Local Aggregate in Production of Concrete Mix in Jordan

Abstract

Concrete properties such as unit weight and compressive strength are highly dependable on the properties of aggregate. Current research aims to study the effect of aggregate properties on concrete considering the resource of aggregate. The properties of aggregate and fine sand were studied (specific gravity, density, absorption, and abrasion). Also, the properties of concrete were studied (density, unit weight, and compressive strength). Samples of coarse and medium aggregates, and fine sand were collected from different areas in Jordan (Ajloun, Amman, Aqaba, Irbid, Jerash, Karak, Ma’an, Madaba, Salt, Zarqa, and Tafila) to be tested and used in concrete mix. Aggregate from South of Jordan has higher values in specific gravity and bulk density (Aqaba, Ma’an, and Karak aggregates). Also, the same aggregate samples have lower values in absorption and abrasion (Ma’an, Aqaba, Karak, and Tafila). For the properties of concrete that include density, unit weight, and compressive strength, all samples have achieved the design properties and strength in the current study. For density and unit weight, samples from South of Jordan have higher values (Ma’an and Aqaba). And for compressive strength, Ma’an, Irbid and Amman concrete samples have the highest values at 7-day, while the 28-day compressive strength comes highest for Zarqa, Ma’an, Irbid and Amman. From the results of the current study, the compressive strength at 7-day and 28-day is related to the density of coarse and medium aggregate, abrasion, and absorption. The higher the density, the higher the compressive strength. And the lower abrasion and absorption, the higher the compressive strength of concrete. Current research will be useful in selecting the source of aggregate to produce a considerable concrete strength.