Cementitious materials with hollow glass microsphere inclusions are composite materials that combine cement, water, and fine aggregates with tiny, hollow glass microspheres. The addition of these microspheres can enhance the properties of the cementitious materials by reducing their density, improving their thermal insulation, and increasing their strength.
The hollow glass microspheres used in cementitious materials are typically made from soda-lime-borosilicate glass and have an average diameter of 10 to 150 microns. These microspheres have a low density and high strength, making them ideal for use in lightweight composites.
When incorporated into cementitious materials, the hollow glass microspheres act as a filler, occupying space in the mixture that would otherwise be filled with heavier materials. This reduces the density of the composite, making it lighter and more easily handled. The microspheres also improve the thermal insulation properties of the composite, reducing heat transfer through the material.
In addition to their lightweight and insulation properties, the inclusion of hollow glass microspheres can also enhance the mechanical properties of cementitious materials. When mixed with cement, the microspheres can improve the flexural strength, compressive strength, and durability of the resulting composite.
The use of hollow glass microspheres in cementitious materials can result in a range of benefits, including reduced weight, improved insulation, and enhanced mechanical properties. As such, these materials are increasingly being used in construction, infrastructure, and other applications where lightweight, strong, and thermally insulating materials are needed.