Study on Properties of Lightweight Concrete Using Expanded Clay Aggregate and Its Value Engineering

Comparison was made between normal concrete (NC) and lightweight concrete (LWC) in terms of fresh, hardened and durability properties of concrete like fresh and hardened density, workability, compressive and flexural strength, modulus of elasticity, rapid chloride ion penetration and water absorption test. NC of M30 grade with normal aggregate and LWC having densities 1400, 1600 and 1800 kg/m³ from expanded clay aggregate (ECA) with complete replacement were prepared. The specimens prepared were tested on 7, 28 and 56 days. Key observations were that the density of the mixes remained constant throughout 56 days for all the mixes. Strengths of the LWC decrease with an increase in the percentage of ECA in the mix. However, LWC showed better results in durability properties than NC. Value engineering between NC and LWC showing best result among lightweight concrete was considered. Complete replacement of structural members was made by LWC and compared to get additional floors with the same load of NC for G + 5, G + 10 and G + 15 structures.