Demographic Based Survey on the Use of Abuja River Sand as Fine Aggregate for Concreting

Nigeria is one of the first 10 most populous countries of the world and it has been predicted that Nigeria population will surpass USA by 2050. Also, Abuja population is projected to reach 13,104,023 by 2030 based on the 2017 NBS growth rate and the estimated population released in the year 2018. This boom in population will translate to lots of infrastructural developments (highway, industries, housing estates construction etc.) especially in Abuja being the Federal Capital Territory. This article investigates the demographic and usability characteristics of some fine aggregates available around Abuja, as well as the results of index and physical properties of these fine aggregates. The concrete compressive strength test conducted by the respondent on concrete produced using different fine aggregate around Abuja is also reported. The survey shows that, 56%, 25% and 19% of 16 respondents that conducted test on the concrete produced from Abuja river sands passed, failed and some passed the designed strength respectively, Although, the responses indicates that, majority of construction personnel do not carry out test on the concrete materials use and concrete produced from it. Also, the cost of Abuja river sand was found to be the cheapest among others (quarry sand and sand from other state) use for Abuja construction.