Which method is commonly employed for analyzing the gradation of aggregate samples?

The dry sieve analysis is a widely accepted method for evaluating the gradation of aggregate samples. This technique involves passing the aggregate through a series of sieves with varying mesh sizes, allowing for the separation of the material into different size fractions. The amount of material retained on each sieve is weighed, and this data is then used to determine the particle size distribution, or gradation, of the aggregate.

This method is particularly useful for construction and engineering applications, as it provides essential information about the aggregate's suitability for specific uses, including concrete and asphalt mix designs. The results from a dry sieve analysis can indicate whether the aggregate conforms to the specifications required for a particular project and help in assessing how the material will perform in terms of workability, strength, and durability. This makes the dry sieve analysis a fundamental technique in aggregate testing and quality assurance processes.