How much water may lightweight aggregates absorb?

Lightweight aggregates are designed to have a higher porosity compared to traditional aggregates, allowing them to absorb significant amounts of water relative to their weight. This property is particularly important in various concrete applications, as it can influence the mix's overall strength, workability, and performance.

The capacity of lightweight aggregates to absorb water can indeed reach up to 80% of their weight, depending on the specific type and treatment of the aggregate. This high absorption rate is beneficial for enhancing the workability of concrete but must be accounted for in mix design since it affects the water-to-cement ratio and the overall durability of the concrete.

The other absorption percentages mentioned represent lower extremes of absorption capacity for lightweight aggregates. However, these do not encompass the full potential of highly porous materials, hence making the highest value the most accurate and relevant for understanding the properties of lightweight aggregates.