FINE AGGREGATE USAGE IN CONCRETE AND MASONRY MORTAR BY LOCAL CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRIES

Abstract

Fine aggregate is playing a vital role in both concrete and mortar. The main source of fine aggregate in the resent past is the river sand. The demand for natural river sand has increased as a result of the recent construction boom and the river sand price has escalated tremendously. Increased demand on river sand leads to over extracting and improper mining activities near the river beds causing harmful threats to the environment. This study was carried out based on the comprehensive questionnaire survey conducted among large and small scale contractors to determine the following necessities; whether the contractors are using or seeking manufactured sand as an alternative fine aggregate and issues regarding manufactured sand or whether they are trying any other alternatives for natural river sand. Based on the survey it is identified that majority of the surveyed contractors are using natural river sand and the usage of manufactured sand and offshore sand is very small. Most of the contractors are still reluctant to use these alternatives due to the lack of knowledge among the contractors.