CMT1501 Module Overview

CMT1501/101/3/2019
Tutorial Letter 101/3/2019
Construction Materials I (Theory)

CMT1501
Semesters 1 and 2
Civil & Chemical Engineering Department
This tutorial letter contains important information

about your module.
BARCODE
CONTENTS
Page
1 INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................... 3
1.1 Getting started … .......................................................................................................................... 3
2 PURPOSE AND OUTCOMES ...................................................................................................... 3
2.1 Purpose ........................................................................................................................................ 3
2.2 Outcomes ..................................................................................................................................... 3
2.3 ECSA GRADUATE ATTRIBUTE .................................................................................................. 4
3 LECTURER(S) AND CONTACT DETAILS................................................................................... 4
3.1 Lecturer(s) .................................................................................................................................... 4
3.2 Department ................................................................................................................................... 4
3.3 University ...................................................................................................................................... 4
4 RESOURCES ............................................................................................................................... 4
4.1 Prescribed book(s) ........................................................................................................................ 4
4.2 Recommended book(s) ................................................................................................................. 5
4.3 Joining myUnisa ........................................................................................................................... 5
4.4 Electronic reserves (e-reserves) ................................................................................................... 6
4.5 Library services and resources ..................................................................................................... 6
5 STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES ................................................................................................ 6
6 STUDY PLAN ............................................................................................................................... 6
7 PRACTICAL WORK ..................................................................................................................... 6
8 ASSESSMENT ............................................................................................................................. 7
8.1 Assessment criteria....................................................................................................................... 7
8.2 Assessment plan .......................................................................................................................... 7
8.3 Assignment numbers .................................................................................................................... 7
8.3.1 General assignment numbers ....................................................................................................... 7
8.3.2 Unique assignment numbers ........................................................................................................ 7
8.4 Assignment due dates .................................................................................................................. 8
8.5 Submission of assignments .......................................................................................................... 8
8.5.1 All assignments for this module must be submitted online ............................................................ 8
8.6 The assignments .......................................................................................................................... 8
8.7 Other assessment methods ........................................................................................................ 32
8.8 The examination ......................................................................................................................... 32
9 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ........................................................................................ 32
10 SOURCES CONSULTED ........................................................................................................... 32
11 IN CLOSING ............................................................................................................................... 32
12 ADDENDUM ............................................................................................................................... 32
2
CMT1501/101/3/2019
Dear Student
1 INTRODUCTION
Dear Student
Welcome to Construction Materials I.
This is a one semester theoretical subject, which introduces the student to the principles of
construction materials, in particular the principles, methods and properties involved with soil,
concrete and bitumen.
Because this is a fully online module, you will need to use myUnisa to study and complete the
learning activities for this module. Visit the website for CMT1501 on myUnisa frequently. The
website for your module is CMT1501-2019-S1/S2.
1.1 Getting started …
Owing to the nature of this module, you can read about the module and find your study material
online. Go to the website at https://my.unisa.ac.za and log in using your student number and
password. You will see CMT1501-2019-S1/S2 in the row of modules displayed in the orange
blocks at the top of the webpage. Select the More tab if you cannot find the module you require
in the blocks displayed. Then click on the module you want to open.
We wish you much success in your studies!
2 PURPOSE AND OUTCOMES

2.1 Purpose
Students who have completed this module successfully will be able to identify and apply the
basic parameters to be considered when selecting construction materials.
2.2 Outcomes
For this module, you will have to master several outcomes:
 Specific outcome 1: Understand the properties for soil/aggregate and apply this
knowledge in practice
 Specific outcome 2: Understand the properties for concrete and apply this knowledge in
practice
 Specific outcome 3: Understand the properties for bitumen/asphalt and apply this
knowledge in practice
3
2.3 ECSA GRADUATE ATTRIBUTE
This module aims to lay a foundation for Graduate Attributes 2 and 7.
ECSA Graduate Attribute 2: Apply knowledge of mathematics, natural science and engineering
sciences to define and applied engineering procedures, processes, systems and methodologies
to solve broadly-defined engineering problems.
ECSA Graduate Attribute 7: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the impact of
engineering activity on the society, economy, industrial and physical environment, and address
issues by analysis and evaluation.
3 LECTURER(S) AND CONTACT DETAILS

3.1 Lecturer(s)
The primary lecturer for this module is Mr. R Berkers:
Department: Department of Civil and Chemical Engineering

