall be calibrated
(h) calibration data and results;
before first use. They shall be recalibrated or replaced at
five year intervals. (i) date of calibration;
NOTE. Thermometers complying with BS 593 are suitable for use (j) date when next calibration is due, if appropriate;
as reference thermometers if calibrated.
(k) signature of person responsible for the calibration.
Calibrated thermocouples and platinum-resistance thermo-
meters used as reference instruments shall be recalibrated [Link].3 In-house calibration. Calibration shall be carried
at least once a year. out in-house only by suitably qualified and experienced
staff, and in accordance with written procedures for each
[Link].3 Dimensional measuring standards. Gauge blocks type of item. Reference instruments or standards against
shall comply with BS 4311 and shall be recalibrated at which working instruments are calibrated shall comply
5 year intervals. with, and shall be kept, used and maintained in accordance
with the requirements of 4.2.6.
[Link] Proving devices for force measurement. Proving
rings or calibrated electrical force transducers used for Calibration records shall include the following, and shall
calibrating laboratory working load measuring devices be retained on file:
shall be of grade 1 .O when calibrated in accordance with (a) description of the instrument calibrated, including
BS 1610 : Part 2. Each load measuring device shall be identification number;
calibrated against a proving device of appropriate range (b) method of calibration;
and sensitivity.
(c) equipment used, including reference devices;
NOTE. Care should be taken when calibrating load measuring
devices against proving devices, to eliminate potential hazards (d) calibration certificate reference of the reference
due to incorrect alignment of ball or plate seatings when loads device(s);
are applied.
(e) calibration temperature;
4.2.7 Calibration and checking of test equipment (f) calibration data and results;

[Link] Traceability. All measurements necessary for the (g) date of calibration;
performance of tests covered by this standard shall be trace- (h) date when next calibration is due, if appropriate;
able as applicable, to UK national standards of measure- (i) signature of person responsible for the calibration.
ments through an unbroken chain of calibrations.
The number of links in the chain shall be no larger than [Link] Frequency of calibration, Routine recalibration of
necessary to achieve the required accuracy. measuring instruments shall be carried out at intervals that
are based on usage and on the analysis of documented
[Link] External and in-house calibration calibration data so as to ensure the required accuracy is
[Link].1 General requirements Calibrations shall be not lost between calibrations. The periods specified
carried out either by an external organization, or in-house in [Link] are the maximum periods for each type of
by the laboratory’s own staff. In either case traceability instrument.
to UK national standards shall be achieved. Systems used Whenever a change in accuracy of an instrument is
shall comply with the principles given in BS 5781, as well suspected, or when an instrument has been repaired,
as the requirements given in [Link] and under the relevant dismantled, adjusted or overhauled, it shall be recalibrated
test method, where appropriate. All calibrated equipment before further use.
shall be used only over the range for which it has been
[Link] Calibration of measuring instruments
calibrated.
[Link].1 Balances Balances shall be checked, adjusted
[Link].2 External calibration. When calibration is carried
and calibrated over their working range, using certified
out under contract by an external organization, traceability
reference weights, at least once a year, or at shorter
shall be established by the use of a certificate of calibration
intervals if necessary to prevent the maximum error of
readings exceeding the values specified in [Link].1.

