A COMPARATIVE STUDY on EXPLORING POSSIBLE ALTERNATIVES to RIVER SAND in CEMENT MORTAR for BRICK MASONRY
Keywords:
Comparative study, slag sand, demolished sand, manufactured sand, bond strength, water absorption, grading, durability, workability, sustainable development.Abstract
This study presents a comprehensive comparative analysis aimed at exploring potential alternatives to river sand in cement mortar for brick masonry. With the growing concern over the depletion of river sand and its adverse environmental impacts, identifying suitable substitutes has become crucial for sustainable construction practices. The research methodology involved examining various alternative materials, including slag sand, manufactured sand, and demolished sand, as potential replacements for river sand. The properties of these alternatives were evaluated in terms of their physical, chemical, and mechanical characteristics. Additionally, their compatibility with cement mortar with proportions 1:3 and their influence on the performance of brick masonry were thoroughly investigated. The experimental results revealed that each alternative material exhibited distinct properties, highlighting their unique potential as substitutes for river sand. Factors such as particle size distribution, grading, and angularity were found to significantly influence the workability, strength, and durability of the cement mortar. Moreover, the behaviour of the brick masonry in terms of bond strength, water absorption was examined to assess the overall performance of the substitutes. Based on the comprehensive analysis of the experimental data, certain alternatives demonstrated promising suitability for brick masonry applications with 1:3 proportions. The findings provide valuable insights into the selection and usage of alternative materials, aiding engineers, architects, and construction professionals in making informed decisions regarding sustainable and environmentally friendly construction practices. This comparative study contributes to the on-going efforts in the construction industry to reduce reliance on river sand and promote the use of viable alternatives. It serves as a valuable reference for future research and development in the field of construction materials and contributes to the sustainable development of the built environment.
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