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American Journal of  
Geospatial Technology (AJGT)

Properties Evaluation and Suitability Assessment for Construction Applications of  Sand 
of  Kirtankhola River in Bangladesh

Tarun Debnath1*, M. A. Rob1, Sanjoy Bhowal Pranta1, Md. Liton Rabbani1

Volume 3 Issue 1, Year 2024
ISSN: 2833-8006 (Online)

DOI: https://doi.org/10.54536/ajgt.v3i1.3178
https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajgt

Article Information ABSTRACT

Received: August 20, 2024

Accepted: September 24, 2024

Published: September 27, 2024

The availability of  high-quality construction materials is a critical factor in ensuring the dura-
bility and structural integrity of  construction projects. River sand is often considered a suit-
able material for construction due to its quality and performance characteristics when com-
bined with coarse aggregate and binding materials, such as cement in concrete. Additionally, 
the Kirtankhola River in Barishal, Bangladesh, is known to be a less polluted river. We have 
selected several locations along this river to collect sand samples for further study regarding 
this natural resource. This study focuses on the assessment of  river sand sourced from the 
Kirtankhola River, with a primary objective to evaluate its suitability for construction ap-
plications. The research employs a comprehensive approach, encompassing field sampling, 
laboratory testing, and analysis of  the physical and chemical properties of  the Kirtankhola 
river sand. Various tests, including gradation analysis, moisture content determination, fine-
ness modulus calculation, Particle size distribution curve, specific gravity measurement, Unit 
weight, Dry Density and assessment of  silt and clay content, are conducted to provide a 
thorough understanding of  the sand’s characteristics. The study also examines the potential 
presence of  organic impurities and assesses the chemical composition of  the river sand. 
Local construction standards and guidelines are taken into account to establish whether the 
Kirtankhola River sand meets the necessary specifications for use in concrete and mortar. 
The findings from this research aim to provide valuable insights for construction profession-
als and decision-makers, aiding in responsible sourcing and usage of  construction materials 
while ensuring the quality and performance of  construction projects in the region.

Keywords
River Sand, Kirtankhola River, 
Physical and Chemical Properties, 
Construction Materials

1 Barishal Engineering College, Bangladesh
* Corresponding author’s e-mail: tarundebnath75@gmail.com

INTRODUCTION 
Sand, a fundamental component of  concrete is a crucial 
ingredient in construction, acting like the “glue” that 
holds structures together. The Kirtankhola River could be 
a valuable source of  construction sand. (Rahman, 2013) 
(Islam, 2014) (Siddique, 2016) To ensure sustainable and 
reliable construction practices, it’s essential to understand 
the quality of  sand from this river. This study aims 
to thoroughly evaluate the quality and suitability for 
construction applications. (Hussain, 2015) (Chowdhury, 
2017) As the demand for construction materials rises, 
assessing the potential of  local resources becomes 
imperative. (Fahad et al., 2021)Soil analysis in Barisal City 
Corporation shows 68.43% sand and 31.65% silt and clay, 
indicating suitability for high-rise construction. (Rabbani 
et al., 2023)Brick kilns significantly reduce organic 
matter and nutrients in the soil, with burnt soil showing 
lower OM (0.51%) and nutrients but higher pH and 
EC compared to unburned soil, indicating deteriorated 
soil quality. (Debnath et al., 2023) The suitability of  
Kirtankhola River water for irrigation is determined by 
chemical composition and physical parameters, which 
are generally within standard limits, though nitrate and 
ammonia levels require government action to control 
industrial effluents. By focusing on Kirtankhola River 
sand, this research seeks to provide valuable insights 
into its availability and adequacy for construction in the 
Barishal region. (Rahman, 2013)  (Siddique, 2016) (Robiul 

Hasan, 2019) The study analyzed various properties 
of  Kirtankhola River sand whose findings is valuable 
for construction projects in the region. However, it’s 
important to acknowledge certain limitations, such as 
potential sand quality variations across different river 
locations. When we build houses, bridges or roads, the 
quality of  materials especially river sand is crucial for 
strength, durability, and workability. Imagine living near 
the Kirtankhola River, it’s not just a waterway but a 
potential source of  sand for building. Before using the 
sand, this study will closely examine its quality to ensure 
it meets construction standards in the area. Construction 
is booming and the demand for good-quality materials 
like sand keeps growing. By studying Kirtankhola River 
sand, we can determine if  it meets the standards needed 
for building strong and safe structures in this community. 
It’s like checking if  the ingredients we have are right for a 
recipe – in this case, the recipe for sturdy buildings. With 
its well-graded particle size distribution, round shape, 
and natural composition, river sand has been favored for 
construction. (Robiul Hasan, 2019)  However, increasing 
demand, environmental concerns, and sand mining 
restrictions prompt a thorough assessment of  alternative 
sources, including local river sands like those from the 
Kirtankhola River. The Kirtankhola River, situated in the 
Barishal region, is a crucial watercourse with sedimentary 
deposits, particularly sand, that could significantly 
contribute to the construction sector. Using local resources 