6
 BS 1924 : Part 1 : 1990

[Link].2 Thermometers Mercury-in-glass thermometers (2) Master sieves Working test sieves shall be checked
complying with BS 593 shall be calibrated or replaced against a master set of sieves retained exclusively for
after not more than 5 years and at intervals not exceeding that purpose. The check procedure shall be to
5 years thereafter. Other mercury- in-glass thermometers dry-sieve a test portion, which gives approximately
shall be calibrated against a reference standard before 50 % retained on the test sieve being checked,
first use and shall be recalibrated or replaced at intervals on both sets of sieves consecutively for a controlled
not exceeding 5 years. period and to compare the masses retained on each
If thermocouples are used they shall be calibrated against sieve of each set. It will be necessary to use a different
a reference thermocouple, platinum-resistance thermometer test portion with each sieve size.
or reference mercury-in-glass thermometer at least once A sieve shall fail the performance check when the corres-
every 6 months. ponding masses on individual sieves of the same mesh size
differ by more than 5 percent.
[Link].3 Dimensional measuring instruments Steel rules
shall be checked before first use and examined for read- Test sieves which fail measurement or performance checks
ability and for wear at their ends at least once a year. shall be clearly marked and either discarded or used as
protection sieves where appropriate.
Vernier calipers and micrometers shall be calibrated at
NOTE. Wear and tear on sieves is very dependent on their manner
least once a year against reference gauge blocks. of use and the abrasiveness of the material being used. Until the
Micrometers shall be calibrated at least once a year in laboratory therefore has sufficient records to indicate rates of
accordance with BS 870. wear and thus fix meaningful check periods, performance checks
should be at intervals of not more than three months.
Dial gauges shall be calibrated at least once a year against
a calibrated micrometer device, or in a comparator frame [Link].3 Moulds and other items Items of equipment such
using gauge blocks or length bars. as moulds shall be checked by determining their internal
measurements and mass. These determinations shall be
[Link].4 Timers Timing devices such as stopclocks and
carried out on new items and shall be repeated at intervals,
stopwatches shall be calibrated at least once a year to
depending on frequency of use, to allow for wear. When the
within 1 s in 5 min.
change due to wear exceeds the permitted working
[Link].5 Volumetric glassware. In- house calibration of tolerance the item shall be discarded.
volumetric glassware may be carried out by weighing the
4.3 Materials
v:* amount of distilled water, of known temperature, that the
vessel contains or delivers at a measured temperature.
4.3.1 Distilled water. Where distilled water is specified it
A calibrated balance shall be used, and the temperature
shall be produced either by distillation or by the use of
correction tables in BS 1797 shall be applied.
deionizing apparatus. The latter shall incorporate a device
[Link] Calibration and checking of general apparatus for measuring the electrical conductivity of the water which
includes a means of indicating when an acceptable upper
[Link].1 Ovens The temperature at the midpoint of the limit is reached.
useable oven space of an empty oven shall be verified at
Distilled water whether produced by distillation or
least once a year by means of a calibrated temperature
de-ionization shall comply with the following requirements.
measuring device.
(a) The non-volatile residue shall be not more than 5 mg
[Link].2 Test sieves All test sieves shall be checked as per litre when tested in accordance with appendix A of
follows: BS 3978 : 1987.
(a) Visual checks Sieves shall be checked visually by (b) The pH value shall be not lower than 5.0 or higher
the operator before each use. A detailed visual check than 7.5.
shall be made of the condition of every sieve at regular
intervals depending on use. 4.3.2 Chemical reagents Chemical reagents used in carry-
ing out the tests given in this standard shall be of recognized
(b) Measurement checks The apertures of perforated
analytical quality. The date of preparation of all chemical
plate test sieves shall be measured in accordance with
solutions shall be recorded on their containers.
appendix F of BS 410 : 1986 at least once a year.
NOTE. The shelf life of all solutions needs to be teken into account
(c) Performance checks The apertures of woven wire and fresh solutions prepared as necessary.
cloth test sieves shall be checked at regular intervals
depending on use, by either of the following methods. 4.3.3 Storage containers Containers into which samples
(1) Reference sample. Reference samples, consisting of stabilized material are placed shall be of glass or plastics
preferably of rounded or sub-rounded particles, or corrosion-resistant metal.
of known particle size distribution, and having NOTE. Aluminium and zinc-galvanized containers are not suitable
for storing cement or lime-stebilized materials.
approximately 50 % retained on the sieve being
checked, shall be used to check each working test Containers for samples from which the moisture content
sieve. is to be determined shall be capable of being sealed to
prevent loss or gain of moisture.

