Abstract
A study of the technology of foamed concrete production is carried out. The engineering properties and applications of this type of concrete are presented for varying densities so as to effectively tap the advantages of its use for specific purposes. The properties considered are the 7-day compressive strength, thermal conductivity, modulus of elasticity and drying shrinkage. A study of the behaviours of foamed concrete at varying dry densities for the different characteristics was undertaken. Results indicate that as the dry density increases, the engineering properties increase though at different rates for the 7-day Compressive strength, Thermal conductivity, and Modulus of elasticity. The drying shrinkage decreases as the dry density increases. A comparative study of the 7-day Compressive strength and Modulus of elasticity show that they both follow the same trend over the varying dry density except at a dry density of 1200 kg/m3. A comparative study of the thermal conductivity and the percent drying shrinkage indicate that the thermal conductivity is inversely proportional to the percent drying shrinkage. Economics and other considerations together with its multipurpose applications of foamed concrete can open up business opportunities in Africa and sustainability. This can also help in providing needed funds for infrastructural development.
Highlights
A study of the technology of foamed concrete production is carried out
Foamed concrete is a type of porous concrete
An aerated concrete produced by the addition of an airentraining agent to the concrete is sometimes called cellular concrete, lightweight aerated concrete, variable density concrete, foamed concrete and lightweight or ultra-lightweight concrete [4], [5]
Summary
Concrete is a composite material composed of coarse granular material in various ratios embedded in a hard matrix of cementing or binding material which fills the space among the aggregate particles, all glued together. An aerated concrete produced by the addition of an airentraining agent to the concrete (or a lightweight aggregate such as expanded clay aggregate or cork granules and vermiculite) is sometimes called cellular concrete, lightweight aerated concrete, variable density concrete, foamed concrete and lightweight or ultra-lightweight concrete [4], [5] These should not be confused with aerated autoclaved concrete, which is manufactured off-site using an entirely different method. Cement is mixed with sand using water forming slurry This is further mixed with foam produced from a foam generating machine. Stable foam is the key ingredient in the production of foamed concrete This foam is made by a simple foaming generator where air, water and foaming chemicals are mixed and stable foam is formed. The high capacity foam generator can generate e up to 600 l/min. [11] has considered the use of laterite as fine aggregate in foamed concrete production. [12] has shown that Foamed concrete is the most popular of all low-density concretes in developing countries
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