Telephone: 011 471 3132 (Ms. T Ramorei, administrator)
Email: berkersR@tut.ac.za
3.2 Department
You can contact the Department of Civil and Chemical Engineering as follows:
Telephone number: 011 471 2048/3132
Email: ramorp@unisa.ac.za OR civil&chemical@unisa.ac.za
Find our department on the Internet at the online address:
http://www.unisa.ac.za/sites/corporate/default/Colleges/Science,-Engineering-&-
Technology/Schools,-departments-&-centre/School-of-Engineering/Department-of-Civil-and-
Chemical-Engineering
3.3 University
To contact the University, follow the instructions in the brochure Study @ Unisa. Remember to
have your student number available whenever you contact the University.
Whenever you contact a lecturer, please include your student number to enable the lecturer to
help you more effectively.
4 RESOURCES
4.1 Prescribed book(s)
“Construction materials for civil engineering” by Errol van Amsterdam (Second Edition)
Published by Juta and Company (Pty) Ltd
ISBN: 9780702197574
4
CMT1501/101/3/2019
4.2 Recommended book(s)

The primary reading material for this subject will be placed on MyUNISA under “Notes for
Construction Materials I”. Work through this meticulously as the exam is based on the
information contained in these notes.
“Construction materials for civil engineering” by Errol van Amsterdam (Second Edition)
Published by Juta and Company (Pty) Ltd.
Recommended books can be requested online, via the Library catalogue.
4.3 Joining myUnisa
The myUnisa learning management system is the University's online campus which will help
you to communicate with your lecturers, with other students and with the administrative
departments at Unisa.
To go to the myUnisa website directly, go to https://my.unisa.ac.za. Click on the “Claim UNISA
Login” button on the top of the screen on the myUnisa website. You will then be prompted to
give your student number in order to claim your initial myUnisa details, as well as your myLife
email login details.
For more information on myUnisa, consult the brochure Study @ Unisa, which you received
with your study material: www.unisa.ac.za/brochures/studies
Myunisa tools
The main tool that we will use is the Lessons tool. This tool will provide the content of and the
assessments for your module. At times you will be directed to join discussions with fellow
students and complete activities and assessments before you can continue with the module.
It is very important that you log in to myUnisa regularly. We recommend that you log in at least
once a week to do the following:
 Check for new announcements. You can also set your myLife email account so that you
receive the announcement emails on your cell phone.
 Do the Discussion Forum activities. When you do the activities for each learning unit, we
want you to share your answers with the other students in your group. You can read the
instructions and even prepare your answers offline, but you will need to go online to post
your messages.
 Do other online activities. For some of the learning unit activities you might need to post
something on the Blog tool, take a quiz or complete a survey under the Self-Assessment
tool. Do not skip these activities because they will help you complete the assignments and
the activities for the module.
We hope that by giving you extra ways to study the material and practise all of the activities, you
will succeed in the online module. To get the most out of the online module you must go online
regularly to complete the activities and assignments on time.
5
4.4 Electronic reserves (e-reserves)
E-reserves can be downloaded from the Library catalogue. More information is available at:
http://libguides.unisa.ac.za/request/request
4.5 Library services and resources

The Unisa Library offers a range of information services and resources:
 for detailed Library information go to

http://www.unisa.ac.za/sites/corporate/default/Library
 for research support and services (e.g. personal librarians and literature
search services) go to
http://www.unisa.ac.za/sites/corporate/default/Library/Library-
services/Research-support
The Library has created numerous Library guides:

http://libguides.unisa.ac.za
Recommended guides:
 Request and download recommended material:

http://libguides.unisa.ac.za/request/request
 Postgraduate information services:
http://libguides.unisa.ac.za/request/postgrad
 Finding and using library resources and tools:
http://libguides.unisa.ac.za/Research_skills
 Frequently asked questions about the Library:
http://libguides.unisa.ac.za/ask
 Services to students living with disabilities:
http://libguides.unisa.ac.za/disability
5 STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

The Study @ Unisa brochure is available on myUnisa: www.unisa.ac.za/brochures/studies
This brochure has all the tips and information you need to succeed at distance learning and,
specifically, at Unisa.
6 STUDY PLAN
 Studying fully online modules differs completely from studying some of your other modules
at Unisa.
 All your study material and learning activities for online modules are designed to be
delivered online on myUnisa.
7 PRACTICAL WORK
The Practical aspect of this module is covered in the CMTPRA1 Module
6
CMT1501/101/3/2019
8 ASSESSMENT
8.1 Assessment criteria
The following is a breakdown of the formal assessment activities as they become due during the
semester:
 Assignment 1: 20% towards final mark (i.e. 50% of your predicate)

