What Are Construction Aggregates?

Construction aggregates, or simply aggregates are quite literally the building block of our industrialized society. Aggregates are the most fundamental material used in construction generally composed of sand, cement, and crushed stone. Aggregates are the most mined materials in the world.

What is Construction Aggregate used for?

Construction aggregate is used in virtually all infrastructure including homes, roads, schools, and hospitals. It is the main component in both concrete and asphalt, which all modern heavy construction relies on as their key building ingredients. Aggregates account for up to 90% of asphalt pavement and up to 80% of a concrete mix. On average, 38,000 tons of aggregates are necessary to construct one lane mile of interstate highway. Construction of the average home requires 400 tons of aggregate, while the average size school or hospital requires 15,000 tons.

What is Limestone Aggregate?

Limestone aggregate is essentially crushed limestone. It is usually gray rock (but color can vary) consisting of at least 50% calcite. The texture can be coarse to very-fine grained. Whole fossils or fossil fragments are typically present in the limestone. Why is Limestone Aggregate better? Crushed limestone aggregates are 10% higher in strength compared to traditional gravels. Limestone aggregates are also lighter, easier to cut, less likely to crack and less likely to expand or contract.