Sustainable Materials Used as Lightweight Aggregate :(An Overview)

Abstract

Lightweight aggregates (LWA) are building materials with a lower bulk density than standard construction aggregates. In recent years, the contribution of industry to the circular economy has become a serious concern. Among these, the mining sector is confronted with significant problems relating to the management of a huge quantity of generated waste. The major contemporary task is to address a number of interconnected challenges, including waste management and recycling, conservation of scarce natural resources, reduction of energy use, and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Natural aggregates are consumed by the construction materials industry in the range of 8 to 12 billion tons per year. According to reports, the construction materials sector consumes the most energy and scarce natural resources (rocks, aggregates, and water) while also emitting greenhouse gases. In general, using waste material as lightweight aggregate decreases the concrete's overall weight. The materials used as lightweight aggregate in concrete are discussed in this study. According to research, utilizing trash as a lightweight aggregate not only improves the characteristics of concrete but also gives a sustainable approach to minimize global waste.