Optimizing the Performance of Lightweight Aggregate Masonry Units through the Application of Various Admixtures
Received: 19 March 2025 | Revised: 24 April 2025 and 28 April 2025 | Accepted: 1 May 2025 | Online: 4 April 2026
Corresponding author: Tahseen D. Saadoon
Abstract
The main objective of this study is to investigate how different mineral additives, namely Silica Fume (SF), Fly Ash (FA), and Ground Granulated Blast-Furnace Slag (GGBS), affect the functionality of lightweight masonry units. The amounts of additives replaced were 10%, 20%, and 30% by weight. Compressive strength, density, water absorption, shrinkage, and thermal insulation tests were performed. The test periods for all characteristics were 7, 28, and 65 days, except for thermal insulation, which was tested after 28 days. The results showed significant improvements in insulation and mechanical performance. The improved performance of these additives reflects the work that also needs to be done in the environmental and economic fields.
Keywords:
lightweight concrete, thermal, strengthDownloads
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Copyright (c) 2026 Tahseen D. Saadoon, Hadel Obaidi, Anmar Dulaimi, Ali Jaber, Bahman Ghiassi, Ahmed Issa

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