7
BS 1924 : Part 1 : 1990

4.3.4 Paraffin wax. Paraffin wax used for sealing or coating 5.1 Principle
samples shall be of microcrystalline grade, which has low For most testing of stabilized materials the principle will
shrinkage and a low melting point. Wax shall not be heated be to obtain a test portion that is representative of the
more than is necessary to cause it to melt, and whenever average property of a batch, i.e. a representative sample as
possible a temperature-controlled wax pot shall be used. defined in 2.10. The methods of sampling and sample
reduction given in 5.3 and 5.4 are designed to achieve
4.4 Environmental requirements this aim.
4.4.1 Temperature control. When laboratory temperature These methods may not, however, be applicable where it
control is specified the system shall be capable of maintain- is intended to take spot samples to find the variability of
ing a constant ambient temperature to within ± 2 ºC of that the material within a batch. Here the sampling increments
specified day and night, throughout the year. The system will be taken from a smaller volume of material resulting
shall be capable of restoring changes of temperature in the in a smaller bulk sample and less sample reduction.
locality of the test, e.g. due to opening and closing of Nevertheless, the same general principles apply in that the
doors, to comply with these limits within a period not test portion on which the test is carried out should be
exceeding 10 min. representative of the original volume of material taken
as the spot sample.
4.4.2 Temperature records Daily readings of maximum
and minimum air temperatures in testing areas shall be
5.2 Apparatus
recorded,
5.2.1 A small scoop (see figure 2) to hold a volume of
about 0.5 L, i.e. about 750 g of material of normal density,
5 Sampling for sampling fine-grained materials.
5.2.2 A medium scoop (see figure 2) to hold a volume of
NOTE. This clause describes the methods for obtaining samples of
about 1 L, i.e. about 1.5 kg of material of normal density,
material, both in an unstabilized condition, and in a stabilized
condition, of the quantity required for testing in accordance with for sampling medium-grained materials.
the test procedures described in this British Standard. For recom-
mendatiom for sampling see appendix A.
5.2.3 A large scoop (see figure 2) to hold a volume of
about 2 L, i.e. about 3 kg of material of normal density,
A hierachy of sampling terms is used; these are defined in Clause 2. for sampling coarse-grained materials.

mm
125
125
125 φ

Figure 2. Sampling scoops

 BS1924 : Part 1 : 1990

5.2.4 Containers, clean and non-absorbent, such as NOTE 3. Mechanical samplers, manually or automatically operated,
buckets, for collecting increments of a sample. used for sampling from moving streams may be taken as being in
accordance with this standard provided that each complete opera-
5.2.5 Containers with airtight lids, or impervious bags tion of the sampler produces an increment of at least 2 L of coarse-
grained material. 1 L of medium-gained material or 0.5 L of
capable of being sealed, e.g. bags made of plastics at least fine-grained material. When sampling from conveyor belts,
100 mm thick, for storing samples of various sizes up to the conveyor should be stopped at the appropriate time and all
100 kg in mass. the material taken from a fixed length of conveyor.

