Granular Mixture Improving the Properties of Abidjan Alluvial Sands

Abstract

This study is part of the search for solutions to disasters linked to the non-conformity of construction materials. It aims to propose quality granular mixtures aimed at improving the properties of Abidjan’s alluvial sands. The raw materials used are sands from the Koumassi, Bingerville and Yopougon lagoons and granite powder. The raw materials were subjected to several characterization tests (granulometric analysis, sand equivalent, bulk density, absolute density), mixtures were formulated by partially substituting alluvial sands at 30%, 50%, and 80% with granite powder, and they were subjected to the same characterization tests as the raw materials. The granulometric analysis revealed that all the alluvial sands were of granular class 0/1 and the granite powder of granular class 0/4. The sands of Bingerville and Yopougon were spread and well graded while that of Koumassi was spread but poorly graded. The compactness of the Koumassi mixtures increased from 62% to 65%, that of Bingerville also increased from 58% to 62% and that of Yopougon slightly increased from 64% to 65%. This increase in compactness was followed by a correction of the particle size class from 0/1 to 0/4 for the mixtures. The results obtained indicate that a 50% substitution provides an optimal balance of properties, thus enhancing the potential of these local materials for construction.