What is aggregate? Aggregates form the basic building elements in construction projects and determine the physical properties of the material. While a quality aggregate ensures the longevity of concrete, the use of incorrectly selected or inappropriate aggregates can negatively affect the durability of structures. Construction processes are optimized by selecting the appropriate aggregate type for different projects. Classification of aggregates is generally based on grain size, source and area of use. Natural aggregates include materials obtained from river deposits or quarries, while artificial aggregates consist of industrial waste or components produced by special processes.
What is aggregate? Aggregate combines with cement in concrete production to form a hard and durable building material. Factors that determine aggregate quality in the construction industry include grain size distribution, shape characteristics, density and water absorption capacity. In particular, aggregates used in road construction must be resistant to abrasion and resistant to environmental influences. In addition, aggregate selection is one of the factors that directly affect costs. The aggregate to be used in the project can be sourced locally. This provides an economic advantage by reducing transportation costs. At the same time, it is an environmentally sensitive choice in terms of sustainability.
How is Aggregate Used in Construction?
In the construction industry, aggregate is one of the basic components of concrete and mortar production. Aggregate, which increases the durability and strength of building materials, is used in various projects with different grain sizes and properties. In concrete production, it combines with cement to form a solid building material and contributes to the longevity of structures.
Aggregates are divided into two types according to their grain size: fine aggregates and coarse aggregates. Fine aggregates are generally composed of sand and similar materials, while coarse aggregates consist of gravel and crushed stones. In concrete production, the use of these materials in the right proportions increases the bearing capacity and durability of the structure.
In addition, the physical and chemical properties of aggregates also play an important role in the construction industry. In particular, specific gravity is a critical factor that determines the density of aggregate and its effect on concrete. Aggregates with high specific gravity are preferred to produce denser and more durable concretes.
Aggregates provide many advantages in construction projects:
- Cost advantage: When sourced locally, they offer economical solutions by reducing transportation costs.
- Increasing strength: Strengthens the compressive strength and abrasion resistance of concrete.
- Sustainability: The use of recycled aggregates ensures an environmentally friendly approach.
- Workability: Ensures easy application of concrete with the correct grain size distribution.
Is Aggregate Used in Concrete Block Construction?
Concrete blocks are widely used building elements in the construction industry due to their durability and economy. One of the most important components in the production of these blocks is the use of aggregates. Aggregates combine with cement and water to form the basic structure of concrete and increase the strength of the material. Choosing the right aggregate in concrete block production is of great importance in terms of the durability, insulation properties and long life of the blocks.
Aggregates used in concrete block production are usually obtained from natural quarries or recycled materials. These materials must comply with certain standards. The mining sector plays an important role in the extraction of natural aggregates required for concrete block production.
The use of aggregates provides many advantages by improving the physical and chemical properties of concrete blocks:
- Increased Strength: Choosing the right aggregate increases the blocks’ resistance to pressure.
- Lightness and Insulation: Concrete blocks provide better thermal and sound insulation when lightweight aggregates are used.
- Cost Advantage: Locally sourced aggregates offer economical solutions by reducing production costs.
- Environmentally Friendly Production: The use of recycled aggregates contributes to sustainable construction practices.
