LIGHTWEIGHT FLY ASH AGGREGATES FOR HIGH STRENGTH CONCRETE

摘要

Sintered fly ash lightweight aggregates have been manufactured using a new process that does not involve pelletising. These aggregates possess unique characteristics that make them suitable for high strength concrete. Concrete produced using these aggregates was 22% lighter and at the same time 20% stronger than normal weight aggregate concrete. Drying shrinkage was 33% less than that of normal weight concrete. The importance of the new aggregates lies mostly in the fact that superior qualities are achieved without having to increase the cement content. Thus it is possible to reduce the amount of cement by as much as 20% without affecting the required strength. The significant reduction in the weight of structures also make it possible to reduce the quantity of cement and other materials that may be needed. These benefits are of significant importance for the environment as well as the economy.