Synthesis of Artificial Aggregates and the Analysis of Their Suitability for Various Applications

Mining and quarrying of natural aggregates which are prerequisites for every construction activity is depleting the natural resources and deteriorating the environment. Degradation of the soil is occurring due to the huge accumulation of solid wastes from industries. Safe disposal and management of these wastes is the prime challenge of the hour. Artificial aggregates are synthesized in the laboratory by the cold bond pelletisation process using Fly-ash, Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag, Ordinary Portland cement, Poly Vinyl Acetate solution, Lathe waste and Ceramics. Aggregate tests were conducted as specified in IS: 2386 and were found to be satisfactory with a replacement by a certain percentage by weight of natural aggregates of same particle size range. Aggregates were light weight and showed less affinity to water. An experimental study was conducted to develop Fast Track concrete mix with these aggregates. A concrete overlay on a flexible pavement is laid to make a patchwork, Vehicular traffic resumed after 5 hours and the patchwork was found to set well and hard. Development of skid resistance, drainage, durability and compatibility studies are yet to be conducted. Canal lining and applicability of these aggregates as railway ballast is the future scope of our study.