Evaluation Performance of Structural Lightweight Self-Compacting ‎Concrete Incorporating Two Type of Lightweight Aggregates Local ‎Attapulgite versus LECA

Abstract

The evolving need for environmentally friendly construction materials has led to the creation of lightweight self-compacting concrete (LWSCC). This overview examines the effect of lightweight coarse aggregate (LWCA) type on fresh and hardened properties of LWSCC, specifically evaluating the use of local lightweight Attapulgite aggregate (ATG) and comparing it with the conventional lightweight coarse aggregate, lightweight expanded clay aggregate (LECA). The study produced two LWSCC mixes with the same amount of binder and tested them using common methods for fresh and hardened properties, including slump flow, V-funnel, L-box, compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, flexural strength, modulus of elasticity, and impact resistance.  The results confirmed that each ATG- and LECA-based mix met the EFNARC requirements for fresh property and ACI limits for structural lightweight concrete (SLWC), which indicate that they can flow without vibrations and get compressive strength higher than 17 MPa. On the other hand, the flowability of the ATG mixtures was slightly lower because they absorbed extra water and had particles with angler edge, rough texture, and production method. Therefore, fresh properties have shown some increase when compared with LECA. LWSCCs primarily based on ATG had approximately 11% additional compressive strength and 21% better elasticity parameters than LECA mixtures. Furthermore, the overall performance in tensile, bending, and impact improved. The results show that ATG can be a viable alternative to conventional lightweight aggregates. This will help the environment and make the system perform better.