Aggregates from Akoon Village, Nusalaut District, as Materials for Normal Concrete Mixes

Abstract

The use of local aggregates can improve the availability of construction materials in island regions, but their suitability requires evaluation of material characteristics and concrete performance. This study aimed to evaluate aggregates from Akoon Village, Nusalaut District, their effect on fresh concrete consistency, and the compressive strength development of normal concrete. A laboratory experiment was conducted involving aggregate characterization, mix design based on SNI 03-2834-2000, slump testing, and compressive strength testing of nine cylindrical specimens at 7, 14, and 28 days, with three specimens tested at each age. Data were analyzed descriptively using means, sample standard deviations, and coefficients of variation. The results showed that the fine aggregate belonged to grading Zone II, with a fineness modulus of 2.41, while the coarse aggregate had a fineness modulus of 6.80. The specific gravities of the fine and coarse aggregates were 2.60 and 2.72, respectively, with water absorption values of 2.10% and 1.45%. Their fines contents were 3.30% and 3.13%, respectively. The measured slump was 79 mm, within the target range of 60–180 mm. Mean compressive strengths at 7, 14, and 28 days were 17.20, 19.03, and 21.33 MPa, respectively. The 28-day mean numerically exceeded the specified compressive strength of 20.75 MPa. These findings indicate the potential of Akoon aggregates for normal concrete production, subject to complete aggregate characterization and evaluation against concrete acceptance criteria.

Keywords: local aggregates, Akoon Village, normal concrete, aggregate characteristics, compressive strength.