Material |
Fine granular particles of rock, mainly silica (quartz) |
Particle Size Range |
0.075 mm to 4.75 mm (as per IS: 383 classification for fine aggregates) |
Specific Gravity |
2.6 to 2.7 (typical for quartz-based sand) |
Bulk Density |
1,450 to 1,650 kg/m³ (loose to moderately compacted condition) |
Fineness Modulus |
2.2 to 3.2 (indicator of average grain size; varies with type) |
Water Absorption |
0.5% to 4% (depending on cleanliness and grain type) |
Moisture Content |
2% to 6% (natural moisture content can vary) |
Silt Content |
Should not exceed 8% (preferably <3% for high-quality construction) |
Clay & Dust Content |
Should be minimal; <3% (affects bonding in cement) |
Shape of Particles |
Rounded to angular (natural sand); more angular in manufactured sand (M-sand) |
Texture |
Rough to smooth, depending on source |
Hardness |
High (Mohs hardness of quartz is 7) |
Color |
Light brown, yellowish, grey, or white (depends on mineral content) |