Calculating the Right Amount of Ballast for Concrete
Lightweight Concrete and its Differences from Conventional Concrete
At present, there are various types of concrete that can be used for construction. Among these types, two of the most common are conventional concrete and lightweight concrete. Both types have their own advantages and disadvantages, and knowing the differences between them is crucial in choosing the right material for a particular construction project.
In this article, we will discuss the differences between conventional concrete and lightweight concrete, and how they affect the performance and characteristics of the concrete.
What is Conventional Concrete?
Conventional concrete is the most common type of concrete used for construction. It is composed of cement, water, and aggregates such as sand, gravel, or crushed stone. It is a heavy material that has a density of about 2400 kg/m3. Its high density makes it strong and durable, which makes it suitable for building structures such as bridges, high-rise buildings, and other heavy-duty applications.
What is Lightweight Concrete?
Lightweight concrete is a type of concrete that has a lower density compared to conventional concrete. It is composed of the same basic ingredients as conventional concrete, but it has lightweight aggregates, such as expanded clay, shale, or perlite, added to it. This type of concrete has a density of 1600 kg/m3 or less, making it about 30% lighter than conventional concrete.
Differences between Conventional and Lightweight Concrete
1. Density
The most obvious difference between conventional and lightweight concrete is their density. Conventional concrete is a heavy material, while lightweight concrete is lighter, which makes it easier to handle and transport. Lightweight concrete also has better insulation properties, which makes it ideal for use in buildings where thermal insulation is required.
2. Strength
Conventional concrete is stronger than lightweight concrete, but its high strength comes at a cost of a higher density. Lightweight concrete may not be as strong as conventional concrete, but its strength is still sufficient for many construction applications.
3. Workability
Workability refers to the ease with which concrete can be mixed, placed, and finished. Lightweight concrete has better workability compared to conventional concrete, which makes it easier to place and finish. This is because lightweight aggregates have a smoother surface and are more uniform in size compared to the aggregates used in conventional concrete.
4. Cost
The cost of lightweight concrete is generally higher than conventional concrete because of the added cost of lightweight aggregates. However, this cost can be offset by the savings in transportation, handling, and placement costs due to the lighter weight of the material.
Applications of Conventional and Lightweight Concrete
Conventional concrete is generally used in applications where high strength and durability are required, such as in the construction of high-rise buildings, bridges, and other heavy-duty applications.
On the other hand, lightweight concrete is used in applications where insulation properties are required, such as in the construction of low-rise buildings, walls, and floors.
Conclusion
In summary, the differences between conventional concrete and lightweight concrete lie in their density, strength, workability, and cost. Conventional concrete is a heavier material that is stronger and more durable than lightweight concrete, while lightweight concrete is lighter and has better insulation properties. The choice of which material to use depends on the specific needs of the construction project.