Looking for a source on pea gravel 1

[efarri1]

As title say, I'm looking for a source on pea gravel and whether or not I can obtain a compression strength in concrete of 3000 psi using pea gravel without any side effects. Or if I can't, some type of chart/graph showing me what my maximum compression value is in relation to the days of age. TIA for the help.​

 

[Brandon]

I would start with my local ready-mix plant, and ask them for strength histories on mixes using pea gravel (which is essentially aggregate smaller than 3/8" as I understand it, or an AASHTO #8 size). I think this is not an uncommon mix.

 

[BadgerPE]

Our local provider has what is called a "chip" mix which is essentially pea gravel sized aggregate. They provided a 4,000 psi mix for an ICF wall project that we had.

 

[Ron]

Yes, you can get 3000 psi compressive strength from "pea gravel" concrete. Pea gravel is not a defined aggregate size, but is considered smaller than No. 89 stone. You cannot produce a mix with pea gravel without "side effects", however.

The most prominent side effect is that your cement content will be increased as will your water content. The smaller aggregate size creates more aggregate surface area that must be covered by the cement paste. This requires more cement and correspondingly, more water. The result is higher shrinkage and more cracking potential.

 

[cvg]

shotcrete is commonly produced from pea gravel with a very low w/c ratio, it can be very high strength with limited shrinkage

 

[JLNJ]

When I think of pea gravel I picture a kind of smooth "washed" river stone. Most crushed limestone seem to me to be rather angular.

I have often wondered myself if the non-angular nature of this "pea gravel" aggregate has any ill effect on the concrete.

 

[jayrod12]

I would think you would have a decreased aggregate interlock for obvious reasons however they can still provide strong concrete mixes using the pea-gravel.

 

[cvg]

workability of concrete made with rounded aggregate may actually be better than with angular which can sometimes result in a harsh mix.