A Comparative Study on the Properties of Concrete Containing Blended Pit and River Sands of Western Kenya

Abstract

This comparative study examines the properties of Pit sand and River sand as used in the construction industry in the Western Kenya by determining the existing silt content which varies from 2.4% to 24.1%. The study also determines then concrete strength that relates to the respective silt contents. The Blending of sand from different sources with silt content from 2.4% and 8.6% are used to blend Pit sand containing silt from 12.1% to 24.1%. Significant improvement is observed with silt content reduction. Consequently, concrete derived from blended pit with river sands has shown concrete achieving the target strength of 25KN/M2. The research assesses the suitability of these sand sources for construction purposes, and blending considering factors such as compressive strength, workability, and durability. Through comprehensive testing and analysis, our study reveals significant variations in concrete properties between the two sand types. The study also finds that the blended sand as an alternative to improving in the economical use of natural sand by producing sand design mix These findings have practical implications for the construction industry in Western Kenya, where the choice of sand source directly influences the quality and performance of concrete structures. This research contributes to the ongoing efforts to optimize construction materials in the region, ultimately enhancing the sustainability and resilience of building projects. It further contributes to the mapping of sand sources and their attributes that can be used by the counties in western Kenya. It would add to the knowledge base of the practitioners in the effective use of sand.