A Study on the Suitability of Crushed Sandstone around Adigrat (Ethiopia) for Hollow Concrete Block Production

This study targets to assess the feasibility of using crushed sandstone in and around Adigrat as a sand replacement material in hollow concrete block. The study was conducted by taking samples from three types of sandstone, categorized based on their colour as white, red and light red. The physical and chemical properties of the sandstone were studied. The sandstone was then used to prepare sample blocks which were then tested for density and compressive strength. The test results on the blocks showed that the blocks manufactured using sandstone as a replacement of construction sand, have all the strength and density requirements specified in ES 596:2001, at least as a non-load bearing wall making material. From the three sandstone categories, the white sandstone has produced the best results with relatively higher compressive strength and density. It can be concluded from the study that the crushed sandstone around Adigrat can be readily used as a replacement for sand in hollow concrete block, as far as the production procedures in this study are followed. The sandstone may also serve as a sand replacement in concrete production with further study on it. Commercial sand production from the sandstone could also be taken as a potential solution for sand shortage with further study on cost feasibility