A comprehensive review of foam concrete and its applications in civil engineering
摘要
Foam concrete is an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional concrete and has gained increasing attention in construction engineering due to its unique material characteristics. It is a special type of porous concrete distinguished by its low density, high workability, and favourable thermal and mechanical properties. These advantages make foam concrete particularly suitable for applications where weight reduction, ease of placement, and sustainability are critical considerations. This paper provides a comprehensive review and classification of the current literature, focusing on the material’s diverse engineering applications and performance benchmarks. Key findings reveal that while foam concrete is widely established in lightweight blocks and roof insulation, its most significant recent contributions are in large-scale infrastructure, including bridge abutments, road sub-base layers, and tunnel void filling, where its low-density reduces structural dead loads and lateral pressures. The review further identifies a critical correlation between pore-structure refinement and mechanical stability, emphasizing that current advancements in chemical admixtures allow for structural-grade foam concrete without compromising thermal efficiency. By consolidating data on construction efficiency and environmental impact, this study serves as a high-impact reference for practitioners and outlines essential research gaps in the long-term durability of sustainable porous matrices.