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like Kirtankhola River sand aligns with sustainable 
development goals, offering positive environmental and 
economic impacts. (Chowdhury, 2017) (Siddique, 2016) 
Utilizing nearby materials reduces transportation costs, 
lowers the carbon footprint associated with transport, 
and supports regional economies. A quick method was 
developed to find fineness modulus of  sand by using 
image processing method (Fahad, A., Nayem, N.H., 
Hossain, M.N. et al. ,2024). Rabbani, M. L. (2017) 
examined on low cost roofing system. In this studied they 
used wash loacal sand with fineness modulus of  1.25. 

Rabbani, M. L., Sazzad, G., Miah, R., & Islam, T. (2023) 
studied soil quality. In this research they investigated 
various soil quality. However, the feasibility of  such 
utilization depends on a thorough understanding of  the 
quality and appropriateness of  local materials.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
Study Area
The study was conducted between the Char Kawa 
Ferry Ghat, Barishal River Port Terminal, 30 Godown, 
Dapdapia Bridge Area, Char Monai Ferry Ghat.

Figure 1: Geological Map

GPS Location of  Sampling Points

Table 1: Location
Serial Number Sample Location GPS Co-ordinates

Latitude Longitude
1 Char Kawa Ferry Ghat 22°41'49.6"N 90°22'42.7"E
2 Barisal Muktijoddha Park 22°41'43.3"N 90°22'25.8"E
3 30 Godown 22°40'42.8"N 90°21'54.5"E
4 Dapdapia Bridge Area 22°39'45.4"N 90°21'24.9"E
5 Char Monai Ferry Ghat 22°43'07.4"N 90°23'31.3"E

Sample Collection Process
We collected 500 grams of  sand from each location 
using an excavator. These samples were then transferred 
to cloth bags and labeled accordingly. Additionally, a 
separate sample of  any surface crust was collected. Each 
sample was labeled with information such as area name 
and field location. Subsequently, the samples were dried 

in the shade and sent, along with an information sheet, to 
our sand testing laboratory for comprehensive analysis. 
This meticulous sand sampling process aims to provide 
an accurate understanding of  the sand composition 
in the Kirtankhola River region, facilitating effective 
reclamation strategies and supporting sustainable sand 
practices.

Figure 2: Sand Samples



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Testing of  Sample
Several tests were performed on the collected sample. 
These were:

1. Moisture Content:
2. Dry Density:
3. pH:
4. Unit Weight:
5. Specific Gravity Procedure:

6. Sieve analysis process:
7. Fineness Modulus:
8. Hydrometer Analysis of  fine-grained soil/Evaluate 

the silt and clay content in a soil sample:
9. Particle Size Analysis:
10. Permeability

All the test were performed according to standard test 
methods. Some of  the figures of  the tests are given below.

Figure 3: Drying in Oven

Figure 4: Weight Determination

Figure 5: Sieve Analysis

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
The main aspect of  this research paper is to deliver 
several quality full details about the different parameters 
of  Kirtonkhola River sand. Which can be useable to 
construct any type of  construction by using this river 
sand. Here are the results of  our applied test:

Moisture Content
The moisture content of  Kirtonkhola River sand varied 
across the different locations, ranging from 8.33% at Char 
Monai Ferry Ghat to 15.02% at Char Kawa Ferry Ghat. 
The average moisture content of  the sand was 11.77%. 
Char Kawa Ferry Ghat exhibited the highest moisture 



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content, likely due to factors such as its proximity to 
the river or a higher concentration of  fine particles 
that retain water. Char Monai Ferry Ghat displayed 
the lowest moisture content, potentially linked to its 
location or the presence of  coarser sand particles that 
drain water more readily. The moisture content of  sand 
significantly impacts its engineering and construction 
properties. Higher moisture content can lead to reduced 
strength, increased workability, and potential instability. 
Conversely, lower moisture content can increase strength 
but reduce workability and may require additional water 

for compaction. Understanding the variations in moisture 
content across different locations within the Kirtonkhola 
River is crucial for various applications, including:

1. Selecting appropriate sand types and adjusting 
construction methods based on the anticipated moisture 
content.

2. Implementing appropriate drainage measures and 
potentially adjusting the sand content in asphalt mixes.

3. Identifying areas more susceptible to erosion due 
to higher moisture content and implementing targeted 
mitigation strategies.