 Examination (Closed book): 60% towards final mark
The assignments are provided in section 8 this tutorial letter. Assignments will only be accepted
online, do not post the assignments to UNISA.
8.2 Assessment plan

The following is a breakdown of the formal assessment activities as they become due during the
semester:

 Examination (Closed book): 60% towards final mark
The assignments are provided in section 8 this tutorial letter. Assignments will only be accepted
online, do not post the assignments to UNISA.
8.3 Assignment numbers

8.3.1 General assignment numbers
8.3.2 Unique assignment numbers
First Semester Second Semester
Assignment 1 873459 Assignment 1 832417
Assignment 2 766526 Assignment 2 868161
7
8.4 Assignment due dates
First Semester
Assignment 1 (Compulsory) online submission only 22 March 2019
Assignment 2 (Compulsory) online submission only 12 April 2019
Second Semester
Assignment 1 (Compulsory) online submission only 16 August 2019
Assignment 2 (Compulsory) online submission only 20 September 2019
Note: The cut-off dates given here are the official, last dates on which a given assignment may
be submitted online. Students must adhere to these dates only.
It is recommended that you try to submit the assignments online a few days before the final due
date, as the servers will be very busy on the due dates and it will be problematic for you to
submit on time.
8.5 Submission of assignments

8.5.1 All assignments for this module must be submitted online
 This means that you do all your activities and submit all your assignments on
myUnisa. In other words, you may NOT post your assignments to Unisa using the
South African Post Office.
 All communication between you and the University happens online. Lecturers will
communicate to you by email and sms, as well as using the Announcements, the
Discussion Forums and the Question and Answer tools. You can also use all of these ways
to ask questions and contact your lecturers.
8.6 The assignments

The following assignments (2 per semester) are assignments that need to be submitted online
by students studying the subject CMT1501 in the first and second semester of 2019.
Please remember that you are not allowed to copy the answers from another student. This will
amount to plagiarism.
When we receive two or more identical assignments, we are not able to work out who copied
from whom. We will therefore penalize both students.
If you commit plagiarism you will be penalized and given a zero marks for your assignment. This
will have a serious effect on your chances to succeed in your studies because there is a chance
that you are not allowed to write the examination for this subject.
8
CMT1501/101/3/2019
ASSIGNMENT 1, SEMESTER 1
CMT1501
The following questions must be answered as briefly as possible. Answers can be

obtained from the subject notes or in the additional notes placed on MyUNISA.
The answering document together with all other relevant documentation must be
submitted online to the Department of Civil and Chemical Engineering under the unique
number given in the tutorial letter.
Question 1
Define what a representative soil is. (2)
[Total Q1 = 2 marks]
Question 2 (additional information on MyUnisa)
2.1 Name the processes that are involved with the formation of sedimentary rock from igneous
rock. (5)
2.2 State what the difference is between magma and lava. (2)
2.3 Which type of rock is formed from lava? (3)
2.4 Name the processes which are involved in the formation of metamorphic rock from
sedimentary rock. (2)
Question 3
Soil stabilization can be divided into four main groups. Name the four groups. (4)
9
Refer to Appendix A for the AASHTO soil classification table.
Table 4-1 on below shows results of grading and Atterberg tests done on samples A, B, C, D
and E. Classify the following soils according to the AASHTO Soil Classification system.
4.1 Sample A. (2)

4.2 Sample B. (2)
4.3 Sample C. (2)
4.4 Sample D. (2)
4.5 Sample E. (2)
Table 4-1: Results of grading and Atterberg tests
Sample Sample Sample Sample Sample

A B C D E
Grading: % passing
2.00mm ( no. 10) 81 73 32 32 46
0.425mm (no. 40) 45 46 53 53 17
0.075mm (no. 200) 23 42 7 7 14
Atterberg limits: - - - - -
Liquid limit 26 49 5 5 22
Plastic limit 13 14 5 5 17
10
CMT1501/101/3/2019
Refer to Appendix B for tables and equations to be used. Use the CNCI method!!
The compressive strength of the concrete mix has to be 20 MPa after 28 days. The cement that
is going to be used is a CEM I 42.5 with a relative density of 3.14. The stone that is available is
a 19.0 mm stone with a dry compacted bulk density (CBD) of 1803 kg/m 3 and a relative density
of 2.7. A good, crusher sand with a fineness modulus of 2.3 and a relative density of 1.8 is
going to be used for the mix. The slump on site is specified as 75 mm. The concrete is going to
be hand compacted on site.
5.1 Use the information, tables and equations given to calculate the proportions of sand, stone
and water for a 1 cubic metre concrete mix. (17)
5.2 Also calculate the amounts of material needed for a mix using 1 x 50 kg bag of cement. (3)
Question 6
List 6 types of admixtures used in concrete (6)

