Investigating a reinforced lightweight foamed concrete walling system for low-rise residential buildings in moderate seismic regions

Historically, lightweight foam concrete (LWFC) has been used in non-structural applications. However, low self-weight, insulating properties and fire resistance make LWFC an ideal construction material for residential infrastructure, if suitable mechanical properties of strength, stiffness and ductility, as well as durability can be assured. The development of LWFC for structural use has created a need for a structural system that harnesses these beneficial material properties. In this paper a LWFC walling system is proposed, tested and analysed with finite elements. Results of quasi-static monotonic pull-over tests as well as cyclic tests indicate that the proposed precast walling and connection system is likely to both provide predictable structural behaviour as well as adequate resistance for low-rise residential buildings in regions of low to moderate seismicity.