COMPARATIVE STUDY OF THE PHYSICAL AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF CONCRETE PRODUCE WITH DIFFERENT SANDS IN BUI DIVISION-NORTHWEST CAMEROON

Abstract

The utilization of three different sands (Noni sand, Oku sand, Mbo-Nso sand) from Bui Division for concrete production was investigated. Their physical and mechanical properties were compared at different stages to determine the best sand for concrete production. Gravel from Dreamland quarry in Mankon and CIMAF 32.5R cement brand were used for the study. The study focuses on the comparative study of some properties of the three sands to ascertain their suitability for concrete production and to determine by comparison which of the sands will produce a compressive resistance of acceptable standards (20 MPa to 25 MPa) in 28 days. The tests carried out on these materials were : sand equivalent, grain size distribution, specific gravity, and apparent density. The DREUX-GORISSE method of concrete formulation was used to determine the batching of aggregates, binder and water for the mix. The mixing was done by hand and the Abrams cone method used to determine the slump of each batch. Eight (8) cubes of 150 mm x 150 mm x 150 mm were produced per batch for the compressive resistance test and densities. The curing was done by submerging the cubes in water for the required period. The compressive resistance which is the most effective property of concrete was investigated for 7, 14, 21 and 28 days. The results of aggregates study and concrete compressive strength reveals that, Noni sand has the highest compressive strength of 21.5 MPa after 28 days which is within the acceptable range for structural works in the North-west region, followed by Mbo-Nso sand with a resistance of 19.35 MPa which can be improved upon by the use of admixtures and Oku sand gives the lowest compressive Strength of 10.22 MPa which cannot be recommended for structural works.