<p>The selection of fine aggregates plays a crucial role in ensuring the durability and longevity of civil structures, especially in geologically sensitive areas such as the Agreste and Sertão regions of Pernambuco. This study offers a comparative literature review between natural sand and industrial sand, highlighting their technical characteristics and regional implications, with a particular focus on bridges and viaducts. In areas marked by geological faults, commonly found in the study region, amorphous aggregates tend to occur more frequently. These materials can compromise the mechanical and structural integrity of buildings, contributing to problems such as cracking, moisture infiltration, corrosion of reinforcement, and concrete deterioration. Natural sand is often chosen for its wide availability, but it can vary in grain size, contain unfavorable impurities, and become highly reactive when extracted near fault zones. In contrast, industrial sand, manufactured under strict quality control, emerges as a more stable and technically advantageous alternative. Although the adoption of industrial sand may involve higher costs and adjustments to the concrete mix design, evidence suggests that it substantially improves the resilience and conservation of civil works, particularly in regions where geology directly influences the performance of the material. In addition, analytical techniques such as X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) are essential in identifying and evaluating harmful chemical components in aggregates. These tools aid in early diagnosis and prevention of structural deterioration. Finally, this literature review highlights the importance of selecting the right type of aggregate, not only to mitigate potential harmful effects, but also to extend the functional life of infrastructure built on geologically unstable soil.</p>