Sand Sieve Analysis (IS 383:2016)
| # | Sieve Size | Weight retained (g) | Cumulative weight retained (g) | % retained | Cumulative % retained | % passing | IS limit (passing) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 10 mm | ||||||
| 2 | 4.75 mm | ||||||
| 3 | 2.36 mm | ||||||
| 4 | 1.18 mm | ||||||
| 5 | 600 Micron | ||||||
| 6 | 300 Micron | ||||||
| 7 | 150 Micron | ||||||
| 8 | 75 Micron | — |
About Sand Gradation (IS 383:2016)
IS 383:2016 classifies fine aggregates into four zones (I–IV) based on percentage passing through standard sieves. The selected zone, the sand type, and the fineness modulus (FM) together guide suitability for different concrete and plaster mixes.
Zone I — Coarse
Use: RCC, foundations, paver blocks, higher strength concrete. Helps reduce water demand and shrinkage.
Zone II — Medium
Use: General RCC, masonry, typical structural concrete. Balanced workability and strength.
Zone III — Medium–Fine
Use: Plastering, finishing, thin sections. Smooth finish but may need more cement.
Zone IV — Fine
Use: Very thin plaster, tiling beds, delicate finishes. Watch segregation and cement demand.
Sand Types & Silt Limits
- Natural sand: allowable silt ≤ 3%
- Crushed / M-sand: allowable silt ≤ 15%
- Mixed sand: allowable silt ≤ 12%
Fineness Modulus (FM)
FM is the sum of cumulative percent retained on standard sieves (from 4.75 mm to 150 µm) divided by 100. Typical categories: Very Fine 1.6–2.0, Fine 2.0–2.4, Medium 2.4–2.8, Coarse 2.8–3.5.
Quick Test Procedure
- Dry and weigh the sample.
- Sieve through the standard set (10 mm → 75 µm).
- Record weight retained on each sieve (whole grams).
- Compute % retained, cumulative %, and % passing.
- Compare with the IS 383 zone limits and compute FM.
IS 383:2016 — Fine Aggregate Grading (Percentage Passing)
| Sieve | Zone I | Zone II | Zone III | Zone IV |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4.75 mm | 90–100 | 90–100 | 90–100 | 90–100 |
| 2.36 mm | 60–95 | 75–100 | 85–100 | 95–100 |
| 1.18 mm | 30–70 | 55–90 | 75–100 | 90–100 |
| 600 µm | 15–34 | 35–59 | 60–79 | 80–100 |
| 300 µm | 5–20 | 8–30 | 12–40 | 15–50 |
| 150 µm | 0–10 | 0–3 | 0–10 | 0–15 |
Note: 10 mm and 75 µm are included for completeness in testing; FM uses 4.75 mm to 150 µm cumulative % retained.
