Assessment of Opinion and Awareness of the Construction Industry on Suitability of M Sand as a Replacement to River Sand

Abstract

Fine aggregates are an essential raw material required for concrete production. Majority of the fine aggregate demand is supplied through natural river sand. However, river sand mining is not sustainable in the long run and impacts the environment severely. A more sustainable and cost-effective replacement to river sand should be adopted quickly. Manufactured sand or M sand is a promising alternative to river sand. The suitability of M sand as a replacement to river sand and the opinions and perspective of the construction industry were assessed by doing a comprehensive literature review and collecting data from industry professionals through a questionnaire. The questionnaire was assessed under their categories such as performance, economy, environmental and general. Respondents were also asked to grade their presumed knowledge on each category being assessed, in order to evaluate the validity of individual opinions. The results indicated that the opinion of construction industry professional’s regarding M sand on economic and environmental aspects are similar to the findings of the literature. However, the professionals opinions regarding performance aspects of M sand was mostly mixed and contradicts with literature findings. Professionals who rated their knowledge highest had different opinions about M sand indicating the presence of severe misconceptions and inadequate knowledge within the industry. To overcome this, industry professional’s knowledge on M sand should be raised by providing accurate information about M sand and its benefits. Furthermore, the industry professional’s opinions acknowledged that M sand is being currently underused within the industry. They were confident that in future, M sand use would increase drastically.