Investigating the Effects of Coarse Aggregate Physical Properties on Strength of C-25 Concrete

Abstract

The strength of concrete mostly depends on the strength and properties of coarse aggregate since the major volume of concrete was covered by coarse aggregate. The physical properties of coarse aggregates do grossly affect the workability and structural performance of concrete. This study considered the effects of physical properties of coarse aggregate on properties of concrete and the difference in strength of concrete made from four different types of coarse aggregates namely crushed basalt, crushed marble, river graver and surface gravel which were collected from different areas near to Nekemte town. For each types of collected coarse aggregate their physical properties are determined by performing necessary laboratory tests to attain the objective of the study. For proportioning of concrete making materials the ACI concrete mix design was followed. Total of 36 cubes and 12 beam molds were casted for determination of compressive strength flexural strength of C-25 concrete made from the four aggregate samples. The results indicate physical properties and types of coarse aggregate have effects on the strength of concrete. The four coarse aggregate samples have different physical properties and produced concrete having different compressive and flexural strength. Thus, it concludes, the compressive and flexural strength of concrete was greatly influenced by the physical properties and strength of coarse aggregate.