STUDY ON THE USE OF LATERITE AS A REPLACEMENT FOR SAND IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

Abstract

The construction industry heavily relies on sand as a fundamental ingredient in materials like concrete and mortar. However, the increasing demand for sand has raised environmental concerns due to unsustainable extraction practices. Addressing this issue, the study explores the potential of laterite as a sustainable alternative to sand in construction applications. Laterite, a naturally abundant material, has traditionally been used in construction, but its potential as a sand replacement remains underexplored. The main objective of this research is to evaluate the feasibility of using laterite to replace sand in the construction industry, with a focus on maintaining structural integrity and performance. The study aims to achieve three specific objectives: (1) to investigate the physical and mechanical properties of laterite, such as particle size distribution, workability, compaction, density, moisture content, permeability, and durability, through rigorous laboratory tests and experiments; (2) to evaluate the performance of laterite-based concrete in comparison to conventional sand-based concrete; and (3) to assess the feasibility of implementing laterite-based concrete in real-world construction applications. Findings from this research indicate that laterite possesses several comparable properties to sand, making it a viable alternative for use in concrete and mortar. The laboratory tests revealed that laterite-based concrete can achieve adequate strength and durability, similar to or better than traditional sand-based concrete. Furthermore, the use of laterite showed potential advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness and environmental sustainability, given its local availability and reduced impact on natural sand resources. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that laterite can be effectively utilized as a substitute for sand in the construction industry, offering a sustainable solution to the growing concerns over sand extraction. The implementation of laterite-based concrete could contribute to reducing environmental impacts and promoting sustainable building practices. It is recommended that future construction projects consider the use of laterite as an alternative material, supported by further research and development to optimize its application.