Sustainable Construction: Implementing Machine-Made Sand in Concrete Mix Designs

Abstract

As the global demand for construction materials escalates, the sustainability of traditional resources like natural river sand is becoming increasingly untenable. This research paper investigates the feasibility and environmental benefits of substituting natural sand with machine-made sand in concrete mix designs. Machine-made sand, produced by crushing rocks, quarry stones, or larger aggregate pieces, presents a viable alternative that can help mitigate the depletion of natural sand reserves. This study assesses the mechanical properties, durability, and lifecycle costs of concrete made with machine-made sand, comparing these attributes to those of conventional concrete mixes. Laboratory tests reveal that concrete utilizing machine-made sand exhibits comparable strength and durability while substantially reducing the ecological footprint of construction activities. The paper also explores the implications of widespread adoption of machine-made sand in the construction industry, including the potential for significant reductions in unsustainable extraction practices and enhancements in material efficiency.