Applications

Geotechnical

Solite lightweight fill can reduce the weight of compacted geotechnical fills by 50 percent. Engineers who specify Solite have found a solution to reduce settlement, increase stability and reduce lateral load. The keys to success with Solite are its low density, <60 pcf, and its high angle of internal friction, >40°.

Structural grade lightweight aggregate fills possessing reduced density, high internal stability, and high permeability have been extensively specified and used to replace gravel, crushed stone, and natural soils for geotechnical applications at soft soil sites and in backfills. The assured reduction in lateral and gravitational forces has provided economical solutions, lowering construction costs.

Structural Concrete

Concrete made with expanded slate lightweight aggregate is up to 25% lighter than normal weight concrete. When used in a multi-story building, lightweight concrete has a higher UL fire rating than normal weight concrete. Its lower weight can result in smaller columns, beams and foundations, reducing construction costs.

When used for pre-stressed girders and bridge decks, the superior durability of lightweight concrete extends the design life of the structure. Again, construction cost can be reduced with longer spans, fewer piers, and lower transport expenses. Contact us to discuss in-depth benefits such as internal curing, specified density and low chloride ion permeability.

Solite is pleased to partner with the Carolina Stalite company. Our partnership calls for Solite to assume the responsibility for the marketing and sales of Stalite's structural concrete aggregates in Virginia, exclusive of the Washington, DC metropolitan area.

Horticultural

Environmentally friendly, Solite lightweight aggregate is an excellent soil amendment. It is non-toxic, odorless, stable and inert. It will not compress, degrade or decompose. It provides superior drought resistance and acts as a soil insulator, protecting plants from rapid and extreme temperature changes.

Solite retains moisture during dry periods and slowly releases it along with any soluble nutrients for the plant roots. The porous, cellular nature of Solite reduces compaction, increases soil porosity and allows effective plant nutrient management.

Surface Treatment

Solite lightweight aggregate chip seals create superior surface treatment over conventional aggregates. It’s a long lasting, strong solution, offering better skid resistance than other aggregates, even years after application. Because Solite is a dark material and very sound absorbent, it rides and feels like asphalt, but its light weight material eliminates windshield damage complaints/claims by motorists. As an added plus, trucking load/transport costs are lower than conventional aggregates.

For surface maintenance patching, Solite is an excellent source. One ton of Solite equals twice the volume of conventional aggregates, so a little goes a long way. It bonds well to asphalt, creating a long-lasting patch. Additionally, it's a great agent for cold mix pothole repair and for mixing with deicing agents.

Masonry

Concrete Masonry Units (CMUs) made with Solite are up to 30% lighter than heavyweight units of the same size, increasing productivity, decreasing back injuries, and lowering construction costs. Solite CMUs also provide superior insulation, fire resistance, sound absorption, and low shrinkage. With over 50 years of know-how in block making, Solite is ready to help perfect your block_gradation design with a knowledgeable, well-equipped lab.