Dry Density
The dry density of  Kirtonkhola River sand exhibits 
significant variation across the different locations. The 
highest dry density was observed at Char Monai Ferry 
Ghat with a value of  2.76 g/cm3, while the lowest value 
was recorded at Dapdapia Bridge Area with 1.91 g/cm3. 
This difference suggests potential variations in the sand 
composition and packing density at these locations. The 
overall dry density range of  Kirtonkhola River sand falls 

between 1.91 g/cm3 and 2.76 g/cm3. The average dry 
density of  Kirtonkhola river sand across all locations 
is 2.216 g/cm3. This range is comparable to the typical 
range reported for river sands in general, which typically 
falls between 1.5 g/cm3 and 2.8 g/cm3. Several factors 
could contribute to the observed variations in dry density, 
including grain size distribution and the presence of  
organic matter or other impurities.

Figure 6: Moisture Content Values According to Different Locations

Figure 7: Dry Density Values According to Different Locations

The dry density of  Kirtonkhola River sand exhibits significant 
variation across the different locations. The highest dry 
density was observed at Char Monai Ferry Ghat with a 
value of  2.76 g/cm3, while the lowest value was recorded 
at Dapdapia Bridge Area with 1.91 g/cm3. This difference 
suggests potential variations in the sand composition and 
packing density at these locations. The overall dry density 
range of  Kirtonkhola River sand falls between 1.91 g/cm3 
and 2.76 g/cm3. The average dry density of  Kirtonkhola 
river sand across all locations is 2.216 g/cm3. This range 
is comparable to the typical range reported for river sands 
in general, which typically falls between 1.5 g/cm3 and 2.8 

g/cm3. Several factors could contribute to the observed 
variations in dry density, including grain size distribution and 
the presence of  organic matter or other impurities.

pH
The pH of  Kirtonkhola River sand displayed a slightly 
alkaline range across the different locations, with values 
ranging from 7.3 at Dapdapia Bridge Area to 7.8 at Char 
Kawa Ferry Ghat. The average pH of  the sand was 7.54. 
All measured pH values fall within the neutral to slightly 
alkaline range (pH 6.5 - 8.5), indicating that the sand is 
not likely to pose any significant environmental concerns.



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Unit Weight
The unit weight of  Kirtonkhola River sand exhibited 
significant variations across the different locations, 
ranging from 18.731 kN/m³ at Dapdapia Bridge Area to 
27.066 kN/m³ at Char Monai Ferry Ghat. The average 
unit weight of  the sand was 21.533 kN/m³. Char Monai 

Ferry Ghat displayed the highest unit weight, potentially 
due to factors such as the presence of  coarser sand 
particles or a higher degree of  compaction. Dapdapia 
Bridge Area exhibited the lowest unit weight, potentially 
linked to a higher proportion of  finer sand particles or 
less compaction.

Figure 8: pH Values According to Different Locations

Figure 9: Unit Weight Values According to Different Locations

Figure 10: Specific Gravity Values According to Different Locations

Specific Gravity
The diverse specific gravity values observed along the 
Kirtankhola River, ranging from 2.107 to 2.647, highlight 
significant variations in soil density and composition at 
distinct locations. The higher specific gravity values at 
Chor Monai Ferry Ghat, Dapdapia Bridge Area, and 30 
Godown suggest denser materials, potentially influencing 
load-bearing capacities and foundation design. 
Conversely, lower specific gravity values at Muktijuddha 

Park and Char Kawa Ferry Ghat imply lighter, potentially 
more porous soils. Integrating these specific gravity 
findings with permeability and other geotechnical data is 
crucial for a comprehensive understanding of  subsurface 
conditions. Such insights are instrumental in guiding 
informed decisions for construction, infrastructure 
planning, and environmental management along the 
riverbank, ensuring the development’s sustainability and 
resilience

Sieve Analysis
From the sieve analysis, key parameters have been 
calculated for each sample, including the uniformity 
coefficient (Cu), coefficient of  curvature (Cc), effective 

size D10, D30, D60, and percentages of  sand, gravel, 
and finer particles. These parameters serve as critical 
indicators of  the particle size distribution and granular 
characteristics.



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Figure 11: Sieve Analysis Values According to Different Location

Figure 12: Percentage of  Sand, Gravel and Fine Values According to Different Location



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Fineness Modulus
Optimizing Fineness Modulus is crucial in concrete mix 
design, demanding a thorough evaluation of  aggregate 
characteristics. (Neville, 2011) Calculated through 
systematic sieve analysis, the Fineness Modulus serves 
as a key determinant. Increasing values, signaling coarser 
aggregates, potentially enhance strength but compromise 
workability. Conversely, lower values denote finer 

aggregates, improving workability at the possible expense 
of  strength. (211, 2019) Engineers must precisely 
calculate the Fineness Modulus within a specified range 
to strike the right balance, tailoring fine aggregates for 
project needs. This numerical representation of  particle 
size distribution guides the adjustment within a defined 
range, ensuring a dense matrix for enhanced strength and 
durability.

