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METHYLENE BLUE TEST SET AZA0860
The AZA0860 Methylene Blue Test Set from AZA Lab is a comprehensive laboratory system designed to determine the clay content and clay activity in fine aggregates and soils through measurement of the Methylene Blue Value (MBV). The test is highly sensitive to active clay minerals—particularly montmorillonite—that can adversely affect the performance of concrete, asphalt, and other construction materials.
This method is widely adopted in aggregate quality control, concrete mix design, asphalt technology, and geotechnical investigations, providing a reliable indicator of fines reactivity and cation exchange capacity.
Standards Compliance
- EN 933-9 – Tests for geometrical properties of aggregates (Methylene Blue Test)
- NF P94-068
- UNE 83 180
- UNI 8520-15
- ASTM C837 – Methylene Blue Index of Clay in Fine Aggregate
Description
Test Method Overview
In the Methylene Blue Test, a known mass of soil or fine aggregate (typically the 0–2 mm fraction) is dispersed in water and continuously agitated. A standardized methylene blue solution is gradually titrated into the suspension using a burette.
At regular intervals, a drop of the suspension is placed on filter paper. The test endpoint is reached when a persistent blue halo forms around the drop, indicating that all active clay surfaces have been saturated. The volume of methylene blue solution consumed is used to calculate the Methylene Blue Value (MBV), which is directly proportional to the clay content and activity of the sample.
This method is particularly effective for identifying swelling and highly reactive clays, helping prevent durability issues such as cracking, loss of strength, and volumetric instability.
Applications
- Fine aggregate quality control (sand cleanliness assessment)
- Concrete mix design and durability evaluation
- Asphalt and hot-mix design (control of filler and fines)
- Geotechnical investigation of clayey soils
- Soil classification and clay activity assessment
System Configuration (Standard Supply)
- High-speed agitator motor, 400–600 RPM, 210–240 V, 50–60 Hz
- Stirring propeller, Ø 70 mm, 4-flank design
- Glass burette, 50 ml × 0.1 ml
- Burette holder and support stand
- Filter paper, Ø 125 mm, 95 g/m², thickness 0.20 mm (1 pack / 100 pcs.)
- Glass rod, Ø 8 × 300 mm
- Plastic beaker, 1000 ml
- Methylene blue powder, 100 g
- Kaolinite reference material, 500 g
Technical Specifications
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | AZA0860 |
| Test Method | Methylene Blue Value (MBV) |
| Applicable Fraction | 0 – 2 mm (fine aggregates / soils) |
| Burette | 25 ml or 50 ml, manual or digital |
| Stirrer | High-speed agitator / magnetic stirrer with speed control |
| Power Supply | 210–240 V AC, 50–60 Hz |
| Filter Paper | Ashless, Ø 125 mm |
| MB Reagent | Methylene blue powder / solution |
| Sensitivity | High sensitivity to montmorillonite and active clays |
| Compliance | ASTM C837, EN 933-9 and related standards |
What’s Included
- Complete Methylene Blue Test Set (AZA0860)
- Agitator motor with propeller
- Burette with stand
- Filter paper pack (100 pcs.)
- Methylene blue reagent (starter quantity)
- Kaolinite reference sample
- Accessories as listed above
- Instruction manual with MBV calculation guidance
Optional Items / Spares
- Replacement filter paper packs
- Additional methylene blue reagent
- Digital burette
- Precision balance and graduated cylinders
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What does the Methylene Blue Test measure?
It measures the clay content and clay activity (cation exchange capacity) of fine particles in aggregates and soils.
Q2: Why is the MBV test important for concrete and asphalt?
Active clays absorb water and interfere with bonding, leading to cracking and durability issues. The MBV test helps identify and control such materials.
Q3: Which clay minerals are detected by this test?
The test is particularly sensitive to montmorillonite, as well as other active clay minerals.
Q4: Is the endpoint determined visually or electronically?
The endpoint is determined visually using the filter paper spot test, indicated by a permanent blue halo.
Q5: Does the AZA0860 include reagents?
Yes. A starter quantity of methylene blue and kaolinite reference material is supplied. Consumables can be replenished as required.
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