Permeable low-density cellular concrete (PLDCC) as a replacement for aggregate layers in permeable parking lots

Abstract This study examines the suitability of permeable low-density cellular concrete (PLDCC), a highly porous concrete with no aggregates, as a partial replacement for aggregate layers in permeable parking lots. Four PLDCCs are developed in the laboratory, and their permeability and compressive strength are tested. The tested PLDCCs have compressive strengths of 0.6–1.8 MPa, permeabilities of 300–1800 cm/h, and air void contents of 70–80%, thus demonstrating the favorable aggregate properties of the PLDCC. The study compares the effectiveness of the PLDCC by creating a conventional permeable paving section and four more sections in which the PLDCC replaces 50% of the aggregate layer. Potable water is then filtered through the developed permeable paving models, and the level of contaminants in the output water of each layer is monitored for 25 cycles. The effluent from the permeable paving with the PLDCC exhibits higher alkalinity, pH, and total dissolved solids than conventional permeable pavements.