Lightweight aggregates

In the construction industry, the search for lightweight, high-performance materials has become a priority in order to meet growing demands for energy efficiency, sustainability and a reduced carbon footprint. Lightweight aggregates, often derived from industrial processes or by-products, play a crucial role in the manufacture of innovative, insulating concretes. They enable structures to be made lighter, while providing satisfactory thermal and acoustic insulation, thus helping to improve building performance.

This article reviews a variety of lightweight materials, from mineral aggregates to synthetic and plant-based products. Each material is analyzed from different angles: its origin, physical and chemical characteristics, manufacturing methods and performance as a component of lightweight concrete. This includes classic materials such as expanded clay and perlite, as well as more recent, environmentally-friendly alternatives such as plant-based aggregates and expanded glass. The aim is to provide an overview of available solutions and innovations in the field of lightweight aggregates for the building industry.