Development of Lightweight concrete for structural applications

Lightweight concretes are widely accepted in the construction industry mainly due to its low density. Pumice lightweight aggregate (PLA) is a volcanic-origin natural aggregate of very low specific gravity. It is possible to develop light weight concrete of density up to 1450 kg/m3 using pumice having a dry density of 1200 kg/m3 and sound insulation properties, higher strength/weight ratio, better fire resistance and durability properties. The advantages of lightweight concrete are: reduced mass, improved thermal Performance of pumice lightweight aggregate concrete (PLAC) under cyclic loading, which is predominantly encountered during an earthquake, is of prime importance. In the present study, cyclic behaviour of reinforced PLAC beams of M30 grade with length (L) 1500 mm, breadth (B) 100 mm and depth (D) 150 mm have been studied in the laboratory along with control beams.