Light Weight Concrete Used in Building Construction -A Review Paper

Lightweight concrete is an innovative construction material that is widely used in modern building construction due to its reduced self-weight and improved performance characteristics. It is produced by replacing conventional coarse aggregates with lightweight aggregates such as expanded clay, pumice, fly ash, or by introducing air voids using foaming agents. The main objective of using lightweight concrete is to reduce the dead load of structures, which results in economical structural design and improved seismic performance. Lightweight concrete offers several advantages including better thermal insulation, sound absorption, fire resistance, and ease of handling. It is especially suitable for high-rise buildings, precast elements, partitions, floor slabs, and renovation works where weight reduction is critical. Additionally, the use of industrial by-products in lightweight concrete contributes to sustainable and eco-friendly construction practices.