This study assesses the possible use of local raw materials (clays) for producing
expanded clay pellets and test the product with American standard for test materials
(ASTM) and according to ASTM C 330.For using them as lightweight aggregate in
different construction applications, like thermal insulation, lightweight structural
concrete , decoration pieces ,etc. The clay was collected from Al-Anbar province.
The clay
treatment and perfect firing program, in order to obtain good bloating coefficient that
is related with firing parameters (access time, temperature, socking time) .
We got the results of the match determined by the American specification (ASTM
C330) and in which is considered lightweight aggregates or non-lightweight
aggregate. We got density about (280 kg / m3) which is much less than that
determined by ASTM where the aggregate lightly if the density is less than (880 kg
/ m3).