Applications

The aim of this chapter is to review the main applications of aggregates in construction. Aggregates can be used as a construction material in two large types of applications: unbound applications (the aggregate is not bound) and bound applications (mixes containing binding agents such as cement or bitumen). The largest proportion of aggregates is used to manufacture concrete, which is the most widely used building material in the construction industry. Aggregates constitute, in percentages greater than 90%, most of the layers of road surfaces. They are the principal material in pavement construction. One of the most demanding applications for crushed aggregate is railway ballast. Armourstone consists of coarse aggregates utilized in hydraulic structures and other engineering works. Gabion is a robust structure comprizing a double-twist wire-mesh basket filled with hard, durable stone. It performs a great variety of functions within coastal, estuarial, and fluvial environments. Drainage and filter aggregates are sand, gravel, or crushed stone or mixtures thereof. They play essential roles in many engineering projects. Finally, decorative/ornamental aggregates can be used in a wide variety of spaces such as commercial and residential spaces, domestic pathways, driveways, car parks, architectural landscaping, gardening (patios and rockeries), sports grounds, etc.