Laboratory testing of sand
MATTEST performs laboratory testing of construction sand and sandy soils. The tests establish the composition and properties of the material and verify its suitability for concrete, mortars, backfilling, bases and other construction works.
What MATTEST determines in sand
- 01Moisture content
Assessment of the actual material state and adjustment of dosage in concrete and mortar mixes.
- 02Grading and fineness modulus
Size distribution and classification of the material by fineness.
- 03Bulk density
Volume, mass, storage and dosing calculation for the material.
- 04True grain density
Density of the material excluding voids between individual grains.
- 05Dust and clay particle content
Effect of fine impurities on water demand of the mix and bond with cement paste.
- 06Clay-lump content
Detection of inclusions that can disintegrate, soften and reduce homogeneity.
- 07Maximum dry density and optimum moisture
Laboratory reference for on-site compaction control. Bases, embankments, backfills.
- 08Coefficient of permeability of sandy soil
Ability of sand to transmit water. Bases, backfills, drainage layers.
The exact set of parameters is defined by the intended use of the sand, the project and the laboratory scope.
When testing is required
- incoming control of sand for concrete and mortar
- verification of a new batch or supplier
- control of material for backfilling
- construction of bases and embankments
- selection of material for drainage layers
- determination of a laboratory reference for compaction control
- independent verification when sand quality is in doubt
How the work is performed
- The laboratory receives or takes a sample.
- The sample is identified and prepared.
- Parameters are selected based on the intended use and project requirements.
- Laboratory measurements are performed.
- Results are compared with the provided criteria.
- The test report is issued.
MATTEST does not label sand as "good" or "bad" without understanding its intended use. The same material may be suitable for backfilling but fail requirements for a concrete aggregate.
Deliverables for the client
- sample identification
- actual values of the tested parameters
- applied methods and standards
- comparison with the provided requirements
- test report
- photographs of the tests when required by the traceability system
Applicable standards
- GOST 8735-88 — test methods for construction sand; the standard is in force and applied by Uzbek laboratories
- GOST 22733-2016 — determination of maximum dry density and optimum moisture
- GOST 25584-2023 — current interstate method for coefficient of permeability of soils; supersedes the 2016 edition
Compliance criteria come from the project, product data sheet or an agreed standard. GOST 8736-2025 is not automatically transferred to the standards base of an Uzbek project until its applicability is confirmed.