Suitability Study of Locally Available Granitic Rocks Aggregate For Roads Construction in District Dir

Abstract

A considerable amount of aggregates are acquired from rocks and natural gravel that are widely utilized in the construction of road infrastructures after crushing them into desired size. District Dir is rich with granitic rocks and easily accessible to extract for construction purpose but lack in usage of locally available rock aggregates for roads construction makes the projects delay and cost overrun. The aim of this study is to check the suitability of this locally available granitic rocks aggregate for road construction through proper laboratory testing and comparative analysis with other standard aggregates. Its reliability is measured on these standard engineering parameters including Loss Angeles Abrasion Test, Aggregate impact value, Aggregate crushing value, water absorption, specific gravity, soundness, flakiness index, and elongation value. After finding physical properties, HMA samples were prepared for further performance evaluation tests. These tests were performed to measure its resistance to rutting and moisture damage. According to test findings all the results of test are within the acceptable limits of agencies (ASTM ASHTOO BS). Whereas, the specimen prepared from Dir granitic rocks aggregates showed 24% less resistance to rutting than Margallah aggregate sample. Additionally, a cost comparison analysis reveals that Dir aggregate is 10% more affordable than aggregate acquired from Margallah. Any project's overall cost may be reduced by using local aggregate as construction material, and it can also significantly improve the socioeconomic well-being of the local populations.