Mechanical Characteristics Of Aggregate Resources From Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Abstract

Aggregate resources act as a backbone for the infrastructure and serve as an essential component in the concrete, asphalt and have multiple construction applications. Their availability and low cost make them crucial for economic growth and development. In this regard the research has been conducted on the Kashala formation, Kamila amphibolites, Marghazar formation and NakaniGhar formation that are exposed in Swat area and an attempt is made to evaluate their physio-mechanical properties that have great value in assessing the aggregate suitability for its application in any project. To assess the physio-mechanical properties, gradation analysis, The relevant ASTM and AASHTO standards were followed when conducting the Los Angeles abrasion test, crushing value test, impact value test, flakiness and elongation test, soundness test, specific gravity test, and water absorption test. Key findings showed that while abrasion resistance varied, all formations showed good resistance to weathering. The Kashala Formation had the maximum abrasion loss, while the Kamila amphibolite displayed the lowest. Kamila amphibolite exhibited the best flakiness and elongation, while Marghazar Formation displayed the least desirable values. Except for the Marghazar Formation, which showed a higher susceptibility to fracturing, impact resistance was generally good. Most of the particles in all the formations were fine, and their crushing resistance was moderate. The suitability of a formation for a given application will rely on the project requirements. For applications requiring high abrasion resistance and where flakiness and elongation are crucial, Kamila formation might be preferred. In such cases, Marghazar Formation may be less appropriate. To guarantee optimal performance, the predominance of fine particles in all formations must be considered while designing concrete or asphalt mixes. This thesis can help choose the right aggregates for building projects by offering insightful information about the characteristics of these rock formations.