Use of LDA in Concrete:

Pre Saturation
Due to its high porosity LDA needs to be pre-saturated with water; "Curing concrete from inside out" as per ASTM-C1761. Ideally water should be sufficiently sprinkled on stacks of LDA before they are lifted for concrete mixing. For small batches soaking of LDA for 30-45 minutes helps.

Placement
Concrete prepared with LDA in place of stone chips ,can be placed by any conventional method of pumping, chutes, buckets or cranes. Transportation by bulker from RMCs further help in saturation and concrete quality.

Compaction
Over-vibration should be avoided in LDA concrete as LDA will have the tendency to float up if not saturated properly.

Finishing
Lightweight concrete is easier for placement and finishing in comparison with natural aggregate concrete. Setting time for both is same.

Curing
External curing is the same as done for normal concrete.

Structural concrete made with LDA should not be confused with other medium or light weight concretes prepared with use of bloated clay, shellac or foam. It is a complete replacement of normal weight concrete with all load bearing applications remaining the same.