Recognizing Coarse Aggregates

What are Coarse Aggregates?

Coarse aggregate are used to make concrete and it occupies the bulk of its volume. The properties of coarse aggregates like its density, strength, porosity, size, texture and shape influences the physical properties of concrete and its durability.

How to choose good quality coarse aggregate in India?

Image is not available

The strength of coarse aggregates depends upon the strength of the parent rock from which it is sourced. Ideally the coarse aggregates should be sourced from granite and of roughly cubical shape.

Image is not available

Coarse aggregate for concrete should be well graded i.e. it should have aggregate particles of different size fractions to ensure better packing of concrete.

Image is not available

In case aggregates of single size viz. 20mm,10mm are available then the same should be blended in appropriate ratio (say 60:40 or 70:30) and then used in concrete.

Image is not available

Coarse aggregate should not contain any harmful chemicals like sulphates, chlorides which affect the durability of concrete.

course aggregate

How to avoid buying poor quality coarse aggregate?

Image is not available

Aggregate sourced / made from low strength and porous rock is considered poor quality.

Image is not available

Avoid buying uniformly graded aggregate- when coarse aggregate pieces are more or less of the same size.

Image is not available

Use of elongated and flaky aggregates should be avoided as they have higher surface area as compared to cubical particles, negatively affecting workability of concrete and eventually results in increased cement demand.

Image is not available

Elongated aggregates (when the length of aggregate is more than twice its width) have a tendency to break at very low compressive loads as a result the compressive strength of concrete made with such aggregates is also lower and hence their use should be avoided.

Slider

Learn More

Important building best practices to be followed at all stages of construction.

Important building best practices to be followed at all stages of construction.

Building best practices should be used at every stage of a construction project to ensure its success. So here are some key best practices to keep in mind. 

How can an experienced contractor facilitate high-quality construction?

How can an experienced contractor facilitate high-quality construction?

Building a high-quality structure requires skilled and experienced contractors. Let’s find out more about how an experienced contractor adds value in constructing your dream home.
How to choose a contractor for home construction in India

How to choose a contractor for home construction in India

Choosing a contractor can be tricky. Here's a complete guide on how to find the best.