Role of Engineering Geology in Mining Aggregate, Building Stone: A Case Study of Sangjani Taxila, Limestone, Islamabad, Pakistan
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64862/ajeg.2025.2sp.94.230Keywords:
Margalla hill limestone, Aggregate quality, Physico-mechanical properties, Concrete performance, Taxila PakistanAbstract
To meet the growing demand for sustainable construction materials, the identification of high-quality aggregate reserves based on geological and economic parameters is essential. This study investigates the physico-mechanical and petrographic characteristics of Eocene Margalla Hill Limestone from Sangjani–Taxila to evaluate its suitability as a source of construction aggregates. Field mapping, systematic sampling, and laboratory tests following AASHTO and ASTM standards demonstrate that the limestone exhibits excellent engineering properties, meets international performance criteria, and poses no risk of alkali–silica or alkali–carbonate reactions. With extensive outcrops, favorable accessibility, and consistent lithology, the Margalla Hill Limestone represents a significant sustainable resource for future civil and mining projects.
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ASTM D2419-14. (2014). Standard test for sand equivalent value of soil and fine aggregate. ASTM International.
ASTM D4791-10. (2014). Standard test method for flat particles and elongated particles in coarse aggregate. ASTM International.
AASHTO T85. (2001). Specific gravity and absorption of coarse aggregate. AASHTO.
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Hassan, E., Hannan, A., Rashid, M., Ahmed, W., Zeb, M., Khan, S., Abbas, S., and Ahmad, A. (2020). Resource assessment of Sakesar limestone as aggregate from Salt Range, Pakistan based on geotechnical properties. International Journal of Hydrology, 4(1). https://doi.org/10.15406/ijh.2020.04.00222
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