Question 7 (additional information on MyUNISA)
Penetration grade bitumen is produced from good quality oil. This type of bitumen is used as a
base for all the other bitumen based products i.e. cutback bitumen, bitumen emulsion and
modified bitumen to name a few.
In table format supply the following:
 What four penetration grade bitumen products are available from the refineries? (4)
 How are these products produced? (4)
 Describe which of these products has the highest viscosity, i.e. is the hardest, and
which one has the lowest viscosity? (2)
11
Question 8
Bitumen Rubber (BR) is penetration grade bitumen to which about 20% of rubber crumbs is
added. The addition of the rubber crumbs can be advantageous and disadvantageous for the
bitumen.
8.1 Discuss two uses for bitumen that is modified with rubber crumbs. (2)
8.2 Discuss three disadvantages which the addition of rubber crumbs to penetration grade
bitumen has. (3)
Question 9
The manufacturing of clay bricks consists of 7 steps.

Name these 7 steps. (7)
[Total: 76 marks]
12
CMT1501/101/3/2019
APPENDIX A
AASHTO Soil Classification System
AASHTO Soil Classification System (from AASHTO M 145 or ASTM D3282)

Silt-Clay Materials (>35%
General Classification Granular Materials (35% or less passing the 0.075 mm sieve)
passing the 0.075 mm sieve)
A-1 A-2 A-7
Group Classification A-3 A-4 A-5 A-6 A-7-5/ A-
A-1-a A-1-b A-2-4 A-2-5 A-2-6 A-2-7
7-6(1)
Sieve Analysis, % passing
2.00 mm (No. 10) 50 max … … … … … … … … … …
0.425 (No. 40) 30 max 50 max 51 min … … … … … … … …
0.075 (No. 200) 15 max 25 max 10 max 35 max 35 max 35 max 35 max 36 min 36 min 36 min 36 min
Characteristics of fraction passing 0.425 mm
(No. 40)
Liquid Limit … … 40 max 41 min 40 max 41 min 40 max 41 min 40 max 41 min
Plasticity Index 6 max N.P. 10 max 10 max 11 min 11 min 10 max 10 max 11 min 11 min1
stone fragments, gravel
Usual types of significant constituent materials fine sand silty or clayey gravel and sand silty soils clayey soils
and sand
General rating as a subgrade excellent to good fair to poor
Note (1): To decide between A-7-5 or A-7-6 follow the following guideline:
When the Plasticity Index is equal to or less than the LL – 30: A-7-5 subgroup
When the Plasticity Index is greater than LL – 30: A-7-6 subgroup
13
CMT1501

The representation of the process by which rocks are formed on Earth is called the rock cycle.
Review, with a diagram (picture), how the rock cycle works.
Supply the following in your diagram:
 The three kinds of rocks. (3)

 The processes that are needed for all three kinds of rock to form. (8)
Do not copy and paste from MyUNISA!!!!

Question 2
Soil is classified according to a classification system.

Name and describe the two most commonly used classification systems for soil. (9)
14
CMT1501/101/3/2019
Question 3 (Additional information on MyUNISA)
The following results In Table 3-1 are obtained from a sieve analysis done on a sample with dry
mass of 2581 g.
The wet sieve analysis was carried out by washing 150 grams of the material passing the 0.425
mm sieve through the 0.075 mm sieve. After drying it was determined that 54 grams was
retained on the 0.075 mm sieve.
Carry the table below over to your answering book and calculate and write the % retained and
the cumulative % passing for each sieve that should be in the empty areas in the table. Also
calculate and write the mass retained, % retained and cumulative % passing for the 0.075mm
sieve in the open areas in the table.
Table 3-1: Grading results

Sieve size (mm) Mass retained % retained Cum % passing
26.5 0
19.0 657
13.2 379
9.5 356
4.75 282
2 178
0.425 134
<0.425
0.075
(9)
15
Refer to Appendix A
You are building a road from Vereeniging to Johannesburg. The material to be used is a soil with
a grey to black colour. After the material has been tested the results as stated below in table 4-1
are given to you.
Calculate the liquid limit, the plastic limit and the Plasticity Index. (19)
Table 4-1
Results of liquid limit test
Test no 1 2 3
Mass of tin container (g) 18.65 19.12 18.92
Mass of tin container with wet
32.31 40.23 47.86
soil (g)
Mass of tin container with dry
29.33 36.78 43.80
soil (g)
Number of taps (Casagrande
17 27 31
apparatus)
Results of plastic limit test
Test no 1 2 3
66.24 68.12 69.78
soil (g)
63.23 65.03 66.79
soil (g)
[Total Q4= 19 marks]
Describe 5 advantages of using precast concrete. (5)

