Exploration of Natural Aggregates for a Sustainable Construction Industry in Western Colombia

Abstract

The sources of aggregates for construction materials in the area surrounding Medellín, Western Colombia, are experiencing a significant decrease due to the depletion of their resources and reserves and the policies of land use in territorial planning. The objective of this study is to identify and assess the potential sources of aggregates for the construction industry in Medellín. A lithological characterization is made in the field and laboratory tests are performed to determine the physical and chemical behaviour of the rocks in the lithostratigraphic units. The study allowed us to define the properties and quality of rocks and to map sand and gravel in unconsolidated deposits in the weathering zone of granitic rocks and in stratified rocks. The results allowed us to define the preliminary physical and chemical quality of these rocks and assess their potential as raw material for use in the construction industry. This work constitutes a tool for civil and mining authorities in making decisions on land-use policies and the proper use of resources in the face of the growth and demand requirements of these materials.