5.2.6 Materials for sealing and marking the containers, Caution. For reasons of personal safety samples should
e.g. string, labels, adhesive tape etc. under no circumstances ever be taken from a moving
conveyor.
5.2.7 A sample divider, appropriate to the grading of the For all methods of sampling, combine all the increments
material to be handled. and either despatch the bulk sample or reduce it to a
NOTE. Alternatively, a flat shovel and a clean flat and hard surface, smaller representative sample, acceptable to the tester,
e.g. a metal tray, may be used for quartering. by the procedure described in 5.4 and then despatch to
For sampling in special circumstances other apparatus may be the laboratory as the laboratory sample.
needed, e.g. shovels, spades, picks, etc. may be needed to reach
the material to be sampled. On completion of the sampling process, always make a
visual check of the relation of the sample to the material
5.3 Sampling procedure in bulk and record these details.
The quantity of material to be represented by the bulk NOTE 4. Whether the bulk is uniform or not, the sample should
sample shall be clearly defined. be seen to contain a similar range of sizes including the maximum
and minimum.
Obtain a bulk sample by collecting, in the clean containers,
NOTE 5. The procedure described in this clause is for obtaining a
a sufficient number of increments to provide the required bulk sample representative of the batch sampled. When a selected
quantity of material for all subsequent tests. The number sample is required to assess variability within the batch, one or
I of increments shall be not less than those given in table 4. more increments should be taken from defined places in the batch,
= they should not be combined but tested separately. For routine
I Take the increments from different parts of the batch in
I testing quality control, simplified procedures may be used. Fewer
= such a way as to represent the average quality. increments may prove to be satisfactory for this purpose. Where it
I
E is necessary to determine the presence and quantity of an
When more than one sample of whatever size is required
occasional contaminant, special measures may be necessary and
take each sample as a separate and independent operation. reference should be made to the appropriate Part of this standard.
When sampling from heaps of material, take the required These and other departures from the specified procedure should
be recorded on the certificate of sampling.
number of increments from the positions evenly distributed
over the whole surface of the heap. At the required spot for
5.4 Sample reduction
each increment remove as much surface material as neces-
sary to expose material at least 150 mm in from the surface 5.4.1 Genera/. It is usually necessary to reduce the mass
of the heap. Take the increment by digging the scoop into of the bulk sample to obtain a laboratory sample which is
this exposed material. in turn reduced to obtain a test portion of mass appro-
NOTE 1. Large stockpiles of materials which are badly segregated priate to the test in hand. The sample reduction shall be
present problems and in many cases it is better to wait until they done in such a way as to preserve at each stage a represen-
are stockpiled on site and ready for use. tative part of the bulk sample. The method using a sample
NOTE 2. Sampling near ground level should be done with care to divider as described in 5.4.2 is recommended but the
avoid contamination. alternative of quartering given in 5.4.3 may be more appro-
When sampling from material in motion, i.e. when it is priate for very coarse or very large quantities of material.
being loaded or unloaded, ensure that the sampling incre-
5.4.2 Using a sample divider. The width of the channels
ments are randomly distributed through the batch.
of the divider shall be appropriate to the grading of the
When sampling from a falling stream, take increments from material and in general not less than 1.5 times the size of
the whole width of the stream.

r
Table 4. Composition of bulk sample

Grouping Minimum number of sampling increments Approx. mass

of material of sample
Small scoop Medium scoop Large scoop

kg
Fine-grained 20 - - 12.5
Medium-grained 40 20 - 25
Coarse-grained - 40 20 50

9
BS 1924 : Part 1 : 1990

the largest particle. If the material is wet it shall be dried (d) description of the batch;
to a condition in which it will flow freely through the (e) any other information likely to be helpful to the
sample divider. tester;
Thoroughly mix the sample and then pass it through the (f) name and signature of the sampler.
sample divider. Retain one portion; pass it through again
and repeat the process as often as necessary to reduce the
original sample to the required mass. 6 Preparation of samples for testing
5.4.3 Quartering. Thoroughly mix the sample by heaping
NOTE. The methods to be used for prepering samples (obtained as
it on to a clean, flat and hard surface to form a cone,
described in 5.3) for test are described under each test pmcedure.
and turning this over with the shovel to form a new cone, This clause deals only with the preparation of samples for testing
the operation being carried out three times. Form each materials mixed with cement or lime in the laboratory in order
conical heap by depositing each shovelful of the material to establish the properties of stabilized material prior to its being
on the apex of the cone so that the portions which slide used in practice.
down the sides are distributed as evenly as possible, and so
that the centre of the cone is not displaced. 6.1 Apparatus
Flatten the third cone by repeated vertical insertion of the 6.1.1 Metal trays, non-corrodible of sizes ranging
shovel across the apex of the cone, lifting the shovel clear from 0.05 m² to 1 m².
of the material after each insertion. Quarter the flattened
heap, which shall be uniform in thickness and diameter, 6.1.2 Test sieves, as follows: 37.5 mm, 20 mm, 10 mm,
until the required mass of sample is obtained 5 mm, 2 mm.

