AN ECONOMIC PERSPECTIVE OF ADVANTAGES OF USING LIGHTWEIGHT CONCRETE IN CONSTRUCTION

The developments of complex structures, high-tower buildings, large-sized concrete structures, etc. in recent years result in a need for better concrete performance. Reducing the self-weight of the structures is vital for the structural safety. For this purpose, lightweight concrete (LWC) has been used successfully for both structural and non-structural applications for many years. The use of LWC is continuously increasing for many structural purposes all around the world. Good thermal insulation, better durability and reduction in self-weight of the structures are well recognised benefits of this material. Furthermore, the utilisation of LWC is highly essential in terms construction costs. In this study, the possible advantages of using LWC in construction have been scrutinised, and the benefits of using this material, especially in earthquake regions such as Turkey, have been examined.