Table 2: Sand Quality According to Fineness Modulus
Type of  Sand Fineness Modulus
Fine Sand 2.2-2.6
Medium Sand 2.6-2.9
Coarse Sand 2.9-3.2

In summary, a precise calculation and adherence to an 
appropriate fineness Modulus range enable engineers 
to navigate the workability-strength trade-off, creating 
a customized concrete mix for diverse construction 
projects. (Mehta, 2014)Further exploration holds potential 
for refining concrete engineering practices. The Finess 

Modulus of  Kirtonkhola river sand is varies in different 
location. A study carried out on low-cost roofing, here 
a washed sand of  fineness modulus 1.5 was used as fine 
aggregate (Rabbani, A study on low cost roof  (Masonary 
Slab, 2017). Here are the values of  our finding,

Figure 13: Fineness Modulus Values According to Different Locations

Hydrometer Analysis of  Fine-Grained Soil
A hydrometer reading vs. diameter graph visually 
represents soil particle settling in water. It aids in 
determining particle size distribution, highlighting quicker 
settling of  larger particles with higher initial hydrometer 
readings. Smaller particles, like clay and silt, settle more 

slowly, leading to a gradual decrease in readings over 
time. In the specific samples discussed, Char Kawa Ferry 
Ghat displays a prominent peak, indicating higher silt and 
clay content, while Char Monai Ferry Ghat shows a less 
prominent peak, suggesting lower concentrations of  finer 
particles



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Figure 14: Hydrometer reading vs. Diameter Graph According to Different Location

Particle Size Analysis
By analyzing the particle size distribution curve for each 
sample, we distinguished and understood the unique 
characteristics of  sand in each sample based on size. This 
provided a clear scenario of  the particle size distribution, 
allowing us to identify the optimal sand for specific 

applications. (Craig, 2004) The information gleaned 
from the analysis helped in selecting the best sand from 
the samples, considering factors such as uniformity, 
gradation, and particle size composition. This ensured 
informed decision-making in utilizing the most suitable 
sand for desired engineering or construction purposes.



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Figure 15: Particle Size Distribution Curve According to Different Location

Permeability
The permeability coefficient results, ranging from 4 to 8 
x10-3 cm/sec along different locations of  the Kirtankhola 
River, signify notable spatial heterogeneity in subsurface 
characteristics. Higher coefficients in areas like Dapdapia 
Bridge, 30 Godown, and Muktijuddha Park suggest 
increased soil permeability, potentially influencing water 
flow and drainage dynamics. (Freeze, 1979) The relatively 
lower coefficients at Chor Monai and Char Kawa Ferry 

Ghat areas indicate less permeable soils. These findings 
hold significance for geotechnical and environmental 
considerations, impacting construction feasibility, 
flood risk assessments, and infrastructure planning. It 
is crucial to benchmark these results against industry 
standards and conduct further investigations to enhance 
the reliability of  the data for informed decision-making 
in the development and management of  the riverine 
environment.

Figure 16: Permeability test values According to Different Locations

CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the comprehensive quality evaluation and 
suitability assessment of  Kirtonkhola River sand for 
construction applications provide a robust foundation 
for informed decision-making. The examination of  
key properties such as dry density, pH, unit weight, 
permeability, Finess Modulus, and moisture content 
across various locations revealed a range of  characteristics 
that align with industry standards. The observed 
variations in these properties underscore the importance 
of  considering local factors that influence the engineering 
properties of  the sand. (Holtz, 1981) The slightly alkaline 
pH range (7.3 to 7.8) indicates that the sand is not likely 
to pose significant environmental concerns, contributing 
to its overall suitability for construction applications. The 
unit weight variations from 18.731 kN/m³ to 27.066 
kN/m³ highlight the importance of  understanding local 
factors influencing this property, aiding in the selection 
of  sand with appropriate stability and compaction 

characteristics. Furthermore, the moisture content 
variations from 8.33% to 15.02% emphasize the need 
for tailored construction methods and considerations, 
acknowledging the impact of  moisture on strength, 
workability, and stability. (Tiwari, 2016) Sand is used in 
almost 80 percent of  the construction industry.
It is, therefore, very important to understand the properties 
of  sand that influence the compressive strength of  
concrete. Thus, it is undeniable that sand is an important 
construction material. (FAHAD et al., 2023) This study 
provides valuable insights that can guide the selection 
of  Kirtonkhola River sand for construction projects. 
However, ongoing monitoring and further investigations 
are recommended to refine our understanding of  the 
sand’s properties and ensure its optimal utilization in 
various construction applications. The findings contribute 
to a more nuanced understanding of  the material, 
fostering sustainable and effective construction practices 
in the region. (Bingöl, 2012)



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