Conference name, dates, place

Third International Conference on Development Studies in Ethiopia, June 18-19, 2005, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Document Type

Paper

Presentation Date

6-2005

Abstract

Concrete is one of the versatile and widely used building material in the world construction industry. Fine and coarse aggregates make about 70% by volume of concrete production. It goes without saying that the quality of concrete is thus strongly influenced by aggregate’s physical and mechanical properties as well as chemical composition of the parent aggregate making material. This calls for a critical identification and classification of aggregates so that they are used to meet the intended purpose.

In this article, the physical, mechanical, and chemical properties of aggregates are reviewed. The sources and modes of production of coarse and fine aggregates in the Ethiopian construction industry are assessed. The properties of some aggregate samples, which are mainly quarried from around the city of Addis Ababa, where the major share of construction works are taking place, are discussed. The test results are compared with the standard requirements and concrete compressive strength data’s obtained using different aggregate qualities are evaluated. Based on the findings, conclusions are drawn and recommendations are forwarded.

Share

COinS