Development of a Specification for Innovative Lightweight Concrete: Low-Density Engineered Cementitious Composites (LD-ECC)

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Project Overview:

Building upon the successful application of Low-Density Engineered Cementitious Composite (LD-ECC) in the construction of a slip road embarkment at Shap Pat Heung interchange in Yuen Long , Building Technology Research Institute (BTRi) in collaboration with the Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD) is developing  guidelines for general application of this innovative material, to facilitate its wider use in future works, including specific design approach and requirements, standardized material performance requirements, comprehensive quality assurance and control (QA/QC) protocols, and best practices for on-site construction and execution. 

Key Features of LD-ECC 

• Exceptional Material Performance: Delivers three times the compressive strength of traditional foamed concrete of similar weight, featuring high ductility, superior fatigue resistance, low water absorption, excellent cracking control and self-healing capabilities for micro-cracks. 

• Boosted Construction Efficiency: replace the traditional “heavy structure” scheme to a “lightweight fill” embankment scheme, simplifying the construction process and successfully shortening overall construction time by 40% to 50%. 

• Community-Friendly Construction: Significantly reduces the use of noisy machinery, effectively minimizing nuisance to surrounding community.