Published Online:January 2026
Product Name:The IUP Journal of Structural Engineering
Product Type:Article
Product Code:IJSE090126
DOI:10.71329/IUPJSE/2026.19.1.121-133
Author Name:Subhash V Patankar, Ullas M Paranjape, Dnyaneshver D More, Valmik M Mahajan, and Arti S Patankar
Availability:YES
Subject/Domain:Engineering
Download Format:PDF
Pages:121-133
The paper explores the potential of bottom ash and grit, along with crushed sand, as replacement for natural river sand in mortar. The materials are evaluated based on grading, water absorption, specific gravity, void content, and bulk density. Experimental validation is carried out using cement-mortar 1:3 with water-to-binder ratio of 0.40, with natural sand replaced by crushed sand and combinations of bottom ash and grit. The performance is assessed in terms of workability and compressive strength. The results demonstrate that natural river sand can be entirely substituted with suitable proportions of bottom ash and grit conforming to grading zone II, without adversely affecting mortar quality. These combinations were best applicable in ferrocement technology where bonding properties of matrix play-a vital role in making thin section without honeycombing. An experimental 500 liter-capacity ferrocement water tank was also prepared using natural river sand and combination of bottom ash, and grit as fine aggregate.
Concrete/mortar is economical and most suitable for all types of construction activities.