Comparison of the Compressive Strength of Concrete Produced using Sand from Different Sources

Abstract

Mortar is a mixture of cement and sand in some specified proportion which is generally used for brick masonry and plastering. In first case of the mortar compressive loads such as the load of the wall above it, therefore it is very much necessary to test the mortar for its compressive strength. This paper discusses the variation of cement mortar compressive strength after3, 7, 14, 28 days with different types of sand (Local sand, Sylhet sand, ASTM Standard Graded sand). In the experiment, 48 cubical specimens of 2 inch by 2 inch were tested to identify the compressive strength of cement mortar using Universal Testing Machine (UTM). In this experiment we also used some process to increase the strength of mortar cylinder, there is curing process. Curing process must be followed to achieve desired concrete properties. Curing is necessary to ensure that the concrete will have sufficient moisture available to develop required properties. The results show that the compressive strength of cement mortar of ASTM Standard Graded sand is higher than that of the Sylhet or local sand. The difference in compressive strength of cement mortar tends to be greater as the difference in sand fineness increases. The results show that the compressive strength of cement mortar of ASTM standard graded sand is higher than that of the Sylhet or local sand. The strength of Ottawa cement mortar in 3 days is about 55% higher than local sand, in 7 days it is about 48%, in 14 days it is about 30% and in 28 days it is about 23% higher than local sand.