Particle size distribution

The results of the sieve analysis are presented in a graph of percent passing versus sieve size. On the graph the sieve size scale is logarithmic. To find the percent of aggregates passing through each sieve, first find the percent retained in each sieve. The next step is to find the cumulative percent of aggregate retained in each sieve. To do so, add up the total amount of aggregate that is retained in each sieve and the amount in the previous sieves. The cumulative percent passing of the aggregate is found by subtracting the percent retained from 100%. The values are then plotted on a graph with cumulative percent passing on the y-axis and logarithmic sieve size on the x-axis like in the figure below.

Figure: A sieve analysis chart. The figure shows the typical particle size distribution of fine aggregate sample compared to an ideal particle size distribution which can give maximum packing density.