Sand is one of the most widely used construction materials and a key ingredient in concrete. Traditionally, natural river sand was used widely in the construction industry due to its easy availability and low cost. However, uncontrolled mining activities have dried up many river beds and disrupted natural habitats. The excessive demand for sand coupled with insufficient supply due to regulations has significantly increased procurement costs of natural sand. Meanwhile, environmental concerns have made it necessary to find ecologically friendly substitutes. This has compelled the construction industry to shift towards more sustainable alternatives like artificial or manufactured sand. As the artificial crushed sand supplier in Palghar, Adhikari Projects understands the need to shift from natural sand to artificial sand. In this blog, we will discuss why is artificial sand the choice of modern builders. But, first, let’s understand artificial sand in brief.
What is Artificial Sand?
Artificial sand is a construction material alternative to natural river sand. It is manufactured by crushing strong granite or basalt rock into fine grains in a quarry or dedicated production facility. The boulders or rubble are first reduced to smaller pieces by compressive crushers like jaws or cone crushers. Further classification is done using screens to divide material by ISO gradations for different sizes. The fractions are washed to remove dust and are dried. This manufacturing process allows tight control over sand particle size, shape, texture and grading. The cubical and angular grains of artificial sand provide better compaction and strength in concrete construction applications as compared to the round grains of natural river sand excavated from riverbeds. It closely resembles natural sand in its physical properties like particle size, shape, and distribution. However, it has some distinct advantages over natural sand that have made it the preferred choice for many builders.
Key Advantages of Using Artificial Sand For Modern Builders
Consistent Quality
The quality of artificial sand is consistent throughout as the production process can effectively control parameters like particle size, shape, distribution etc. This makes it suitable for all concrete applications. On the other hand, the quality of natural sand varies significantly based on source.
Durability
Due to mechanical crushing, artificial sand particles get an angular and more durable shape compared to the rounded and worn-out particles of natural sand. This interlocking effect improves the strength and durability of concrete.
Workability
The cubical and flaky textured particles of artificial sand allow for better packing and flow. This enhances the workability of concrete mixes without requiring extra water.
Strength
The higher fines and dust content in natural sand can be detrimental to the strength of concrete. In contrast, artificial sand has controlled grading and negligible impurities, resulting in higher compressive strength.
Readily available
While natural sand sources are depleting, artificial sand can be produced on-site or nearby as per the project requirements. This ensures just-in-time delivery and availability.
Cost Effective
Though the initial set-up cost for artificial sand production may be high, the operating cost is lower compared to natural sand due to transportation savings. It offers a sustainable and economical building materials supplier in Palghar.
Environment Friendly
The use of artificial sand eliminates damaging environmental effects of river sand mining like soil erosion, depletion of groundwater levels, loss of habitats etc. It is a more eco-friendly substitute.
Say Yes To Sustainable Construction with Artificial Sand
With rapid urbanization and infrastructure growth spurring the demand for sand, artificial or manufactured sand has become inevitable to sustain construction needs. Modern builders prefer it for its consistent quality, high strength, workability, availability and environmental friendliness. Consider placing a bulk order for artificial sand from Adhikari Projects. We have a mechanized and sophisticated manufacturing plant near Boisar that can meet large volume requirements for your upcoming projects. Our sand is a premium quality material with consistent gradation. As a leading manufactured crushed sand supplier in Palghar, Adhikari Projects can ensure timely deliveries as per your construction schedule through our fleet of transit mixers. So, feel free to get in touch with us to discuss your artificial sand needs. We are here to help you make sustainable construction choices!