TephraLite
Lightweight Aggregate for Geotechnical Applications
TephraLite is the ideal “lightweight aggregate” suitable for virtually all construction applications that require a high-quality material with proven and reliable characteristics.
This product quarried and produced near Quesnel, British Columbia, Canada consists of red to grey vesicular basalt. The advantages of TephraLite over traditional lightweight materials are well established. Its ease of transportation and installation reduces construction time and costs. TephraLite versatility and superior performance, acknowledged by construction industry experts, is demonstrated in a broad range of applications and uses.
SIEVE ANALYSIS ASTM c136
The most commonly specified size for TephraLite construction fill is 25mm x 75mm. The following chart represents a recent sieve analysis.
PROPERTIES
BULK DENSITY (ASTM C29)
Loose Bulk Density: 730 kg/m3
Compacted Bulk Density: 855 kg/m3
Test Method: Jigged
RELATIVE DENSITY AND ABSORPTION (ASTM C127)
Relative Density: 1.80 SSD
Water Absorption: 10.6%
DURABILITY INDEX (ASTM D3744)
Result: 96 (Dc)
DURABILITY
Testing, as well as in-situ experience and performance, indicates that TephraLite is highly resistant to breakdown related to freeze thaw conditions. It has a structural integrity that is significantly higher than pumice and doesn’t crush or soften when exposed to water. Extensive laboratory tests for aggregates types ranging from minus 75mm to 2mm, indicates a loss of mass much less than 2%. (AASHTO Method T103).
UV DETERIORATION
In-Situ results indicate that TephraLite deterioration to UV exposure is comparable to that of normal sand and gravel.
ABRASION RESISTANCE
The Burbank Paddle Test shows that the Abrasion Index Number (AIN) of 0.0584 is a very low abrasion rating for basalt and offers long lasting abrasive characteristics.
ENVIRONMENT
TephraLite is an environmentally neutral material. It is insoluble, 100% inert, totally natural, resists chemical attack, not harmful to animals or aquatic life and agriculturally beneficial.
PH (AASHTO T289)
Result: 8.8
SOIL RESISTIVITY (AASHTO T288)
Result: 16,864 ohm-cm
Requirement: 3,000 ohm-cm
CHLORIDE CONTENT (AASHTO T291)
Result: Less than 100 PPM
Requirement: 100 PPM maximum
SULPHATE CONTENT (AASHTO T290)
Result: Less than 200 PPM
Requirement: 200 PPM Maximum