In recent years, the construction industry has faced growing pressure to adopt more sustainable practices amid escalating environmental concerns. One of the most prominent issues is the extensive use of river sand as a fine aggregate in concrete production. As river sand becomes increasingly scarce and its extraction leads to significant ecological damage, researchers are exploring alternative materials for concrete formulations. A recent critical review by Sanusi et al. shines a light on the innovative sustainable fine aggregates that can be utilized in place of traditional river sand, outlining both the potential benefits and the challenges associated with these emerging materials.
Concrete is the most widely used construction material globally, and its primary constituent, sand, plays a crucial role in determining the material’s final properties. Traditional river sand, while favored for its physical characteristics, poses environmental risks, including habitat destruction and increased edge erosion. The alarming rate at which river sand is being extracted could lead to a depletion of essential aquatic ecosystems. In light of these challenges, researchers are advocating for a paradigm shift towards sustainable alternatives that do not compromise the structural integrity of concrete.
Emerging sustainable fine aggregate materials such as recycled concrete aggregates, industrial by-products like blast furnace slag, and naturally occurring alternatives like crushed granite and quarry dust are gaining recognition. Each of these materials presents unique advantages and disadvantages, particularly in how they influence the performance characteristics of concrete, including workability, strength, and durability. This review details the physical and chemical properties of these alternatives and how they can be optimized for specific concrete applications.
Recycled concrete aggregates, derived from the crushing of unused or demolished concrete, offer a promising solution. They not only mitigate environmental impacts but also contribute to resource conservation. By reintroducing waste into the production cycle, this practice aligns closely with circular economy principles. The review reveals that despite some challenges in achieving optimal particle size and gradation, advances in processing technologies have made recycled aggregates increasingly viable for mainstream concrete applications.
Another interesting avenue explored is the use of industrial by-products, such as fly ash and slag. These materials often have pozzolanic properties, which not only enhance the strength of concrete but also improve its resistance to aggressive environmental conditions. The review examines numerous studies highlighting the successful partial replacement of river sand with these by-products, showing comparable or even superior performance in many cases. Their use can also help reduce the carbon footprint associated with concrete production, making them an environmentally sound choice.
Crushed stone materials like granite and quarry dust have also been reviewed as potential substitutes for river sand. When processed correctly, these aggregates can closely mimic the physical characteristics of natural sand, allowing for similar workability and aesthetic properties. However, the review emphasizes the need for careful consideration of sourcing and processing methods to ensure the aggregates do not introduce detrimental impurities.
Moreover, the review discusses the importance of optimizing the design of concrete mixtures to leverage the unique properties of these sustainable aggregates effectively. The balance between preserving workability and achieving targeted strength performance without the use of river sand necessitates a nuanced understanding of mix design principles. Advanced modeling and simulation techniques may assist engineers in creating innovative mixtures that utilize alternative materials without sacrificing quality.
Significantly, the review also sheds light on the social and economic dimensions of replacing river sand in concrete production. The transition to sustainable fine aggregates can create new markets and job opportunities within communities, especially in regions facing scarcity of natural resources. It emphasizes that it is not only an environmental imperative but also a social opportunity, where local economies can thrive by harnessing available materials and innovative sourcing strategies.
In conclusion, the research conducted by Sanusi et al. serves as a thorough examination of potential sustainable fine aggregates that can effectively replace river sand in concrete. By adopting these alternatives, the construction industry has the opportunity to lessen its environmental impact significantly while also ensuring the durability and performance of its products. The insights provided in this review highlight that while challenges do exist, the drive towards sustainability can catalyze innovations that benefit both the construction industry and the environment.
As stakeholders continue to explore and implement such sustainable options, further research will be essential to refine processing techniques, optimize material properties, and ultimately build a more sustainable future in construction practices. With the right guidance and commitment from industry players, the dream of environmentally-friendly concrete may soon be a widespread reality, paving the way for a greener, more sustainable built environment.
Subject of Research: Sustainable Concrete Aggregates
Article Title: Replacing river sand in concrete: a review of emerging sustainable fine aggregate materials
Article References:
Sanusi, A., Ndububa, E.E., Amuda, A.G. et al. Replacing river sand in concrete: a review of emerging sustainable fine aggregate materials.
Discov Sustain (2026). https://doi.org/10.1007/s43621-026-02686-z
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI: 10.1007/s43621-026-02686-z
Keywords: Sustainable aggregates, river sand, concrete, environmental impact, recycled materials, industrial by-products, construction practices.
