Characterization of fine aggregates in concrete by different experimental approaches

Being its major component, aggregate can occupy up to three-quarter of the volume of concrete. The structure of aggregate formed in hardened state impacts largely on mechanical and durability properties of concrete. On another hand, physical characteristics of aggregate are primarily assumed to be relevant to granular behavior of aggregate. Therefore, characterization of aggregate is of high relevance to concrete studies. In this study, different types of fine aggregate used in concrete, namely river sand and crushed limestone, are selected for morphological characterization. Traditional sieve analysis and laser diffraction method are employed for separation and size analysis of specimens. Different types of fine aggregate samples with comparable size ranges are then analyzed by two advanced dry (static) and wet (dynamic) image analysers. These new analysers are especially suitable for characterization of fine particles, which is difficult by traditional image analysis equipments. Size and shape characteristics of different fine aggregates will be revealed by different experimental methods. The results on different parameters for shape characterization will be compared and discussed.