This paper aims the characterization of different S. Paulo state ceramic material for the production of calcined Clay lightweight aggregates in order to use in Portland cement concretes. The characterization of ceramic material was made by techniques of liquid and plasticity limits, particle size analysis, chemical analysis and X-ray diffraction. The specimens made from these ceramic materials, burned at 900 ºC, were characterized by evaluating of linear shrinkage, water absorption, apparent porosity, specific mass, moisture expansion and compressive strength. Results of this research indicated the viability of production of calcined clay lightweight aggregate for use in concrete and the values of specific mass (1.555 to 1.785 kg/m³) and compressive strength (18.0 to 55.8 MPa) presented at a intermediate level between those observed for the expanded clay (commercial lightweight aggregate)and the conventional aggregate (basalt).
cerâmic material; calcined clay lightweight aggregates; lightweight concrete
