Abstract:
Concrete is one of the most commonly used construction material, and it is constituted of aggregates that cover the most part of it. From aggregates, approximately 40% of the volume of concrete is occupied by fine aggregate. In Ethiopia, most of the time natural fine aggregates are used. The existence of fine aggregate naturally exposes to variability. Therefore, to minimize the inconsistency of the sand improvisation is important. The objective of the study was to investigate the production possibility of improvised natural river sand in Bahir Dar and its environs. In order to meet the objectives interview, observation, desk study, and laboratory tests were employed. River sands were selected from Gumara, Rib, Adiss Zemen and Arno by focused on large potential and proximity to the city. Physical properties of four River sand were checked. The result from thus sources failed to fulfill limits of standard. Based on the physical property result the sand was improvised and concrete compressive test result was evaluated. Test results showed that concrete produced by improvised sand results has higher value than the non-improvised concrete mix. The cost comparison of concrete produced with and without improvisation conducted, cost of sand was reduced for improvised sand. Demand and supply of sand for coming years also forecasted. The supply of sand is higher than the demand forecasted. The current practice of sand production was assessed and environmental impacts were evaluated and compared with the standards. The production of fine aggregate on the selected sand sources was practiced in out dated mode of delivery, it didn’t meet criteria with respect to production process, quality, environmental impact concerns. Finally, conclusions and recommendations are drawn and forwarded based on the finding of the study, discussion, analysis, and reviewed literature.