Structural lightweight aggregate concrete

Abstract

With typical unit weight of 90 to 120 lbs/cu.ft. and a compressive strength from 2500 psi to more that 8000 psi, structural lightweight is a versatile building material. Since it is generally 20 to 40% lighter that normalweight concrete, a structure's dead load can be reduced, its foundation cost lowered, and its concrete and rebar needs lessened. Structural lightweight concrete also resists fire better than normal conductivity and its lower coefficient of thermal expansion. In many structure, these benefits justify the use of lightweight aggregate concrete, which generally costs more than normalization concrete.