Kevytbetonituotteita

Kevytbetonituotteita refers to building materials made from lightweight concrete, a composite material in which the cementitious binder is combined with a low-density aggregate such as expanded clay, shale or foam. The aggregate typically has a specific gravity ranging from 0.5 to 1.8 g/cm³, which reduces the overall density of the concrete compared to normal-weight concrete. This reduction often results in a density between 1400 and 2000 kg/m³, while retaining sufficient strength for many architectural and structural applications.

The technical performance of heavytbetonituotteita hinges on a balance between compressive strength, thermal insulation, acoustic absorption, and durability. Strength grades of C10–C40 (measured in megapascals) are common, allowing use in floor slabs, roof decks, and non-load-bearing walls. The high porosity of lightweight aggregates enhances thermal conductivity to values as low as 0.06 W/m·K, which improves energy efficiency in buildings. Acoustic insulation is also superior; sound transmission loss can exceed 40 dB in typical panels.

Manufacturing processes resemble those of conventional concrete: the mixture is blended, poured into forms, and cured. However, special attention is required to control aggregate dispersion and moisture content. Variants such as foam concrete, where chemical foaming agents introduce microscopic air bubbles, can decrease density further to below 800 kg/m³ for use in structural panels or acoustic tiles.

Regulatory standards – for example Finnish SAMPE and international Eurocode 2 – specify design, testing, and quality control requirements. Builders often combine kevytbetonituotteita with steel or fiber reinforcement to achieve required load-bearing performance while keeping construction weight low. Consequently, lightweight concrete products are widely used in prefabricated construction, rehabilitation of existing structures, and green building projects where weight reduction and thermal performance are priorities.