What is Concrete?

Concrete is a composite material obtained through the binding and hardening of a concrete mix, which consists of a binder (most commonly cement), aggregate, water, and appropriate admixtures.

Types of Concrete Based on Apparent Density:

• Lightweight concrete (apparent density below 1800 kg/m³)
• Normal-weight concrete (1800 to 2600 kg/m³)
• Heavyweight concrete (above 2600 kg/m³)

Lightweight Concrete

Lightweight concrete is made using lightweight aggregates or aerated concrete.
Aerated concrete is produced from cement, sand, water, and a foaming agent.

Applications:

• Used for wall and floor elements, including:
  • Medium-sized components (wall and floor panels).
  • Small-sized components (wall blocks, prefabricated lintels).

Normal-Weight Concrete

• Density: 2200–2600 kg/m³
  • Made with natural or crushed aggregates (sand + gravel or sand + basalt stone).
  • Used for structural concrete and reinforced concrete elements.
• Density: 1800–2200 kg/m³
  • Made with porous aggregates (e.g., expanded clay).
  • Used for elements with enhanced thermal insulation properties, such as:
    • Cladding walls
    • Wall and floor hollow blocks

Heavyweight Concrete

Heavyweight concrete is made with special aggregates (e.g., barite, steel, manganese).

Applications:

• Used as biological shielding to reduce ionizing radiation exposure.