16
CMT1501/101/3/2019
Refer to Appendix B for tables and equations to be used. Use the CNCI method
While working for R2D2 Consulting Engineers you are required to design the concrete pavement
needed for a new highway.
The following specifications for the concrete pavement are given to you:
is going to be used is a CEM I 32.5 with Dc = 3.14. The stone that is available is a 19.0 mm stone
with a dry compacted bulk density (CBD) of 1713 kg/m 3 and a relative density of 2.74. An
excellent, natural sand with a fineness modulus of 2.41and a relative density of 2.58 is going to
be used for the mix. The slump on site is specified as 75 mm. The concrete is going to be
moderately vibrated for compaction on site.
Calculate the amount of water, cement, stone and sand that is needed to make up 1 m³ of
concrete mix as specified above. (16)
The chemical components of bitumen can be divided into groups of components which, for our
purpose, have the same characteristics. As such bitumen can be divided into maltenes, which
are soluble in n-heptane (a solvent), and asphaltenes, which are insoluble in n-heptane.
The maltenes can be divided into three other groups, based on the characteristics of these
groups.
Name these four groups (SARA) and describe what the effect of each group is on bitumen. (12)
Question 8
Describe five situations where Geosynthetics are used. (5)

[Total: 90 marks]
17
APPENDIX A
Part of answer to question 4

To be given in with the answering book
Name:_______________________________________________
Student number:______________________________________
Taps v/s % water
30
25
20
% water
15
10
0
10 15 20 25 30 35
Taps
18
CMT1501/101/3/2019
APPENDIX B
Table 1: w:c ratios for certain cementitious materials:

Water:cement(w:c) ratio
Specified
strength of
CEM I 32.5 MPa CEM I 42.5 MPA CEM I 52.5 MPa
mix(28 days.
MPa)
20 0.66 0.72 0.82
25 0.61 0.67 0.77
30 0.56 0.62 0.72
35 0.53 0.57 0.67
40 0.5 0.52 0.62
Table 2: water requirement for a concrete mix where 19.0 mm aggregate is used and a 75
mm slump is specified:
Water content L/m3
Sand quality
natural crusher
Very poor 240 235
poor 225 225
average 210 215
good 195 205
excellent 180 195
Table 3: values of K for determining stone content:

Approxima K
te slump compaction Maximum size of stone. mm
range. mm 9.5 13.2 19.0 26.5 37.5
Hand
75 - 150 0.75 0.84 0.94 1.00 1.05
compaction
Moderate
25 - 100 0.80 0.80 1.00 1.06 1.10
vibration
0 - 25 Heavy vibration 1.00 1.05 1.08 1.10 1.15
Formula’s for calculating the material requirements for a concrete mix design:
water requirement inliters
 Cement content(kg/m3 of concrete) =
w : c ratio
 Mst = CBDst (K – 0.1 FM)
Mc M M
 Vols = 1000 – ( + st + w )
Dc D st Dw
19
CMT1501
Question 1
What factors should be considered during preconstruction activities? (5)
A sieve analysis is performed on a soil sample that weighs 2361 grams and you receive the
results in Table 2-1.
Table 2-1: Sieve analysis results
sieve size mass retained % retained % passing
26.5 0
19 512
13.2 491
9.5 456
4.75 254
2 356
0.425 312
<0.425
0.075
The wet sieve analysis was carried out by washing 75 grams of the material passing the 0.425
mm sieve through the 0.075 mm sieve. After drying it was determined that 26 grams was
retained on the 0.075 mm sieve.
Carry the table over to your answering book and complete this table with the following:
 The percentage retained and the cumulative percentage passing on the various sieves. (7)
 The percentage retained and cumulative passing on the 0.075 mm sieve. (2)
20
CMT1501/101/3/2019
Refer to Appendix A for the graph paper to be used for this question.
You are supervising a construction project between Harrismith and Johannesburg. You suspect
that there is a problem with a soil layer that was constructed last week. You request that
Atterburg limit tests are performed on the duplicate soil sample in the materials laboratory.
The results that you receive back for the Liquid Limit test and the Plastic Limit test are supplied in
table 3-1.
Calculate the Liquid Limit, the Plastic Limit and the Plasticity Index. (19)
Table 3-1: Test results