5.4.4 Sample reduction to provide multiple samples When 6.1.3 A means of breaking down large aggregations,
two or more laboratory samples are required from a bulk e.g. a 150 mm cast-iron mortar and/or a 80 mm porcelain
sample first reduce the bulk sample by the procedure mortar, each with a suitable pestle.
described in 5.42 or 5.43. Recombine all the excess bulk 6.1.4 A rubber-ended pestle.
sample rejected at the individual division stages,
mix thoroughly and reduce again to provide a second 6.1.5 Balances, capable of weighing to 10 kg and 25 kg
laboratory sample. Repeat as necessary to provide the readable to 1 g and 5 g respectively.
required number of laboratory samples. 6.1.6 A temperature-controlled oven, capable of maintain-
NOTE. This procedure should also be used to provide replicate test ing a temperature of 45 ± 5 ºC and of 105 ± 5 ºC.
portions from a labora tory sample.
NOTE. It will often be found to be convenient to hew one about
0.2 m³ to 0.3 m³ capacity. Microwave ovens mey be used for
5.5 Despatch of samples drying provided care is taken to ensure that the temperature of the
NOTE, These requirements refer primarily to samples which are material does not rise above 105 ± 5 º C (see also note to 1.3.5 of
being despetched to a laboratory remote from the site where the BS 1924 : Part 2 : 1990).
bulk sample was obtained. For site laboratories a simplified
procedure may be sufficient. 6.1.7 Mechanical mixers, of suitable capacities or suitable
tools for hand mixing, e.g. a spatula, a trowel and a shovel.
5.5.1 Packing samples The samples shall be transferred
completely to containers (see 5.25) which shall then be 6.1.8 Graduated measuring cylinders of 100 mL and 1 L
sealed for despatch. When necessary the bags shall be capacity.
protected against damage in transit by casing in suitable
6.1.9 Apparatus for the determination of moisture content
containers.
in accordance with 1.3 of BS 1924 : Part 2 : 1990.
5.5.2 Information to be sent with the samples Each pack-
age shall contain a card, suitably protected from damage 6.2 Initial preparation of unstabilized materials
by moisture and abrasion, giving the name and address 6.2.1 The masses of the test portions required for the test
of the sender and his description of the material.
procedures shall be as specified under the respective test
When several samples are taken from a single source, procedures. To obtain the mass of the laboratory sample
each individual sample shall be separately identified. that is needed for any particular test, multiply the mass of
the test portion by the maximum number of tests envisaged.
5.6 Certificate of sampling (See note to 5.5.)
6.2.2 Spread out the test portion of the unstabilized
Each sample, or group of samples from a single source,
material obtained as described in 5.3 and 5.4 in a suitable
shall be accompanied by a certificate from the person
size of metal tray, place in the oven and dry at 105 ± 5 ºC
responsible for taking the sample, certifying that sampling
until the material is in a condition where any aggregations
was carried out in accordance with BS 1924. The certificate
may be readily broken down by the procedure given
shall include as much as is appropriate of the following
in 6.2.3.
information:
NOTE. The material does not have to be completely dry et this
(a) the date, time, place and method of sampling; stage. If it is suspected that oven-drying will alter its properties if
(b) the name and location of source; should be allowed to dry in air until it reaches the required
condition.
Ic) sample identification mark (or marks);
10
 BS 1924 : Part 1 : 1990

