Investigation of properties of low-strength lightweight concrete for thermal insulation

In this study, block elements with diatomite, which have different aggregate granulometries and cement contents, were produced and the effect of these parameters on physical and mechanical properties of block elements were investigated. Diatomite samples were taken from the region of Afyon. In the mixes, water/cement ratio was kept at 0.15. Analyses include compressive strength, thermal conductivity, ultrasonic velocity tests, bulk density and specific porosity. According to experimental results, while dry unit weight is varied between 900 and 1190 kg/m3, compressive strength of 7–56 days specimens ranged from 2.5 to 8 MPa. Materials with a ratio of 30% fine, 40% medium and 30% coarse size have the best compressive strength and thermal insulation in all series. Due to low thermal conductivity, lightweight aggregate concrete with diatomite can be used to prove high isolation in the structure.