Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Transportation

PA Test Method No. 149 Revised June 2003 4 Pages

MATERIALS AND TESTING DIVISION Method of Test for DETERMINATION OF COEFFICIENT OF UNIFORMITY 1. SCOPE

1.1 This method describes a procedure to determine how well graded a material is from the top to the bottom sieve size by calculating a coefficient of uniformity. This coefficient is defined in ASTM D-653, and is important for determining the acceptability of open graded material. This coefficient is a measure of how the material will compact and how stable it will be in place. 2. OUTLINE OF METHOD

2.1 The ratio D60/D10, where D60 is the particle diameter corresponding to 60% finer on the cumulative particle-size distribution curve, and where D10 is the particle diameter corresponding to 10% finer on the cumulative particle-size distribution curve, is determined. 3. PROCEDURE

3.1 Plot the grading on a gradation chart as shown on Page 3. A blank copy of the chart is provided with this PTM that may be photocopied for use by those performing the test. A similar chart may be produced from a standard to division x 3 cycle log paper. 3.1.1 Take the percent passing values for at least six sieve sizes from the gradation analysis and plot them on the gradation chart. 3.1.2 Connect the points with straight lines.

3.2 From the gradation chart, at the 10% passing point, draw a vertical line to the millimeter scale and record the number (D10). 3.3 From the gradation chart, at the 60% passing point draw a vertical line to the millimeter scale and record the number (D60).

PTM No. 149 June 2003 Page 2 4. CALCULATIONS 4.1 Coefficient of Uniformity - Calculate as follows using the gradation curve: 4.1.1 Formula: D60/D10 = C Where: D10 = 10% of the sample is passing the 1.4 millimeter size D60 = 60% of the sample is passing the 11.8 millimeter size C = Coefficient of Uniformity Therefore, from the example: D60/D10 = 11.8/1.4 = 8.4 5. REPORT

5.1 The report shall include the gradation chart with D10 and D60 marked and the coefficient of uniformity indicated.

PTM No. 149 June 2003 Page 3

PTM No. 149 June 2003 Page 4

This page left intentionally blank