Sand can be divided into three types according to the grain size: coarse, medium, and fine. The determination of these fractions is important because they affect the technical properties and performance of sands as a road surface in terms of plasticity, strength, and load capacity. The shape of the sand particles influences their density and stability as well as the overall technical behavior. Smooth, rounded particles would offer less resistance to rearrangement than angular or elongated particles with rough surfaces
Initially, river sand was used as a fine aggregate in construction. Later, the use of the produced sand also became popular because of its advantages.
The growing demand for building materials has led to a shortage in the supply of building materials. It can also be observed that some projects are delayed due to a lack of equipment on site. In addition, the constant supply of materials is becoming more and more difficult today.
Growing environmental concerns related to the extraction of river sand from the riverbeds have limited extraction. In addition to the impact on the environment, the excavation of rivers has led to ruptured bridges, retaining structures, soil erosion, collapsed rivers, etc.
Sand is used in mortar and concrete for the following purposes:
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1. It divides the binder paste into thin films and allows them to adhere and spread.
2. It fills the space between the two building blocks and distributes the bonding material.
3. It increases the density of mortar and concrete.
4. It prevents the shrinkage of the cementing material.
5. It allows the carbon dioxide of the atmosphere to reach a certain depth and thus improves thereby fixing the performance.
6. The cost of the cementing material per unit volume is reduced because this inexpensive material increases the volume of the cementing material.
7. Quartz sand contributes to the formation of silicates, which leads to a hardened mass.
Why Sea sand is not being used for Mortars and Concrete
Sea sand should not be used to make mortar and concrete for the following reasons:
1. It contains salt and therefore the structure remains damp. The mortar is affected by efflorescence and then blisters appear.
2. It contains bark and organic matter which over time degrades and reduces the strength and life of mortar and concrete.
Sand can also be artificially extracted by crushing stones. When stones are crushed into coarse aggregates, it is a by-product. The tiny particles of crushed stone make up artificial sand for construction work. Artificial sand is very often used in the construction of dams and bridges.
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