Title:
Stephen J. Hayde: Father of the Lightweight Concrete Industry
Author(s):
T.W. Bremner and John Ries
Publication:
Concrete International
Volume:
31
Issue:
8
Appears on pages(s):
35-38
Keywords:
haydite; history; lightweight concrete; lightweight aggregate
DOI:
Date:
8/1/2009
Abstract:
Builders have long recognized the importance of reducing the density of concrete while maintaining its durability and strength. The variability of natural deposits of lightweight volcanic aggregates, however, remained a challenge for almost 2000 years until it was solved by Stephen J. Hayde. Using bricks in a cull pile as inspiration, Hayde developed technologies that could produce a lightweight aggregate of consistent quality. His invention would ultimately find applications in buildings as well as concrete ships.