Results of liquid limit test
Test no 1 2 3
Mass of tin container with wet 29.13 34.57 39.91
Mass of tin soil (g)
container with dry 26.38 31.68 37.04
soil (g)
Number of taps (Casagrande) 22 29 33
apparatus) Results of plastic limit test
Test no 1 2 3
Mass of tin container with wet 70.90 72.31 74.98
Mass of tin soil (g)
container with dry 67.92 69.22 71.84
soil (g)
[Total Q3= 19 marks]
21
Refer to Appendix B for tables and equations to be used. Use the CNCI method.
You are instructed to design a concrete mix that is going to be used for concrete drains alongside
a new road. After you have done the design you do a cost estimate and calculate that you have
enough money for a concrete mix which has the following quantities of material:
Sand: 650 kg/m³

Water: 280 L/m³
Stone: 1230 kg/m³
Cement: 300 kg/m³
You have designed a concrete mix with the following specifications:
is going to be used is a CEM I 42.5 with a relative density of 3.14. The stone that is available is a
19.0 mm stone with a dry compacted bulk density (CBD) of 1685 kg/m 3 and a relative density of
2.75. A good, crusher sand with a fineness modulus of 1.85 and a relative density of 2.6 is going
to be used for the mix. The slump on site is specified as 75 mm. The concrete is going to be
compacted by moderate vibration on site.
4.1 Calculate and show the amount of water, cement, stone and sand that is needed to make
up 1 m³ of concrete mix as specified above. (16)
4.2 Will the quantities of cement, sand, stone and water available per cubic meter as stated
above be enough for the quantities of material which you calculated for the specified
concrete mix? (2)
22
CMT1501/101/3/2019
Question 5
Name six factors which affect the bond between concrete and steel. (6)
Question 6
6.1 Describe "cutback bitumen". (2)

6.2 What cutback bitumen products are available in South Africa? (4)
6.3 Which of the products given as an answer in question 6.2 has the lowest viscosity and
which of these products has the highest viscosity? (2)
6.4 Which of the products given as an answer in question 6.2 would you use to prime a
surface with? (1)
Bitumen modified with Styrene-Butadiene-Rubber (SBR) is an elastomer and homogeneous. It is

made from synthetic latex rubber. Binders modified with SBR have a low (2-5%) modifier content.
They are not the same as bitumen rubber which has a modifier content of around 20% of rubber
crumbs.
What are the 4 advantages of the use of SBR in an asphalt mix? (4)
. [Total Q7 = 4 marks]
Question 8
Name the five main greenhouse gases. (5)

[Total: 75 marks]
23
APPENDIX A: Answer sheet for Question 3
Name:
Student Number:
24
CMT1501/101/3/2019
APPENDIX B

Specified
strength of
mix(28 days.
MPa)
20 0.66 0.72 0.82
25 0.61 0.67 0.77
30 0.56 0.62 0.72
35 0.53 0.57 0.67
40 0.5 0.52 0.62
Water content L/m3
Sand quality
natural crusher
Very poor 240 235
poor 225 225
average 210 215
good 195 205
excellent 180 195

Approxima K
range. mm 9.5 13.2 19.0 26.5 37.5
Hand
75 - 150 0.75 0.84 0.94 1.00 1.05
compaction
Moderate
25 - 100 0.80 0.80 1.00 1.06 1.10
vibration
0 - 25 Heavy vibration 1.00 1.05 1.08 1.10 1.15
water requiremen t in liters
w : c ratio
Mc M M
 Vols = 1000 – ( + st + w )
Dc D st Dw
25
CMT1501

obtained in the subject's notes or in the additional notes placed on MyUNISA.
Question 1
How would you describe the subheadings into which pre-construction activities can be
structured? (5)
Molten rock is present below the earth's crust. If the pressure gets very high at a certain point
below the crust it can happen that some of this molten rock, which is called magma, erupts
through the crust. This is known as a volcano. When this magma travels through the funnel of
the volcano into the atmosphere it is called lava.
2.1 Name the rock that is formed from lava that has cooled down on the side of the volcano. (1)
2.2 What process leads to the formation of the type of rock mentioned in question 2.1 (1)
2.3 Sedimentary rock is formed from the type of rock mentioned in question 2.1. A minimum of
5 processes are needed to form sedimentary rock.
Name the 5 processes that result in the formation of sedimentary rock. (5)
26
CMT1501/101/3/2019

