Aggregate Impact Value Test (AIV Test) — Procedure, Formula & Lab Reports

IS Code: IS 2386 (Part IV) |
Last Updated: 11 Dec 2025 |
Author: Kishor Kumar

Quick Summary

• Aim: Determine Aggregate Impact Value (AIV) to assess aggregate toughness
• IS Code: IS 2386 Part IV
• Sample Size: 10–12.5 mm aggregates
• Result: Percentage of fines generated due to impact

Objective

To determine the Aggregate Impact Value (AIV), which represents the
percentage of fines produced when aggregates are subjected to sudden impact.
This test is used to assess the toughness of aggregates for
highway pavements and concrete works.

Apparatus Required

• Aggregate Impact Testing Machine (IS 2386 Part IV)
• Cylindrical mould with base plate
• Tamping rod
• Sieve set (12.5 mm, 10 mm, 2.36 mm)
• Weighing balance
• Oven (optional)
• Aggregate sample (10–12.5 mm size)

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Take 500 g of aggregate passing 12.5 mm sieve and retained on 10 mm sieve.
2. Fill the cylindrical mould in three layers, tamping each layer 25 times.
3. Place the mould on the base plate of the impact testing machine.
4. Apply 15 blows using a 14 kg hammer dropped from a height of 38 cm.
5. Remove the sample and sieve it through a 2.36 mm sieve.
6. Weigh the fines passing 2.36 mm sieve (W₂).
7. Record the original oven-dry weight of the sample (W₁).

Observations & Sample Table

Average AIV = 15.2% (Suitable for wearing surfaces)

Calculations & Formula

Aggregate Impact Value (AIV):
AIV (%) = (W₂ / W₁) × 100

Limits & Interpretation

• Wearing surfaces: AIV ≤ 30%
• Other concrete works: AIV ≤ 45%

Lower AIV values indicate stronger and tougher aggregates.
High AIV values indicate weak aggregates unsuitable for heavy traffic pavements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Aggregate Impact Value?

Aggregate Impact Value is the percentage of fines produced when aggregates are
subjected to sudden impact loading.

Which IS code specifies AIV test?

IS 2386 (Part IV).

What is the acceptable AIV limit?

Below 30% for wearing surfaces and below 45% for other concrete works.

How is AIV calculated?

AIV = (Weight of fines passing 2.36 mm sieve / Oven-dry sample weight) × 100

HowTo: Perform AIV Test Quickly

1. Prepare 500 g aggregate sample (10–12.5 mm).
2. Fill mould in 3 layers and tamp each layer 25 times.
3. Apply 15 hammer blows from 38 cm height.
4. Sieve through 2.36 mm and weigh fines.
5. Calculate AIV and compare with limits.
6. Repeat for 3 trials and take average.

Related Aggregate Tests for Highway & Concrete Works

Explore detailed test procedures, calculations and acceptance criteria as per
IS, MoRTH & IRC specifications:

• ✅
  Aggregate Impact Value (AIV) Test – Toughness of Aggregates
  
• ✅
  Los Angeles Abrasion Test – Wear & Abrasion Resistance
  
• ✅
  Aggregate Crushing Value (ACV) Test – Strength Evaluation
  
• ✅
  Flakiness & Elongation Index Test – Shape Characteristics
  
• ✅
  Water Absorption Test – Durability & Porosity Check
  

📌 Pro Tip: Use AIV, ACV,
Los Angeles Abrasion, and Shape & Water Absorption Tests
together to ensure aggregate suitability for bituminous layers & cement concrete
as per MoRTH Section 400 & 500.