Inspection of the mechanical and durability behavior of concrete developed using M-sand

Abstract

Growing global demand for river sand (R-sand), especially in India, is unsustainable, consuming 32-50 billion tonnes annually for concrete. This overuse threatens supply. R-sand extraction harms the environment and infrastructure. In response, M-Sand is a popular, consistent, and legal alternative. When using unwashed M-Sand, be aware of potential higher fines content, requiring more water for workability. Replacing R-sand with M-Sand enhances overall strength and performance of concrete. Manufacturing sand (M-Sand) also outperforms R-sand in terms of strength, with particle shape and texture less influential than stone powder (SP) and clay content. Choosing the right application can optimize M-Sand performance in concrete. *Author for correspondenceIn the realm of construction materials, the amalgamation of aggregates bound by cementitious paste has granted concrete unparalleled versatility, strength, and durability. This compels concrete to emerge as the paramount choice for construction endeavors [1,2]. The expanding urban landscapes worldwide have triggered a surge in construction activities, consequently driving the demand for cement to unprecedented heights. Projections made in 2016 forecasted a robust annual growth rate of 5.2%, catapulting the global cement market to an astounding 51.7 billion tons [3,4]. This escalating construction fervor has escalated the necessity for sand, a pivotal component in concrete manufacturing [5]. The conventional choice of natural R-sand as a fine aggregate has encountered challenges due to its depleting availability and soaring costs [6,7]. In response, manufactured sand has gained prominence as a promising alternative. Characterized by its finer particles that adeptly fill microscopic concrete pores,