6.2.3 Break down any aggregations of particles using a 6.3.3 Mixing with water and lime. Add water and lime to
method that is not more liable to break down individual the material in the same manner as described for cement
particles than is the method of mixing envisaged. in 63.2. After mixing allow the material to stand for
NOTE. In general the use of a hand-roller or the gentle use of a 24 to 48 hours before proceding further and then mix for
normal pestle and mortar will be acceptable but in some cases an additional 5 min.
the use of a rubber-ended pestle with the mortar may be needed.
NOTE. The ‘curing’ period is to allow initial reactions between
6.2.4 Dry the material at 105 ± 5 ºC (see note 1) to the lime and the clay and/or water to occur. This is particularly
important if quicklime is being used as the stabilizer. In this case
constant weight and allow to cool to room temperature due allowance needs to be made for the loss of water caused by
(see note 2). Proceed to the next stage as soon as possible the hydration of the quicklime and evaporation of water caused
after cooling. by the heat of hydration.
NOTE 1. Oven-drying has been specified because it is more
convenient than air-drying and the majority of materials used in
cement and lime stabilization are unlikely to be affected by heating 7 Tests on materials before stabilization
at 105 ºC. However,some materials may change their properties
when dried at this temperature and if in doubt the test portion
NOTE. This clause contains an outline of the test procedures to be
should be air-dried and its air-dry moisture content determined.
used to determine those properties which are often identified in
The amount of water present should then be allowed for when
stabilization work and which are carried out on the material before
adding water to bring the test portion to the required moisture
any stabiliser is added. The full test procedures are either fully
content. Certain tropical soils are even affected by air-drying described in other standards or in BS 1924 : Part 2. This clause
and should be used in their natural state. describes only the applicability of the test procedures to cement
In the United Kingdom, samples may be air-dried by leaving them and lime-stabilized materials.
spread out on trays in the laboratory with free access to air for
3 to 4 days. Some materials without large particles may be used
7.1 Determination of moisture content
in their natural state for certain tests instead of being dried.
NOTE 2. Ideally the material should be dried to constant mass and The moisture content of the unstabilized material shall be
allowed to cool in a desiccator. In practice, except for small masses determined in accordance with BS 1924 : Part 2.
of fine-grained materials, this is impracticable because of the mass
of the material and the size of the tray. Most coarse-grained and 7.2 Determination of particle-size distribution
medium-grained materials will be dry after 16 h at 105 ºC and will
not absorb any significant amounts of water from the atmosphere The particle-size distribution of the material shall be
whilst cooling. determined as described in the following standards:
(a) fine and medium-grained naturally occurring
6.3 Blending materials with water and stabilizer
materials: BS 1377 : Part 2;
6.3.1 Mixing two or more unstabilized materials Where a (b) medium and [Link] naturally occurring
blend of two or more materials is to be stabilized, mix the materials and slags: BS 812 : Part 103;
blend before proceeding with the addition of cement or
(c) waste materials and industrial by-products:
lime. Blend the materials by mixing appropriate masses
BS 6543.
(with due allowance for moisture content) either in the
mechanical mixer or by hand using a spatula or trowel. NOTE 1. The methods given apply only to the material in the
unstabilized condition. They are not applicable to stabilized
Once mixed treat the blend as if it were a single material materials, even if they are freshly mixed, because the allowances
and follow the instructions for the addition of water and for the moisture content and stabilizer content which have to be
cement or lime given in 6.3.2 and 6.3.3 respectively. applied can lead to large errors.
NOTE 2. The methods given in these standards are broadly similar
6.3.2 Mixing with water and cement. Place a known mass and for most materials will give results that are not significantly
of the test portion of the material in the mechanical mixer different.
or, if it is to be hand mixed, on a flat dry surface. Add the
required volume of water, less an amount equal to 3 % of 7.3 Determination of plasticity properties
the mass of dried material, and mix thoroughly to bring
the material to a uniform consistency. Take care to 7.3.1 Determination of liquid limit. The liquid limit shall
minimise the loss of water by evaporation. If the material be determined in accordance with BS 1924 : Part 2.
is of a cohesive or absorbent nature place the moist material 7.3.2 Determination of plastic limit. The plastic limit
in an airtight container for at least 24 h before adding the shall be determined in accordance with BS 1924 : Part 2.
cement. With all other materials proceed at once with the
addition of the cement. 7.4 Determination of ten percent fines value (TFV)
Add the required mass of cement to the material and mix NOTE. The tan percent fines value gives a measure of the mechanical
to a uniform condition either by mixing in a mechanical strength of the individual particles of material end the test can be
mixer or by hand for 2 min. Add the remainder of the carried out only on medium and coarse-grained materials. It is used
in specifications of stabilized materials to ascertain whether the
water and continue mixing for a further 8 min.
material itself loses strength on being soaked in water.
Start testing immediately after the material is removed
When required the test shall be carried out in accordance
from the mixer. All testing or preparation of specimens of
with BS 812 : Part 111.
materials stabilized with cement shall be completed within
2 h of the addition of the cement and any stabilized
material remaining after that shall be discarded.

