Abdeldjalil, Mhammed , Akacem, Mustapha
2026 MATERIA-RIO DE JANEIRO 2026 31(卷), null(期), (null页)
The use of natural aggregates, particularly natural fine aggregate (NFA), in construction has been extensively studied; however, there remains a need for accurate and comprehensive characterization to understand the limits of their use in engineering materials fully. Our study examined numerous natural fine aggregate sites in desert areas and their use in concrete. The problem lies in identifying the types and varieties of fine aggregate over an area of more than 800 kilometers. The goal is to identify them by their physical, chemical, and mechanical properties. Based on extensive testing, the results showed that all of the natural aggregates studied were classified as very fine and clean aggregates. Chemical results then showed that these fine aggregates (FA) have a siliceous composition. The silica content reaches 98%. This confirms its potential for use as a construction aggregate. In addition, the grain distribution is asymmetrical, using the "fractal dimension" property. This encourages us to study this fine aggregate closely for use in concrete mixes and to work on using other types to correct it in terms of coarse grains. The preliminary results of natural fine aggregate (NFA) corrected with crushed fine aggregate (CFA) are very acceptable compared to using crushed fine aggregate alone.