1. What is Bulk Specific Gravity of Aggregate?

Definition: Bulk specific gravity is the ratio of the bulk density of aggregate to the density of water at a specified temperature.

Purpose: It's a fundamental property used in mix design, volume calculations, and quality control of construction materials.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( SG_{bulk} \) — Bulk specific gravity (unitless)
• \( \rho_{bulk} \) — Bulk density of aggregate (kg/m³)
• \( \rho_{water} \) — Density of water (typically 1000 kg/m³)

Explanation: The bulk density of the aggregate is divided by the density of water to get the specific gravity.

3. Importance of Bulk Specific Gravity

Details: This value helps determine the quality and durability of aggregates, affects concrete mix design, and is used in volume-to-weight conversions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the bulk density of your aggregate in kg/m³ and water density (default 1000 kg/m³). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are typical bulk specific gravity values?
A: Typically 1.3–1.8 for crushed stone, 2.4–2.9 for normal weight aggregates.

Q2: Why is water density important?
A: Specific gravity is a relative measure compared to water, so we need water's density as the reference point.

Q3: How do I measure bulk density?
A: Weigh a known volume of aggregate in a container, then divide mass by volume.

Q4: Does temperature affect the calculation?
A: Yes, since water density changes with temperature, but the effect is minimal for most applications.

Q5: What's the difference between bulk and apparent specific gravity?
A: Bulk includes voids between particles, while apparent excludes water-permeable voids in particles.