Refer to Appendix A.
The following table 3-1 shows results of Atterberg tests done on samples A, B, C, D and E.
Classify these soils according to the AASHTO Soil Classification system.
Table 3-1
Sample Sample Sample Sample Sample
A B C D E
Grading: % passing
2,00mm ( no. 10) 48 81 73 33 56
0,425mm (no. 40) 19 45 46 52 45
0,075mm (no. 200) 6 23 42 7 38
Atterberg limits:
Liquid limit 14 26 49 7 22
Plastic limit 5 13 14 7 13
Plasticity Index
AASHTO Classification
The results for a Plastic Limit test in Table 4.1 below were obtained in a soil laboratory:
Table 4.1: Results of Plastic Limit test

Results of Plastic Limit test
Test no 1 2 3
83.48 83.71 84.07
soil (g)
78.16 78.73 78.83
soil (g)
4.1 Determine the Plastic Limit of this soil and show your answers in a table. (8)
4.2 If the Liquid Limit is 17%, what is the Plasticity Index of this soil (Show the whole
calculation)? (2)
27
Question 5
5.1 Name three methods that can be implemented to reduce the bleeding of concrete. (3)
5.2 Name and describe the two forms of rapid setting which can occur in concrete. (6)
Refer to Appendix B for tables and equations to be used. Use the CNCI method.
You are working for a consultancy firm that has to design a concrete platform near a water hole
in the Kruger National Park. The platform will be used as a viewing point for tourists.
After you have calculated the costs of the concrete mix you observe that you will have to haul
the water for the concrete mix for a distance of 20 kilometres.
You calculate that there will be only enough money for 170 litres of water per cubic meter.
The following specifications for the concrete mix design are given to you:
is going to be used is a CEM I 32.5 with a relative density of 3.14. The aggregate that is
available is a 19.0 mm stone with a dry compacted bulk density (CBD) of 1617 kg/m 3 and a
relative density of 2.63. An excellent, natural sand with a fineness modulus of 2.25 and a
relative density of 2.49 is going to be used for the mix. The slump on site is specified as 75 mm.
The concrete is going to be hand compacted on site.
6.1 Calculate and show the amount of water, cement, stone and sand that is needed to
make up 1 m³ of concrete mix as specified above. (17)
6.2 Will the amount of 170 litres of water per cubic meter that is available of concrete mix be
enough? (2)
28
CMT1501/101/3/2019
Question 7
7.1 Name the four main stages in the manufacturing of clay and shale bricks. (4)
7.2 Name the properties against which bricks are measured. (7)
Question 8
8.1 Define “bituminous emulsion”. (2)

8.2 Name the two types of bituminous emulsion. (2)
8.3 How are these two types of bituminous emulsion produced? (6)
8.4 What is the difference between the two types of bituminous emulsion? (2)
Question 9
List the 6 properties of asphalt that can be improved when SBS is added to the binder. (6)
[Total: 89 marks]
29
APPENDIX A
AASHTO Soil Classification System
AASHTO Soil Classification System (from AASHTO M 145 or ASTM D3282)
Silt-Clay Materials (>35% passing

General Classification Granular Materials (35% or less passing the 0.075 mm sieve)
the 0.075 mm sieve)
A-1 A-2 A-7
Group Classification A-3 A-4 A-5 A-6 A-7-5/ A-7-
A-1-a A-1-b A-2-4 A-2-5 A-2-6 A-2-7
6(1)
Sieve Analysis, % passing
2.00 mm (No. 10) 50 max … … … … … … … … … …
0.425 (No. 40) 30 max 50 max 51 min … … … … … … … …
0.075 (No. 200) 15 max 25 max 10 max 35 max 35 max 35 max 35 max 36 min 36 min 36 min 36 min
Characteristics of fraction passing 0.425 mm
(No. 40)
40 40
Liquid Limit … … 40 max 41 min 40 max 41 min 41 min 41 min
max max
10 10
Plasticity Index 6 max N.P. 10 max 10 max 11 min 11 min 11 min 11 min1
max max
Usual types of significant constituent stone fragments, gravel
fine sand silty or clayey gravel and sand silty soils clayey soils
materials and sand
General rating as a subgrade excellent to good fair to poor
Note (1): To decide between A-7-5 or A-7-6 follow the following guideline:
When the Plasticity Index is equal to or less than the LL – 30: A-7-5 subgroup
When the Plasticity Index is greater than LL – 30: A-7-6 subgroup
30
CMT1501/101/3/2019
APPENDIX B

Specified
strength of
mix(28 days.
MPa)
20 0.66 0.72 0.82
25 0.61 0.67 0.77
30 0.56 0.62 0.72
35 0.53 0.57 0.67
40 0.5 0.52 0.62
Water content L/m3
Sand quality
natural crusher
Very poor 240 235
poor 225 225
average 210 215
good 195 205
excellent 180 195

