COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF CONCRETE USING CHIPPINGS FROM QUARRY AND LOCAL STONES FROM OJI RIVER (AKPUGO, ENUGU STATE), NIGERIA

This project investigates the compressive strength performance of concrete made using quarry chippings and local river stones as coarse aggregates, with the aim of assessing their suitability for construction in Nigeria. With rising demand for affordable construction materials, especially in rural and semi-urban areas, evaluating alternative aggregate sources is vital for sustainable building practices. Concrete mixes were prepared using a 1:2:4 mix ratio with a water-cement ratio of 0.5. Both fine and coarse aggregates were tested for particle size distribution through sieve analysis, and slump tests were conducted to assess workability. Concrete cubes (150mm³) were cast and tested for compressive strength after 7, 14, and 28 days of curing. The results showed that concrete made with quarry chippings (Batch A) had better workability (30 mm slump) and higher compressive strength at all ages: 7.70 N/mm² (7 days), 12.59 N/mm² (14 days), and 15.90 N/mm² (28 days). Concrete made with local river stones (Batch B) recorded slightly lower values: 7.41 N/mm², 12.44 N/mm², and 15.00 N/mm² respectively. Both mixes had comparable densities, indicating consistency in batching and curing. The result suggests that while quarry chippings are preferable for structural elements due to better strength and workability, local river stones can be effectively used for non-structural or lightly loaded applications, especially where cost or availability is a concern. The study recommends the use of admixtures to improve the performance of concrete made with local stones and encourages the adoption of sustainable materials for cost effective construction.