Different Types of Aggregates Used In Construction

Aggregate is the most important building material that is used in construction. The aggregates are commonly used to produce concrete by mixing the amount of cement, fine aggregates, and coarse water. Here, we will discuss what aggregate is in detail and what are their various types used during construction. So let’s take a look at it now.

What is Aggregate?

Aggregates are small pieces of stones that are formed by breaking or crushing. The size of the aggregate is very small. The smallest of all aggregates would be sand. Aggregate size also varies from coarse to finely graded materials. These are extracted from both natural and man-made sources. These aggregates are normally used in the concrete-making process.

Classification of Aggregates Used In Construction

1. Artificial and Natural Aggregates

The fragmented rocks used in making concrete are called natural aggregates. The natural aggregates are mostly found on the earth’s surface. These natural aggregates are collected from the pits, riverbeds, and the Seabed. Before these rocks are supplied to the customers, they are washed and cleaned by the aggregate supplier. At the same time, the aggregates that are created for concrete production on a large scale are called artificial aggregates. These artificial aggregates are crushed and prepared in a controlled environment. These are mostly prepared artificially for the building material.

2. Recycled And Crushed Aggregates

There are two types of recycled and crushed aggregates classified on the basis of geographical origin. The recycled aggregates are always used in concrete production for getting longer life and can be recycled. Recycled aggregates are used for multiple purposes in the economy. The natural crushed aggregates include pebbles, sand, gravel, and crushed stone obtained from the mining operations. These rocks are crushed with the mechanical process to make the crushed aggregates. These are also known as high-quality crushed aggregates.

3. Coarse And Fine Aggregates

Coarse aggregates are large-sized aggregates used in the construction of a road. These are generally available in gravel, crushed stone, and crushed rock that is a little bit bigger than the coarse aggregates. The fine aggregates are used to make concrete, commonly used in building materials, road construction, etc. These aggregates are classified based on grain size. The material that has a particle size less than 2 mm is known as fine aggregate. On the other hand, the coarse Aggregate has a particle size of more than 2mm.

4. Angular And Rounded Aggregates:

Aggregates are classified based on shape or geometry namely angular and rounder. The angular aggregates have sharp edges, rough faces, non triangular shapes, and flat surfaces. Angular aggregates are commonly found on the earth’s surface itself. The rocks like gravel, crushed stone, and crushed rock obtained from mining operations are considered angular aggregates. Rounder aggregates are used for producing concrete by mixing the amount of fine aggregate, angular aggregates, and cement.

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