This specification covers lightweight aggregates intended for use in structural concrete in which prime considerations are reducing the density while maintaining the compressive strength of the concrete. Procedures covered in this specification are not intended for job control of concrete. Two general types of lightweight aggregates are covered by this specification: aggregates prepared by expanding, pelletizing, or sintering products such as blast-furnace slag, clay, diatomite, fly ash, shale, or slate; and aggregates prepared by processing natural materials, such as pumice, scoria, or tuff. The aggregates shall be composed predominately of lightweight-cellular and granular inorganic material. Lightweight aggregates shall be tested, and should not contain excessive amounts of deleterious substances; and should conform to the specified values of organic impurities, aggregate staining, aggregate loss of ignition, clay lumps and friable particles, loose bulk density, compressive strength, drying shrinkage, popouts, and resistance to freezing and thawing.

1.1 This specification covers lightweight aggregates intended for use in structural concrete in which prime considerations are reducing the density while maintaining the compressive strength of the concrete. Procedures covered in this specification are not intended for job control of concrete.

1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

1.2.1 With regard to other units of measure, the values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard.

1.3 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes which provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the standard.

Note 1: This specification is regarded as adequate to ensure satisfactory lightweight aggregates for most concrete. It is recognized that it may be either more or less restrictive than needed for some conditions and for special purposes, such as fire resistance, fill, and concrete constructions, the use of which is based on load tests rather than conventional design procedures.

1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.