What is lightweight concrete?

I have been using lightweight concrete in my construction projects. Lightweight concrete is a specific type of concrete that contains an expansion ingredient to boost the mixture's capacity. It enhances other properties like lowering the unnecessary load. The low density (300 kg) and thermal conductivity of lightweight concrete are its key advantages. So let me guide you more on lightweight concrete.

What is lightweight concrete?

The sort of lightweight concrete that is nowadays most frequently used is concrete with porous particles. Because light and porous material were used, the density of the material does not go above 180 kN/m2.

The lighter concrete not only reduces the structure's overall unnecessary load but also provides superior thermal and sound insulation. Although such concrete has a lower strength, it is nevertheless suitable for use in reinforced concrete and prefabricated concrete buildings. Concrete that is lightweight is a more recent substance. The density of concrete made with such material can be up to 30% lower than regular weight concrete for the same crushing strength.

Uses of Lightweight Concrete:

• In earthquake regions, you can build both residential and non-residential constructions using structural lightweight concrete.

• Additionally, this concrete may be used to build underground tunnels.

• In buildings with steel and concrete frames as well as parking areas, structural lightweight concrete can be used for foundations, columns, slabs, and wall components. 

• Prefabricated concrete wall frames and boards, residences with unstable ground, boats, ships, lightweight blocks/bricks, thin roof structures, roof sections in high-rise structures, doors and bridge decks are a few examples of structures that can be made from lightweight concrete.

Properties of Lightweight Concrete:

• The particles used in lightweight concrete might be uneven, angular, spherical, or cubical in shape.

• Lightweight concrete can have very tiny holes, very slick surfaces, or highly uneven surfaces with noticeable pores.

• The thermal conductivity of lightweight concrete is lower than that of traditional concrete since it has a lower density and higher moisture levels because of its pore structure.

Now you are well aware of the concept of lightweight concrete.