The properties of lightweight aggregates directly determine the performance of concrete.
All lightweight concrete
Definition: Both coarse and fine aggregates are made of lightweight aggregates.
Characteristics: The lowest density, the best insulation performance, but relatively low strength.
Example: Concrete prepared with ceramic particles and clay sand.
Sand lightweight concrete
Definition: Coarse aggregate uses lightweight aggregate (such as ceramic particles), while fine aggregate partially or entirely uses ordinary sand.
Characteristic: Balancing performance. Due to the introduction of ordinary sand, its density and strength are higher than those of fully lightweight concrete, and its workability is better. It is the most commonly used form of lightweight aggregate concrete for structural use.
Example: Concrete prepared by using ceramic particles as coarse aggregates and combining them with natural river sand or machine-made sand.
Large pore sand free concrete
Definition: Composed of cement, light coarse aggregate, and water, without or with very little fine aggregate, forming a continuous macroporous structure internally.
Characteristics: Permeable, breathable, low density, but low strength.
Application: Mainly used for non load bearing walls, permeable floors, greening projects, etc.