In the heart of Ghana’s bustling construction industry, a critical question has been raised: what kind of sand should you use to build your structures? Wahab Adamu, a researcher from the Applied Technology Department at Enyan Denkyira Senior High Technical School, has delved into this very issue, publishing his findings in the *Journal of Building Materials and Structures* (translated from English as “Journal of Building Materials and Structures”). His research, which focuses on the impact of different sand types on the strength and durability of sandcrete blocks, could reshape how builders and developers approach their projects.
Adamu’s study, which involved creating and testing 126 sandcrete block specimens using pit, river, and sea sand, has revealed significant differences in the performance of these materials. “The type of sand used in the production of sandcrete blocks greatly influences their strength and durability,” Adamu asserts. “This is crucial for the construction industry, as the integrity of our buildings depends on the quality of the materials we use.”
The results were clear: pit sand emerged as the top performer, with the highest compressive and tensile strength, as well as the lowest abrasion resistance and water absorption rate. This makes it the ideal choice for load-bearing structures. River sand, while not as strong as pit sand, offered a good balance of properties. However, its higher water absorption rate raises questions about its long-term durability. Sea sand, on the other hand, was the weakest performer, with the highest water absorption rate and the presence of harmful sulphates and chlorides that could compromise structural stability.
The commercial implications of these findings are substantial. For the energy sector, which often involves the construction of large, durable structures, the choice of sand could mean the difference between a long-lasting, efficient facility and a costly, short-lived one. “This study highlights the crucial significance of sand selection,” Adamu notes. “It offers insightful advice to legislators and construction experts, contributing to the long-term integrity of buildings in Ghana.”
The research also underscores the importance of quality control in the production of sandcrete blocks. As Adamu suggests, properly treating river and sea sand could enhance their qualities, making them more suitable for construction. This could open up new possibilities for builders, allowing them to use a wider range of materials while still ensuring the strength and durability of their structures.
In the end, Adamu’s research serves as a reminder that even the most seemingly mundane aspects of construction can have a significant impact on the quality and longevity of our buildings. As the construction industry continues to evolve, so too must our understanding of the materials we use. With studies like Adamu’s, we can look forward to a future where our buildings are not only taller and more impressive, but also stronger, safer, and more durable.