Structural lightweight concrete with pumice aggregate

Abstract

This study presents the results of extensive tests to investigate the mixing proportion, density, mechanical properties (compressive strength, modulus of elasticity, flexural strength and tensile strength), creep and drying shrinkage of structural lightweight concrete based on pumice aggregates. Material variables included the total amount, and composition of cementitious materials, pumice aggregate content, replacement of sand by fine pumice aggregates, and air content. The experimental results are compared with code relations and proposed equations for structural pumice concretes. Based on the results of these tests, recommended relationships are given.Flexural tests were conducted through four singly reinforced beams and 1 doubly reinforced pumice concrete beam; the variables were the ratio of tensile steel content to the balanced steel content and the compression reinforcement. The concrete strength was targeted to have 25 MPa for all the beams. Test results are presented in terms of load-deformation behavior, ductility index, and cracking behavior.