Effect of fine aggregate type on the durability and strength of concrete

Abstract

The effect of fine aggregate type on the durability and strength of concrete was assessed. The different fine aggregate sources the study considered were pit sand, river sand and sea sand from Shama in the Western region of Ghana. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of using different fine aggregate types or source on the durability and strength properties of concrete. The sample preparation and testing were conducted in accordance with BS EN 197-1. The study observed that the average compressive strength increases with the curing age. The compressive strength recorded for 7, 14 to 28 curing days were; 9.96 N/mm2, 13.86 N/mm2 and 16.00 N/mm2 respectively for Pit sand , 17.80 N/mm2, 18.70 N/mm2, and 25.33 N/mm2 respectively for river sand , 17.46 N/mm2, 18.00 N/mm2 and 22.50 N/mm2 respectively for sea sand . The highest compressive strength was recorded with concrete made from river sand 25.33N/mm2 -at curing age of 28 days as pit sand recorded the lowest compressive strength of 16.0 N/mm2 at 28 days of curing age. Water absorption test was conducted on the samples at curing age of 28 days through immersion. It was observed that concrete made with pit, river and sea sand recorded an average percentage of 4.008, 3.571 and 3.341 respectively. River sand is suitable for all construction works. The study therefore, recommends the use of river sand for all varieties of construction works such as concrete blocks, plastering, concrete production etc.