About this code
Specification for natural and manufactured aggregates used in concrete. 2016 revision permits manufactured sand (M-sand), recycled aggregates, and updates grading limits.
Key sections
- 01Scope
- 02Sources of aggregates (natural, manufactured, recycled)
- 03Grading requirements
- 04Quality requirements
- 05Sampling
Critical clauses
M-sand permitted with controlled fines.
In practiceVerify methylene blue value <= 1.0 g/kg.
20mm graded: well-defined sieve limits.
In practiceCombined grading reduces water demand.
Zone I (coarse) to Zone IV (fine).
In practiceBangalore M-sand typically Zone II.
Silt <3%, chloride <0.06%, sulphate <0.4%.
In practiceWash river sand if silt high.
RCA permitted up to 20% in M25 and below.
In practiceTest water absorption — typically 4-7%.
Practical implications
Specify zone for FA, grading for CA.
Test source quarterly.
Visually verify cleanliness on delivery.
FAQs
Yes — IS 383:2016 explicitly permits M-sand with controlled fines and methylene blue.
20% RCA in M25 and below for plain/RCC.
Purchase the official Bureau of Indian Standards publication for the complete, legally-binding text.
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