Work

Mechanical and thermal conductivity properties of alkali-resistant glass fiber shale ceramsite lightweight concrete based on microstructure

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: A new type of alkali-resistant glass fiber shale ceramsite lightweight concrete (AGFSCLC) was developed to address issues such as high density, proneness to cracking, and poor thermal conductivity of traditional concrete partition wall materials, providing a base material that meets performance requirements for lightweight phase change energy storage concrete (LPCESC). The control variable method was used to set mix proportions with different gradients of water-binder ratio (w/b) and AGF content (Vr), revealing the regulatory mechanism of Vr on the dry apparent density, strength, and thermal conductivity of AGFSCLC. Additionally, a modified model considering fiber agglomeration effect and interface failure was proposed. Fractal theory was applied to analyze the pore structure of AGFSCLC. The results show that when Vr ≤ 1%, the dry apparent density of AGFSCLC is controlled within 1177~1459kg/m3, meeting the lightweight requirements for LPCESC base materials; the compressive strength is increased by 8.18%~15.89% compared with Vr = 0%; the splitting tensile strength is increased by 36.40%~52.87%, which can resist the strength degradation caused by the incorporation of phase change materials; the thermal conductivity is optimal at Vr = 1%, increasing by 14.05%~14.74% compared to Vr = 0%, balancing heat storage and release efficiency with thermal insulation needs. When Vr > 1%, the number of mesopores and macropores in AGFSCLC increases, leading to a decrease in strength and a reduction in the increase amplitude of thermal conductivity. Through fractal dimension analysis of the pore structure, it was found that when Vr ≤ 1%, it can better compensate for the cracking problem caused by shale ceramsite lightweight concrete, aiming to solve the problem of shortened service life faced by current prefabricated buildings.

Source: Case Studies in Construction Materials

DOI: 10.1016/j.cscm.2026.e05855

Authors: Yafei Zhang, Faning Dang, Mei Zhou, Yutao Li, Lin Zhu, Tianjing Linghu

Institution: Xi'an University of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Innovative concrete reinforcement materials

Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,660