Approxima K
range. mm 9.5 13.2 19.0 26.5 37.5
Hand
75 - 150 0.75 0.84 0.94 1.00 1.05
compaction
Moderate
25 - 100 0.80 0.80 1.00 1.06 1.10
vibration
0 - 25 Heavy vibration 1.00 1.05 1.08 1.10 1.15
water requiremen t in liters
w : c ratio
Mc M M
 Vols = 1000 – ( + st + w )
Dc D st Dw
31
8.7 Other assessment methods
N/A
8.8 The examination
Your final mark for this module is calculated as follows:
 Assignments: 40% towards final mark (40% predicate needed to qualify for
examination , i.e. the average of your 2 assignments must be equal to or above 40%
to qualify for the examination)
 Examination: 60% towards final mark.
 A final mark of 50% and above is needed to pass the subject.
9 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The myStudies @ Unisa brochure contains an A-Z guide of the most relevant study information.
10 SOURCES CONSULTED
N/A
11 IN CLOSING
Do not hesitate to contact us by email if you are experiencing problems with the content of this
tutorial letter or with any academic aspect of the module.
We wish you a fascinating and satisfying journey through the learning material and trust that
you will complete the module successfully.
Enjoy the journey!
R Berkers – lecturer for CMT1501

Department of Civil & Chemical Engineering
12 ADDENDUM
N/A
32

CMT1501 Module Overview

Încărcat de

Informații document

Titlu original

Drepturi de autor

Formate disponibile

Partajați acest document

Partajați sau inserați document

Opțiuni de partajare

Vi se pare util acest document?

Este necorespunzător acest conținut?

Drepturi de autor:

Formate disponibile

CMT1501 Module Overview

Încărcat de

Drepturi de autor:

Formate disponibile

CMT1501/101/3/2019

Tutorial Letter 101/3/2019

Construction Materials I (Theory)

Civil & Chemical Engineering Department

This tutorial letter contains important information

2 PURPOSE AND OUTCOMES

3 LECTURER(S) AND CONTACT DETAILS

Department: Department of Civil and Chemical Engineering

4.2 Recommended book(s)

4.5 Library services and resources

 for detailed Library information go to

The Library has created numerous Library guides:

 Request and download recommended material:

5 STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

 Assignment 1: 20% towards final mark (i.e. 50% of your predicate)

8.2 Assessment plan

 Assignment 1: 20% towards final mark (i.e. 50% of your predicate)

8.3 Assignment numbers

8.3.2 Unique assignment numbers

First Semester Second Semester

Assignment 1 873459 Assignment 1 832417

Assignment 2 766526 Assignment 2 868161

Assignment 1 (Compulsory) online submission only 22 March 2019

Assignment 2 (Compulsory) online submission only 12 April 2019

Assignment 1 (Compulsory) online submission only 16 August 2019

Assignment 2 (Compulsory) online submission only 20 September 2019

8.5 Submission of assignments

8.6 The assignments

The following questions must be answered as briefly as possible. Answers can be

Question 2 (additional information on MyUnisa)

Refer to Appendix A for the AASHTO soil classification table.

4.1 Sample A. (2)

Table 4-1: Results of grading and Atterberg tests

Sample Sample Sample Sample Sample

2.00mm ( no. 10) 81 73 32 32 46

0.425mm (no. 40) 45 46 53 53 17

0.075mm (no. 200) 23 42 7 7 14

Question 5 (additional information on MyUnisa)

List 6 types of admixtures used in concrete (6)

In table format supply the following:

The manufacturing of clay bricks consists of 7 steps.

AASHTO Soil Classification System (from AASHTO M 145 or ASTM D3282)

The following questions must be answered as briefly as possible. Answers can be

Question 1 (additional information on MyUNISA)

Review, with a diagram (picture), how the rock cycle works.

Supply the following in your diagram:

 The three kinds of rocks. (3)

Do not copy and paste from MyUNISA!!!!

Soil is classified according to a classification system.

Question 3 (Additional information on MyUNISA)

Table 3-1: Grading results

[Total Q4= 19 marks]

Question 5 (additional information on MyUnisa)

Describe 5 advantages of using precast concrete. (5)

Question 6 (additional information on MyUNISA)

Question 7 (additional information on MyUNISA)

Describe five situations where Geosynthetics are used. (5)

Part of answer to question 4

Taps v/s % water

Table 1: w:c ratios for certain cementitious materials:

Table 3: values of K for determining stone content:

Question 2 (additional information on MyUnisa)

sieve size mass retained % retained % passing