Sand can be classified into three types based on grain sizes, as coarse, medium and fine. The determination of these fractions is important since they affect the engineering characteristics and performance of sands as pavement layers in terms of plasticity, strength and bearing capacity. The shape of sand particles affects its density and stability and overall engineering behaviour. Smooth rounded particles would offer less resistance to rearrangement than angular or elongated particles with rough surfaces. Sea sand also tends to very fine and rounded. In sea water, chloride is present which will cause corrosion of steel and iron which ultimately leads to reducing carrying capacity of steel and iron, so that the structure built using this may not be sustainable.. Sea sand does not have high compressive strength, high tensile strength etc so it cannot be used in construction activities. In addition to this, the salt in sea sand tends to absorb moisture from atmosphere, bringing dampness.Sea sand tends to very fine and rounded, Smooth rounded particles would offer less resistance to rearrangement than angular or elongated particles with rough surfaces.
Advantages of Sea Sand
- Sea sand particles are rounded or cubical, same as river sand.
- Grading of the sea sand is finer than the river sand.
- It does not contain silt or organic materials.
- Readily available though they need to be cleaned.
- Material grading and its consistency are added benefits.
- Mining can be done at a reasonable cost.
- Countries having sea around can use this natural resource widely.
Disadvantages of Sea Sand
- Corrosion of reinforcements
- Cost and time for washing the sea sand
- Production may require larger capital investment
- Contained seashell
- Higher chloride content
