Abstract:
A physical characterization study was carried out on the Mansehra Granite from the Mansehra area to explore its utilization as construction materials. To increase the durability and strength of the construction materials, plastic was used as a coating on the Mansehra Granite aggregates. The plastic coating was added in proportions of 9% to 15%, by weight (shown in Table 4.14, 4.15, and 4.16) to the Mansehra Granite aggregates. Laboratory tests were conducted on the plastic-coated samples, which revealed specific gravity values of 2.70, 2.80, and 2.77 for the proportions of 0%, 9%, and 15%, respectively. Water absorption values were 0.35%, 0.02%, and 0.02%, respectively. Aggregate Impact values were 18.30%, 7.37%, and 9.60%, respectively, while Aggregate Crushing values were 13.78%, 6.29%, and 7.73%, respectively. Flakiness and Elongation Index values were 7.61%, 7.46%, and 7.48%, and 6.32%, 5.90%, and 5.86%, respectively. Los Angeles abrasion values were 27.44%, 15.62%, and 18.97%, respectively. Marshall Stability test values were 2202.81 psi, 3149.38 psi, and 3195.25 psi, respectively. Penetration test values were 65.58 mm, 50.50 mm, and 53.75 mm, respectively. Softening Point test values were 47.38°C, 58.50°C, and 53.63°C, respectively. Sulphate Soundness test values were 2.73%, 1.01%, and 0.69%, respectively the values of these parameters were compared with the ASTM and BS standards, which indicate that Mansehra Granite can be a potential source for dimension stone, road, and concrete aggregate. The stripping test indicates the suitability of these rocks as aggregates for asphalt-wearing courses. However, plastic-coated samples proved more resistant to crushing, and therefore can contribute to enhancing the road life and performance. Mansehra Granite showed good physical resistance to crushing, which proves that it can be used for construction purposes.