11
BS 1924 : Part 1 : 1990

7.5 Determination of suplhate content 7.7 Determination of total organic content

NOTE. Sulphates present in materials stabilized with cement or NOTE 1. Determination of the total organic content gives only a
lime may affect the long-term durability of the cement or lime- poor indication of the presence of deleterious organic compounds
stabilized material. The effect on the durability may be assessed by which can interfere with the hydration processes of cement and
the test described in BS 1924 : Part 2 for determining the effect of lime-stabilized materials. This is because it is the type of organic
immersion in water on the compressive strength of stabilized compound present rather than the total amount of organic matter
materials. However, some specifications limit the amount of which is the crucial factor. Nevertheless, some specifications require
sulphates that are allowed to be present in the material to be an upper limit for the total organic content.
stabilized. In the case of materials to be stabilizad with cement When required the total organic content shall be determined
and/or lime these limits are generally in terms of the acid-soluble
in accordance with BS 1377 : Part 3. This method, which is
content as it is the total sulphate content rather than the water-
soluble sulphate content which is important. applicable only to natural soils, shall not be used to
determine the organic contents of other materials.
When required the sulphate content of the material shall
be measured by the appropriate methods given in the NOTE 2. The previous edition of BS 1924 included a method for
detecting the presence of organic matter able to interfere with the
following standards: hydration of Portland cements. Experience has shown that, with the
(a) for soils: BS 1377 : Part 3; higher alkali contents of moat present-day cements compared to
the cements in use when the test wes developed in 1960, it is almost
(b) for aggregates: BS 812 : Part 118; impossible to find a cement that is suitable for the test. The test
(c) for slags: BS 1047; has therefore been omitted from this edition and no suitable alter-
native is available. A calorimetric test based on the extraction of
(d) for pulverized fuel ash : BS 3892 : Part 1. the organic matter with sodium hydroxide is widely used to deter-
mine the presence of deleterious organic matter in concreting
7.6 Determination of chloride content aggregates; this test is based on the assumption that only harmful
organic materials will impart a dark coloration to the sodium
When required the chloride content shall be measured by hydroxide. This resumption is not wlid for the majority of materials
the appropriate methods given in the following standards: covered by this standard and the test should not be used.
(a) for soils: BS 1377 : Part 3;
(b) for slags and aggregates: BS 812 : Part 117.

12
 BS 1924 : Part 1 : 1990

Appendix

Appendix A. Recommendations for sampling

Sampling will vary widely according to the material being state the maximum quantity that a bulk sample should
sampled, site conditions, the facilities available, the size represent.
of the sample required and its purpose. Nevertheless (c) Materials often segregate by size; ideally, they
certain general principles should be followed. should be sampled from large quantities during loading
It is important to remember that in the case of materials or unloading, but this is often impracticable.
stabilized with cement, hydration of the cement begins The general principles of BS 5309 : Part 1 and Part 4
as soon as it comes into contact with water and the should be followed in drawing up a sampling programme.
properties of cement-bound materials are continually The method set out in clause 5 of BS 5309 : Part 4 : 1976
changing as hydration proceeds. All operations of sampling should be used as the basis for tests for compliance with
and subsequent testing should therefore be conducted specifications for the materials covered by this standard.
with the utmost speed and the aim should be to complete
Fine, powdered materials such pulverized fuel ash should
the operations within 2 h from the time that the cement
be sampled in accordance with BS 3892 using procedures
was added to the material.
appropriate to the type of delivery, to produce a laboratory
The hardening process in materials mixed with lime takes sample having a mass of at least 7 kg. The definitions of
place at a much slower rate so that the time factor is less the several stages in the production of the test portions are
critical. However, it is important to recognize that the given in 2.9 to 2.18.
properties of a lime-stabilized material do change with
In some cases the bulk sample is too large to send for
time; the elapsed time between mixing the lime and testing
testing and has to be reduced; otherwise it becomes the
should therefore always be recorded and stated.
laboratory sample. At the laboratory, the laboratory
All the stages of sampling leading to the production of sample is reduced in size to the mass of test portions
proper test portions require skill and care. Problems of required. A particular test method may then require several
several kinds arise, among which are the following. specimens to be made from a test portion. If adequate
(a) Sampling may expose the operator to difficulty facilities exist at the point of taking the bulk sample,
and possible danger. Due consideration should be given all necessary reduction to the stage of producing the test
to the safety of the operator at all times. Sampling portions may be done before despatch to the laboratory.
within the body of a vehicle or under chutes poses If several kinds of tests are to be done, an intermediate
particular difficulties. stage of reduction is necessary. In other cases, the test
(b) Often it is not easy to discern a batch, and thus portion is reduced directly from the laboratory sample.
specifications that rely on this British Standard should It is again emphasized that care has to be taken to ensure
that the test portions are representative of the bulk sample.

