Soundness test determines the disintegration of aggregates due to weathering. This includes freezing, thawing, marine condition etc. However, the weak and porous aggregate shows a change in weight during this soundness test.

The soundness of the cement is the ability to resist volume changes after hardening. The soundness test on cement is significant because,using unsound cement leads to cracks and hamper the structural quality. A sound cement is one of the key materials used in construction. Therefore it is essential to determine its quality before using it in construction. 

Specific gravity and water absorption test are significant tests on aggregates. Perhaps aggregates are the fundamental and essential components of concrete and play a significant role in the design mix of concrete. More than 70 to 80 per cent of the volume of concrete is aggregate. Hence the water absorption and specific gravity test are essential and significant tests .

Bitumen is a binding material extensively used in the construction of flexible pavements, damp-proofing of the basement, floors, waterproofing of roofs, corrosion protection of reinforcement structures, etc.