مرکز منطقه ای اطلاع رساني علوم و فناوري - Research on Suitability of Crushed Andesite-Basalt Rock Aggregates in Ardahan Province for Concrete Production

Abstract :

In this study, suitability of aggregates, obtained from an aggregate quarry of Balıkçılar village meeting significant portion of crushed stone aggregate demand of construction sector and used in constructions in central town of Ardahan province, for concrete production and concrete compressive strength were investigated. Samples taken from the selected quarry were subjected to physico-mechanical analyses to determine their compliance with the relevant standards on sufficiency, physical, mechanical characteristics, chemical and mineralogical properties. Then, concrete was produced from these aggregates in a laboratory and strength tests were conducted on concrete specimens. Cement dosage was taken as 270 kg/dm^3 for C20/25, 300 kg/dm^3 for C25/30 and 360 kg/dm^3 for C30/37. Results revealed that majority of the values were within the limit values specified in relevant standards. Although the amount of fine materials and alkali-silica reaction were close to limit values, concrete tests did not reveal any negative effects and concrete strength values were found to be above the limits specified in relevant standards. Thus, aggregates should be used through taking relevant measures. It was concluded that aggregates should be washed through and separated in different granulometric portions to produce quality and strong concrete. Further research is recommended for mineral admixtures to control alkali-silica reaction.