State-of-the-art review on advancement in foam concrete production technology using mineral admixtures

The building industry is seeking an alternative to conventional concrete because of its substantial weight and heat conductivity, which is worsened by the effects of global warming. Multiple research investigations are underway to discover a resolution, and presently, there is an increasing inclination towards the utilization of foamed concrete. This lightweight foam concrete exhibits a flexibility in design densities (300 and 1800 kg/m³) as compared to ordinary concrete contributes decreases in weight of structures, lower the production costs and labour. Moreover, the abundance of pores in foamed concrete offers exceptional thermal and sound insulation properties, rendering it suited for application in many climatic circumstances. This comprehensive review examines a thorough investigation on foam concrete, specifically emphasizing the techniques employed to produce foam of superior quality. The study further explores the influence of different techniques, such as mechanical stirrers, aerosols, and compressed air, on the stability of foam. Furthermore, it also provides an important basis and guidance for sustainable waste management utilisation towards low carbon foamed concrete manufacturing. The key observation/recommendation based on the present study highlights the usage of foam concrete produced with compressed air mechanism with pre-foam method of foam concrete production delivers the better quality of foam resulted to produce enhanced microstructure leads to improved mechanical properties. Furthermore, it is recommended to use environmental friendly byproducts, such as Ground granulated blast furnace slag, fly ash, silica fume, and rice husk ash, as potential alternatives in foam concrete production and their impact on the microstructure of the concrete.