Assessing the quality of sandstones for use as aggregate in concrete

Abstract

Sandstones have been widely used as a source of concrete aggregates. Sandstones show a variety of textural, mineralogic and chemical characteristics that may affect their physico-mechanical properties as well as their use as a construction material. The aim of this paper is to assess the influence of the composition and texture of sandstones on aggregate properties. In this study, Ordovician sandstones were compared with Carboniferous, Devonian and Permo-Triassic sandstones used as concrete aggregates in Istanbul. The sandstone samples were tested to determine their petrographic, mineralogic and chemical characteristics and aggregate properties. Then, the testing concretes were prepared by using these aggregates, and hardened concrete properties were determined. According to the results obtained, although Ordovician sandstones have poor aggregate quality as compared to other sandstones, they were found to be suitable for use as coarse aggregate in low-strength concrete production.