Magistrsko delo obravnava vpliv ekspandiranega glinenega agregata (LECA) na reološke, mehanske in izolativne lastnosti cementnih kompozitov. Namen raziskave je bil preučiti, kako različne frakcije ekspandirane gline vplivajo na sveže in strjene betonske mešanice, ter identificirati optimalne sestave za uporabo v trajnostnem gradbeništvu. Eksperimentalni del raziskave je vključeval analizo različnih betonskih receptur z različnimi deleži ekspandiranega agregata. Rezultati so pokazali, da dodatek LECA zmanjša gostoto betona, kar omogoča lažjo vgradnjo in zmanjša obremenitev konstrukcij. Hkrati je bila opažena izboljšana toplotna izolacija, kar prispeva k večji energetski učinkovitosti stavb. Vendar pa se je pokazalo tudi zmanjšanje tlačne in upogibne trdnosti, kar je treba upoštevati pri uporabi takšnih materialov v konstrukcijskih elementih. Kljub določenim omejitvam, kot so povečana vpojnost agregata in potencialno slabša trajnost v agresivnih okoljskih razmerah, rezultati raziskave potrjujejo, da je ekspandirana glina obetaven material za razvoj lahkih in izolativnih betonskih kompozitov.
“The master’s thesis examines the effect of expanded clay aggregate (LECA) on the rheological, mechanical, and insulating properties of cement composites. The aim of the research was to study how different fractions of expanded clay influence fresh and hardened concrete mixtures and to identify optimal compositions for use in sustainable construction. The experimental part of the research included the analysis of various concrete formulations with different proportions of expanded aggregate. The results showed that the addition of LECA reduces the density of concrete, allowing easier placement and reducing the load on structures. At the same time, improved thermal insulation was observed, contributing to greater energy efficiency in buildings. However, a decrease in compressive and flexural strength was also noted, which must be considered when using such materials in structural elements. Despite certain limitations, such as increased aggregate absorption and potentially reduced durability in aggressive environmental conditions, the research results confirm that expanded clay is a promising material for the development of lightweight and insulating concrete composites.”
