QUALITATIVE EVALUATION OF FINE AGGREGATE FOR SELECTED QUARRIES IN AL-NAJAF AL-ASHRAF

Abstract

Fine aggregate considered as the oldest building materials known by human, it's not inert substance, so that each of its physical and chemical properties need theoretical and laboratory studies, because, of its effect on the compressive strength and durability of concrete, one of the most important properties is the content of sulphate salts, which must be taken into account in all construction works. This research aims to conduct laboratory qualitative assessment of fine aggregate to demonstrate its suitability for construction work and quality assurance. Sampling of fine aggregate (sand) from four quarries in Al-Najaf Alashraf [(Syd Ali (S1), Wilaya Ali (S2), Syd Ahmed (S3) and Muhand Al-Khiat (S4)]. Some of physical tests (sieve analysis, deleterious materials (clay%), bulk density, specific gravity and absorption), chemical analysis for sulphate salts content, X-Ray technology for mineral composition as well as the compressive strength test were conducted on these samples. From the results of this research, its appear that Sample Wilaya Ali (S2) is the best for concrete works where the grading and sulphate salts content (SO3) is accepted by (IQS), and this sample gives accepted compressive strength. While Sample Syd Ali (S1) was the most fine with accepted sulphate salts content as compared with (IQS) which make it suitable for other construction works rather than concrete. Samples, Syd Ahmed (S3) and Muhand Al-Khiat (S4) are of high sulphate salts content (which cannot be treated) as compared with (IQS) which make them not compatible for concrete and other construction works.