Properties and effects of dormant aggregates on concrete strength

Aggregates used for concrete are sometimes abandoned on sites for extended periods of time. These aggregates are left dormant and exposed to harsh weather conditions before utilization. This study investigates the effect of aggregate dormancy of both fine aggregate (river sand) and coarse aggregate (gravel) on quality of concrete produced and its strength. Data for the study was collected over a 3 years dormant period of the aggregates, to determine the efficiency of the aggregates and its quality on concrete production and its strength. Experimental procedures such as; silt content, water absorption, specific gravity, sieve analysis, and the compressive strength test were conducted on the dormant aggregates to analyse its quality and strength of concrete produced through it. The analysis of the performed experiment on the dormant aggregates was presented through tables and figures. The finding of the study shows that that the strength of the concrete increases yearly due to reduction of silt content, high specific gravity, and an increase in the water absorption of the dormant aggregates. Base on the finding of this study, it is concluded that the dormancy of aggregates (river sand and gravel) have no effect on the concrete quality and its strength.