Accurate aggregate testing is the foundation of quality concrete, asphalt, and base materials. Mix design performance depends heavily on the particle-size distribution of aggregates, and Construction Materials Testing (CMT) laboratories rely on ASTM C136 / C136M every day to measure and verify gradation.
However, traditional sieve analysis workflows are often slow and error-prone. Manual weighing, cumulative calculations, spreadsheets, and handwritten notes introduce inefficiencies and increase the risk of mistakes.
Aldoa eliminates this friction with a standardized ASTM C136 digital workflow that automates cumulative calculations, percent passing, and report generation. Whether performed in the lab or in the field, technicians complete tests faster, more consistently, and with fewer errors.
This guide explains what ASTM C136 measures, walks through the step-by-step procedure, highlights common testing challenges, and shows how Aldoa modernizes the entire process for CMT labs.
Key Takeaways
ASTM C136 / C136M is the standard test method used to determine the particle-size distribution, or gradation, of aggregates. The test identifies the proportion of different particle sizes within a sample of fine or coarse aggregate.
In simple terms, it measures how much of a material consists of large stones, medium gravel, sand, and fine particles.
This test is critical for:
Results from ASTM C136 are typically compared against ASTM C33 (Standard Specification for Concrete Aggregates) or applicable state DOT specifications to verify compliance.
Aggregate gradation influences nearly every property of construction materials:
By understanding how aggregates are distributed, CMT labs can validate supplier quality, troubleshoot mix issues, and ensure every project meets design standards.
Common sieve series include:
Coarse Aggregate: 5 in., 3½ in., 2 in., 1 in., ¾ in., ½ in., ⅜ in.
Fine Aggregate: No. 4 through No. 200
The sieve analysis process separates aggregate particles by size, using a series of stacked sieves with progressively smaller openings.
These values are typically displayed in a table format:
| Sieve Size | Weight Retained (g) | % Retained | Cumulative % Retained | % Passing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ¾ in. | 50 | 5 | 5 | 95 |
| ½ in. | 120 | 12 | 17 | 83 |
| ⅜ in. | 180 | 18 | 35 | 65 |
| No. 4 | 220 | 22 | 57 | 43 |
| No. 8 | 260 | 26 | 83 | 17 |
| Pan | 170 | 17 | 100 | 0 |
(Values shown for illustration only.)
The final report includes:
The gradation curve plotted from the data helps visualize particle-size distribution.
CMT labs compare these results to specified limits (often ASTM C33 or state DOT requirements) to ensure compliance.
Even small procedural errors can skew results. Common issues include:
| Common Error | Impact | Best Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Incomplete drying | Overestimation of retained weight | Dry to constant mass |
| Overloading sieves | Inconsistent separation | Use multiple sieve stacks for large samples |
| Incorrect sieve stacking | Invalid gradation | Verify order before testing |
| Inadequate shaking time | Non-representative distribution | Use consistent mechanical shaking duration |
| Residue loss during transfer | Skews percentages | Brush and transfer material carefully |
Maintaining proper calibration and cleanliness of sieves is also essential for repeatable results.
Traditional sieve analysis workflows rely heavily on manual calculations and spreadsheets. Aldoa replaces these steps with a standardized digital process.
| Process Step | Manual Testing Workflow | Aldoa Workflow |
|---|---|---|
| Data Entry | Recorded by hand or spreadsheet | Enter directly into pre-built ASTM C136 form |
| Cumulative Calculations | Performed manually or via Excel formulas | Auto-calculated instantly |
| Error Checking | Requires double verification | Automated data validation |
| Data Sync | Field and lab data kept separate | Instantly synced across teams |
| Report Generation | Manual formatting in Word/PDF | One-click ASTM-compliant report |
| Turnaround Time | Hours to compile and verify | Minutes from start to report |
CMT labs using Aldoa can reduce reporting time by more than 80 percent while improving accuracy and consistency.
Aldoa’s form includes all standard sieve sizes and calculation fields—so technicians simply input the retained weight for each sieve. The platform automatically computes cumulative weights, percentages retained, and percentages passing.
Once data is collected, Aldoa instantly generates ASTM C136 reports formatted for project documentation or client submission—complete with tables, summaries, and gradation visuals.
Data syncs automatically from field to lab and office. Whether you’re weighing samples or approving results, everyone sees the same information in real time.
Aldoa’s form prevents calculation errors, missing entries, and inconsistent reporting. Each test is time-stamped and stored securely for future reference or audit.
CMT labs often perform ASTM C136 alongside other aggregate or concrete tests (e.g., ASTM C127 – Specific Gravity, ASTM C128 – Absorption of Fine Aggregate). Aldoa allows users to link these results together for full mix-design traceability.
While ASTM C136 applies to both geotechnical and materials testing workflows, it’s most commonly performed by Construction Materials Testing (CMT) laboratories.
CMT labs use it to:
Geotechnical engineers occasionally perform sieve analysis for site characterization, particularly when evaluating drainage materials or aggregate bases—but they more often rely on ASTM D6913 or D422 for soil particle-size distribution.
By digitizing ASTM C136 testing, labs can increase productivity, improve client satisfaction, and focus on analysis rather than admin work.
ASTM C136 determines the particle-size distribution of aggregates used in concrete, asphalt, and base materials. It ensures the mix contains the right balance of fine and coarse particles for strength and durability.
ASTM C136 is designed for aggregates (gravel, crushed stone, sand), while ASTM D6913 is used for soils in geotechnical testing.
You’ll need a balance, standard sieves, sieve shaker, drying oven, and a pan and cover for collection.
Software like Aldoa automates calculations, syncs field and lab data, and generates ready-to-send ASTM-compliant reports—saving labs hours of manual work.
Yes. Aggregate gradation determined by ASTM C136 is a fundamental part of concrete and asphalt mix design validation.
ASTM C136 sieve analysis is one of the most important tests in construction materials quality control. Accurate gradation data ensures reliable concrete, asphalt, and aggregate performance. However, manual workflows slow labs down and increase the risk of errors.
Aldoa modernizes ASTM C136 testing with digital forms, automated calculations, and one-click reporting, dramatically reducing turnaround time and improving data quality.
If your CMT lab wants faster results, cleaner data, and consistent ASTM C136 reporting, learn more and schedule a demo at www.aldoa.com/demo.