Introduction
Aggregate can be defined as a material that is used as filler for filling up the voids during construction. It comprises of a broad category of coarse material that is used in construction. Aggregates are the most mined category of minerals in the world. They have been in use for thousands of years with significant use taking place back during the Roman Empire. The invention of concrete resulted in demand for aggregate since it is a crucial material for preparation of concrete.
Working Principle of Aggregate
Aggregates impart strength by reinforcing the composite material, that is to say, they fill up the voids to form a substance that has more compressive strength. By filling up the space that is available, aggregate ensures that the structure doesn’t fail when load is applied to the structure.
Types of Aggregate 
- Sand
- Gravel
- Slag
- Geo-synthetic Aggregates and
- Crushed stone
- Granular material
- Recycled concrete
Applications of Aggregate 
- Foundations
- French Drains
- Septic Drain Fields
- Retaining Wall Drains
- Foundations
- Roads
- Railroads
- Concrete Constituent
Precautionary Measures
- Make sure that segregation of aggregate does not occur.
- Depending upon its usage, it should be dry/wet.
- Make sure that it has passed the sieve size test and is correctly graded.
- Different applications require different standards of aggregates; be wary of that.