Publications referred to
BS 240 Method for Brinell hardness test and for verification of Brinell hardness testing machines
BS 410 Specification for test sieves
BS 593 Specification for laboratory thermometers
BS 812 Testing aggregates
Part 103 Method for determination of particle size distribution
Part 111 Methods for determination of ten percent fines value (TFV)
Part 117 Method for determination of water-soluble chloride salts
Part 118 Methods for determination of sulphate content
BS 870 Specification for external micrometers
BS 891 Methods for hardness test (Rockwell method) and for wrification of hardness testing machines (Rockwell method)
BS 1047 Specification for air-cooled blastfurnace slag aggregate for use in construction
BS 1377 Methods of test for soils for civil enginearing purposes
Part 2 Classification tests
Part 3 Chemical and electro-chemical tests
BS 1610 Materials testing machines and force verification equipment
Part 2 Specification for the grading of equipment used for the verification of the forces applied by materials testing
machines
0s 1797 Schedule for tables for use in the calibration of volumetric glassware
BS 1924 Stabilized materials for civil engineering purposes
Part 2 Methods of test for cement-stabilized and lime-stabilized materials
BS 3892 Pulverized-fuel ash
Part 1 Specification for pulwrized-fuel ash for use as a cementitious component in structural concrete
BS 3978 Specification for water for l&oratory use
BS4311 Specification for metric gauge blocks
BS 5309 Methods for sampling chemical products
Part 1 Introduction and general principles
Part 4 Sampling of solids
BS 5781 Measurement and calibration systems
BS 5898 Specification for principles of design and construction of volumetric glassware for laboratory use
BS 6543 Guide to industrial by-products and waste materials in building and civil engineering

13
 BS 1924 : Part 1 : 1990
This British Standard, having been prepared under the direction of reproduced in any form without the prior permission in writing of BSI.
the Road Engineering Standards Policy Committee, was published This does not preclude the free use, in the course of implementing the
under the authority of the Board of BSI and comes into effect on standard, of necessary details such as symbols and size, type or grade
31 October 1990 designations. Enquiries should be addressed to the Publications
© British Standards Institution, 1996 Manager, BSI, Linford Wood, Milton Keynes MK14 6LE. The number
for telephone enquires is 0908 220022 and for telex 825777.
First published as BS 1924 June 1953
Second edition February 1957 Contract requirements. A British Standard does not purport to include
Third edition December 1967 all the necessary provisions of a contract. Users of British Standards
Fourth edition April 1975 are responsible for their correct application.
Fifth edition published as BS 1924 : Part 1 October 1990
ISBN 0 580 18497 8 Revision of British Standards. British Standards are revised. when
The following BSI references relate to the work on this standard: necessary, by the issue either of amendments or of revised editions.
Committee reference RDB/9 Draft for comment 88/14799 DC It is important that users of British Standards should ascertain that
they are in possession of the latest amendments or editions.

British Standards Institution. Incorporated by Royal Charter, BSI is the Automatic updating service. BSI provides an economic, individual
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The preparation of this British Standard was entrusted by the Federation of Civil Engineering Contractors
Road Engineering Standards Policy Committee (RDB/-) to Institution of Civil Engineers
Technical Committee RDB/9, upon which the following bodies Institution of Highways and Transportation
were represented: Institution of Structural Engineers
British Aggregate Construction Materials Industries Rothamsted Experimental Station
British Cement Association Society of Chemical Industry
British Civil Engineering Test Equipment Manufacturers’
Association The following bodies were also represented in the drafting of the
British Coal Corporation standard, through subcommittees and panels:
County Surveyors’ Society Association of Consulting Engineers
Department of the Environment (Property Services Agency) Refined Bitumen Association Ltd.
Department of the Environment (Building Research Establishment Co-opted members
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