Utilisation of Maltese sands for aerated concrete production

Abstract

The present experimental study evaluated the performance of lightweight aerated concrete incorporating local limestone sands available in many quarries over the islands. The sands used include lower Coralline limestone and Globigerina limestone waste. For the production of aerated concrete, the aforementioned sands were mixed with two types of cement and two different dosages of expansive agent. Performance of the aerated concrete was investigated in terms of ultimate compressive strength, density and strength development. Eight mixes were developed and tested at the age of 7, 14 and 28 days. Specimens were cured in water, air and through a process that included both water and oven heat to examine the effect of the curing regimes.