5.10.5.

FINENESS MODULUS OF AGGREGATES (GRADATION FACTOR)

1. Scope.

This method covers the procedure for calculating the fineness modulus (also known as the gradation
factor) of aggregates.

This abstract, but useful figure indicates the relative fineness or coarseness of an aggregate gradation and
indicates to some extent, the distribution of sizes of the aggregate if the maximum size is known.

2. Procedure.

The fineness modulus is determined by adding the percentages by mass retained on the following sieves
meeting AASHTO designation M92, and dividing by 100

3" (75mm), 1 1/2" (3.75 mm), 3/4" (19 mm), 3/8" (9.5 mm), No. 4 (4.75 mm), No. 8 (2.36 mm), No. 16
(1.18 mm), No. 30 (600 μm), No. 50 (300 μm) and No. 100 (150 μm).

Example:

For the following gradation.

Sieve Size Percent Retained

(English) (SI)

3/8" 9.5 mm 0
No. 4 4.75 mm 2
No. 8 2.36 mm 16
No. 16 1.18 mm 27
No. 30 600 μm 62
No. 50 300 μm 88
No. 100 150 μm 96

The fineness modulus (gradation factor) is:

2 + 16 + 27 + 62 + 88 + 96
= 2.91
100

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