Strength of concrete produced with different sources of aggregates from selected parts of Abia and Imo States of Nigeria

Purpose: This paper aims to investigate the 28-day compressive strength of concrete produced with aggregates from different sources. Design/methodology/approach: Coarse aggregates were crushed granite and natural local stones mined from Umunneochi, Lokpa and Uturu, Isuakwato, respectively, in Abia State, Nigeria. Fine aggregate (river sand) and another coarse aggregate (river stone) were dredged from Otammiri River in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria. The nominal mix ratios were 1:1:2, 1:2:4 and 1:3:6, whereas the respective water–cement ratios were 0.45, 0.5, 0.55 and 0.6. Findings: The compressive strength of granite concrete, river stone concrete and local stone concrete ranged 17.79-38.13, 15.37-34.57 and 14.17-31.96 N/mm2, respectively. Compressive strength was found to increase with decreasing water–cement ratio and increasing cement content. Practical implications: Granite concrete should be used in reinforced-concrete construction, especially when a cube compressive strength of 30 N/mm2 or higher is required. Originality/value: Granite concrete exceeded the target compressive strength for all the concrete specimens, whereas river stone concrete and local stone concrete failed to achieve the target strength for some mix proportions and water–cement ratios.